Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days – Overview

The Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days is a carefully curated journey that combines Greece’s ancient history, world-famous sunsets, and the authentic character of its largest island, Crete, in one seamless luxury experience.

From exploring the iconic landmarks of Athens, to witnessing the legendary Santorini sunset, and discovering the rich Minoan heritage and cuisine of Crete, this itinerary is designed for travelers who want a balanced introduction to Greece without rushing.

✔️ Destinations: Athens • Santorini • Crete
✔️ Overnights: Athens (2) • Santorini (2) • Heraklion, Crete (2)
✔️ Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
✔️ Price from: €1,225 per person

This Athens Santorini Crete itinerary 7 days is ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and travelers seeking culture, scenery, and relaxed island time in one elegant trip.


⭐ Why Choose This Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days

  • Combines ancient Athens, Santorini’s caldera, and Crete’s cultural depth

  • Balanced mix of guided sightseeing and free leisure days

  • Includes Greece’s most iconic experiences in just 7 days

  • Ideal for first-time visitors to Greece

  • High-quality 4★ hotels with seamless transfers

  • Flexible return options to Athens

  • Perfect for couples, families, and small groups

Unlike rushed island-hopping programs, this Athens Santorini Crete itinerary 7 days offers comfort, flow, and meaningful experiences.


🗺️ Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days – Highlights

  • Guided Athens city tour with Acropolis & Acropolis Museum

  • Free time to experience the Santorini sunset in Oia

  • Optional volcano cruises and wine tasting in Santorini

  • Explore Crete’s Minoan heritage and authentic cuisine

  • High-speed ferry connections between destinations

  • Private transfers throughout the journey


📆 Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days – Day by Day Program

Day 1 – Arrival in Athens

Arrival at Athens International Airport, welcome assistance, and private transfer to your hotel.
The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Athens.

Day 2 – Athens City Tour

Half-day guided city tour including panoramic sightseeing and a guided visit to the Acropolis and Acropolis Museum.
Afternoon free to explore Plaka or the city center. Overnight in Athens.

Day 3 – Athens → Santorini

Morning transfer to the port of Piraeus and high-speed ferry to Santorini.
Arrival and private transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Santorini.

Day 4 – Santorini at Leisure

Free day to explore Fira, Oia, and Santorini’s iconic viewpoints.
Optional experiences include volcano cruises, hot springs, and wine tasting tours. Overnight in Santorini.

Day 5 – Santorini → Heraklion (Crete)

Transfer to the port and high-speed ferry to Heraklion, Crete.
Arrival and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 6 – Crete at Leisure

Free day to explore Crete at your own pace.
Optional visits include Knossos Palace, local food experiences, beaches near Elounda, or a boat trip to Spinalonga. Overnight in Heraklion.

crete - knosos

Day 7 – Departure

Breakfast and free time until your transfer to Heraklion airport or port.
Optional return to Athens by flight or overnight ferry available upon request.


💰 Prices & Travel Dates – Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days

Operating Period: 01/04/2026 – 11/10/2026
Departure Days: Daily
Blackout Dates: 11/04, 27/04, 29/04 & 30/04
For Christmas, New Year, and Orthodox Easter departures, availability may vary.

💛 Price per Person – First Class (4★)

Arrival DatesDouble / TwinTripleSingleChild
April€1225€1110€1885€580
May€1335€1190€2100€585
June – September€1405€1240€2215€600
October€1335€1190€2100€585

🏨 Hotels Included – Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days

Athens:
Athens Tiare Hotel • Polis Grand • The Athenian Callirhoe • Airotel Parthenon • Brown Acropol

Santorini:
Anassa Hotel • El Greco Resort & Spa • Santorini Palace • Nefeles Luxury Suites • Delion View Hotel • On the Cliff Suites

Heraklion (Crete):
Olive Green Hotel • Lato Boutique Hotel • Castello City Hotel • ibis Styles Heraklion Central

(Hotels subject to availability at time of booking)


✅ What’s Included

  • Accommodation on BB basis: 2 nights in Athens, 2 nights in Santorini & 2 nights in Crete (4★ hotels)
  • Athens city tour with Acropolis and Acropolis Museum (SIC basis), including English-speaking guide
  • Private transfers with English-speaking driver throughout the itinerary
  • High-speed ferry tickets: Piraeus → Santorini and Santorini → Heraklion (economy class)
  • Meet & Greet service for tour briefing and orientation by an English-speaking representative
  • All entrance and admission fees for included sites and museums
  • All applicable taxes

❌ What’s Not Included

  • Any meals other than those mentioned above
  • Drinks during included meals
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Porterage at hotels
  • Personal expenses
  • Anything not explicitly mentioned in the “Included” section

Notes

  • Ferry schedules are subject to change without prior notice, and the itinerary may not be possible on certain dates at the beginning and end of the season
  • An overnight accommodation tax applies in Greece and is payable directly at the hotels:
    • €3.00 per room / night for 3★ hotels
    • €7.00 per room / night for 4★ hotels
    • €10.00 per room / night for 5★ hotels
  • Any special request for upgrades is subject to availability and may incur an additional charge
  • Entrance fees to sites and museums are set by the Greek government and may change; prices are based on rates valid as of November 1st, 2019
  • All prices include VAT at 24%. In case of a VAT change, prices will be adjusted accordingly

✨ A Personal Touch

At Elite Greece Travels, we created this Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days for travelers who want a meaningful first introduction to Greece without feeling rushed.

This journey blends history, iconic landscapes, and authentic island experiences, carefully paced to let you truly enjoy every destination.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Athens Santorini Crete Itinerary 7 Days

Is this Athens Santorini Crete itinerary 7 days suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. It’s designed specifically for first-time travelers who want Greece’s highlights in a short, well-paced trip.

Are ferries included in the itinerary?
Yes. High-speed ferry tickets between Athens–Santorini and Santorini–Crete are included.

Can I return to Athens at the end of the tour?
Yes. A domestic flight or overnight ferry back to Athens can be arranged upon request.

Is the itinerary customizable?
Absolutely. Extra nights, hotel upgrades, private tours, or alternative routes can be arranged.

Are guided tours included?
The Athens city tour is guided. Island days are free, with optional experiences available.

Elite Greece Travels – Luxury Tours in Greece, santorini