8-Day Cultural and Coastal Journey from Athens to Chania via Ferry

Day 1: Historic Athens

Athens, Greece on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mokka Specialty Coffee

Begin your Athens adventure with authentic Greek coffee and baked pastries in a popular, cozy cafe known for its quality brews.
EUR5, 1h

9:30am

Acropolis Museum Visit

Explore artefacts from the Acropolis in a modern, architecturally impressive space open from 8am to 8pm, providing a rich context for your upcoming visit.
EUR10, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ta Karamanlidika tou Fani

Enjoy traditional Greek meze with cured meats and cheeses in an authentic deli-style setting, popular with locals and tourists alike.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the Acropolis

See the iconic ancient citadel including monuments like the Parthenon and Erechtheion. Open from 8am to 8pm in June.
EUR20, 2h

4:00pm

Walk through Plaka

Wander through the charming Plaka district’s narrow streets, full of shops, cafés, and great photo opportunities with Acropolis views.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Strofi

Dine at this restaurant featuring spectacular views of the illuminated Acropolis, serving contemporary Greek dishes with local ingredients.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 2: Ancient Athens & Markets

Athens, Greece on June 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ergon House

Enjoy a fresh Greek organic breakfast buffet with an assortment of traditional and local delicacies.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Ancient Agora Visit

Explore the ancient marketplace with the well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus, open 8am to 8pm in June.
EUR8, 2h

12:00pm

Shopping at Monastiraki Flea Market

Discover antiques, souvenirs, and local crafts as you explore this lively market area with a vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at O Thanasis

Taste authentic Greek souvlaki and grilled meats in a casual restaurant near Monastiraki Square, a local favourite.
EUR12, 1h

2:30pm

National Archaeological Museum

Visit Greece’s largest archaeological museum exhibiting extensive artefacts dating back millennia. Open 8am to 8pm.
EUR10, 2h

6:00pm

Relax in National Garden

Enjoy a peaceful walk or rest in the lovely National Garden near Syntagma Square, a green haven in the city.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Kuzina

Sample fusion Greek cuisine on a rooftop terrace with views of the Acropolis brilliantly lit at night.
EUR30, 1.5h

Day 3: Athens to Chania by Ferry

Athens to Chania, Greece on June 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast near Piraeus Port

Enjoy a light breakfast at a café close to Piraeus port to prepare for your ferry journey.
EUR8, 0.5h

8:30am

Board Ferry to Chania

Catch the morning ferry from Piraeus to Chania. Ferry journeys take approximately 9-10 hours crossing the Aegean Sea, offering scenic views.
EUR50-70, 9h30m

6:00pm

Arrival and Check-in at Chania Hotel

Arrive in Chania port, then transfer to your accommodation to rest and refresh after the ferry ride.
Varies, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Tamam Restaurant

Enjoy a delightful first dinner in Chania with authentic Cretan dishes known for vibrant flavours and fresh ingredients.
EUR20, 1.5h

Day 4: Chania Old Town

Chania, Greece on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Koukouvagia

Delight in delicious coffee and artisanal breakfast treats in a charming café within the old town.
EUR10, 1h

9:30am

Mix of History and Culture

Explore Chania’s Venetian harbour, lighthouse, and the old town’s maze of streets filled with shops and museums.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Well of the Turk

Savour traditional Cretan dishes in a quiet courtyard setting, ideal for authentic local cuisine.
EUR25, 1h

1:30pm

Archaeological Museum of Chania

Visit the museum showcasing artefacts from the Minoan period to Byzantine times. Open 8:30am–3pm weekdays and 10am–3pm weekends.
EUR6, 1.5h

4:00pm

Stroll the Venetian Harbour Waterfront

Unwind with a coffee or a drink as you enjoy sunset views in the historic harbour area.
Free, 1h

8:00pm

Dinner at Salis

Enjoy modern Cretan cuisine paired with exquisite local wines in a scenic harbour location.
EUR35, 1.5h

Day 5: Balos Lagoon Day Trip

Chania, Greece on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a filling breakfast to prepare for a day trip to Balos Lagoon.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Boat Tour to Balos Lagoon

Depart early for a scenic boat trip to Balos Beach, prized for its turquoise water and sandy shores. Tours run until late afternoon.
EUR40-60, 7h

4:00pm

Return and rest

Relax after your trip and refresh at your hotel.
Included, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at La Bodega

Sample tapas-style dishes with local wines, perfect for a casual and sociable evening near the harbour.
EUR30, 1.5h

Day 6: Elafonissi Beach

Chania to Elafonissi, Greece on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast at your hotel for a full day of beach fun.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Elafonissi Beach

Travel approximately 1.5 hours to this famous beach known for its pink sand and shallow turquoise waters.
Car hire approx. EUR40/day, 1h30m

10:00am

Relax at Elafonissi

Spend the day swimming and sunbathing in one of Crete’s most beautiful natural settings.
Free, 5h

3:00pm

Lunch at Elafonissi Canteen

Enjoy fresh seafood and simple Cretan dishes near the beach.
EUR20, 1h

4:30pm

Return to Chania

Drive back to your hotel for rest and relaxation.
Included, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at To Stachi

Taste home-style Cretan cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
EUR25, 1.5h

Day 7: Chania Culture & Farewell

Chania, Greece on June 14, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at His Queen’s Letters

Enjoy artisanal coffee and creative breakfast dishes in this elegant café.
EUR10, 1h

10:00am

Visit Maritime Museum of Crete

Discover the island’s rich maritime history. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm.
EUR4, 1h

11:30am

Explore Venetian Fortifications

Walk along the historic fortifications and visit Firkas Fortress for panoramic views.
Free, 1.5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Yannis Taverna

Indulge in grilled fish and fresh salads at this beloved local eatery.
EUR20, 1h

2:30pm

Botanical Park of Crete

Explore exotic and native flora in a serene garden open till 5pm.
EUR10, 2h

6:30pm

Free time in Chania Old Town

Enjoy your last evening shopping or relaxing with a coffee in the old town.
Free, 1.5h

8:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Captain’s Restaurant

Celebrate with fresh seafood and sunset harbour views in a memorable dining experience.
EUR40, 2h

Day 8: Departure

Chania, Greece on June 15, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast before your journey home.
Included, 0.5h

8:00am

Transfer to Chania Airport

Take a taxi to the airport for your departure, allowing ample time for check-in.
EUR20, 1h