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Greece Multi-Adventure: Crete & Santorini

9 days  |  11 days with Athens extension  |  From $5,299 $4,799 before flights($500 off)

Physical activity
Group size
5–22 travelers

Nonstop island thrills from sea to summit

Prepare for a Greek odyssey across two of the country’s most stunning islands. Begin in Crete, Greece's largest island, a land of rugged mountains, dramatic coastlines, and rich culinary traditions. Here, each day brings a new thrill: indulge in ambrosia-like olive oil; hike from the top of Samaria Gorge, Europe's second-largest canyon; cycle along dramatic cliffsides; then island-hop to breathtaking Santorini, a small volcanic island with some of the world's most stunning vistas. In this postcard-perfect setting, snorkel in the caldera's azure waters, soak in volcanic hot springs, and hike the spectacular rim from Fira to Oia. In between all that adventuring, you’ll catch your breath dining on local Greek specialties, exploring pristine coves, and discovering some of the most picturesque villages Greece’s islands have to offer—maybe even with a glass of local white wine while admiring the sunset over the Aegean.

What's included

  • 7 nights in handpicked hotels
  • Private bus for local transfers
  • Flights from Athens to Chania and Santorini to Athens
  • Ferry from Heraklion to Santorini
  • Boat rides from Agia Roumeli to Hóra Sfakíon (or Sougia) & between Santorini and Thirasia
  • 7 breakfasts
  • 2 lunches
  • 4 dinners with beer or wine
  • 1 olive oil tasting, 1 coffee & pastry tasting, and 1 bread tasting
  • An expert Greek Tour Director
  • Local guides for all adventure activities and select experiences
  • Safety equipment and briefings for all activities
  • Select guided sightseeing tours
  • Hiking, E-mountain biking, snorkeling & swimming in hot springs

Why you'll love it

  • Indulge in Crete’s UNESCO-protected olive oils & wines
  • Conquer 10 miles hiking downhill through Samaria Gorge
  • E-bike across a scenic stretch of Crete’s White Mountains near Chania
  • Boat and snorkel around Santorini, the island believed to be the real Atlantis
  • Walk the rim of Santorini’s signature caldera from Fira to Oia
  • Hike up the volcanic trails of Santorini's quieter sister island, Thirasia

Itinerary

Overnight flight

Day 1: Fly to Athens

Your journey officially starts now! Double-check you’ve packed everything you need (especially your passport and your bathing suit) and head to the airport for your overnight flight to Greece.

Athens

Day 2: Arrival in Athens

Included meal: Welcome dinner

You’ll feel like you’re in Greece the moment you spot the Acropolis perched proudly on its pedestal over the city. After touching down in Athens, you’ll transfer by private bus to your hotel in town, about a 45-minute ride away. Don’t unpack your bags too much—you’re only spending one night here before setting off on your adventure-packed trip to Crete and Santorini.

Today’s highlights
  • Meet an EF representative at the airport.
  • Transfer to your hotel in Athens and spend time getting acquainted with the city.
  • Toast with a glass of wine, beer, or a soft drink while you get to know your fellow travelers and Tour Director during a Welcome Orientation.
  • Enjoy a Welcome Dinner and keep the bonding going with the group.

Note: Airport transfers are included for travelers who book flights with EF Adventures. If you book your own flights, airport transfers may be available for a fee upon request.

Athens extension

A pre-extension is a great way to get a head start on beating jet lag before your Multi-Adventure tour in Crete and Santorini begins. The Greek capital of Athens, which has rightfully earned the reputation as the historical capital of Europe, is packed with must-see landmarks that are worth exploring before setting off for the islands. In Athens, you'll discover the city's inner workings and rich history, delving deep into the heart of Ancient Greece. Marvel at iconic sites like the Acropolis, perched high above the city, and the impressive Temple of Olympian Zeus, one of the largest temples of ancient times. Whether you're captivated by ancient ruins, fascinated by mythology, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of a modern city with a whole lot of history, you'll quickly see why Athens is considered a world wonder.

Overnight flight

Day 1: Fly to Athens

Board your overnight flight to Athens, Greece, whose central, hilly Plaka neighborhood is like walking through a living museum with ancient temples at every turn.

Athens

Day 2: Arrival in Athens & welcome drink

You’ve made it to Athens, one of the world’s oldest cities that’s been inhabited since the 11th millennium B.C.E. But forget the facts for today—you’ve had a long flight and probably want to rest up before the exploring starts. Transfer about 45 minutes from the airport to your hotel, then stretch your legs on a stroll around the neighborhood before you cheers to the trip ahead with a welcome drink.

Today’s highlights
  • Meet an EF representative at the Athens airport.
  • Transfer to your hotel in Athens to check in before heading out for some fresh air and exploring.
  • Raise a glass to the start of your Greek getaway with a welcome drink.

Note: Transfer from the airport to the hotel is only available to travelers who book round-trip flights with EF Adventures.

Day 3: Walking tour of Athens & optional home-hosted dinner

Included meal: Breakfast

It’s hard to break down 3,400 years of history in one morning, but you’ll get an overview of the highlights on your tour today. You'll set off from Monastiraki Square, where elements of old and new Athens collide, and explore the landmark-heavy Plaka district—known as the “neighborhood of the gods”—on your way up to the Acropolis. The rest of the afternoon is free! Head back to your hotel on the bus or ask your guide for a lunch recommendation—almost every spot in Plaka shows off spectacular views of the ancient sights. In the evening, join the optional home-hosted dinner or continue exploring on your own (sipping cocktails at a rooftop bar overlooking the Acropolis is never a bad idea).

Today’s highlights
  • Brush up on your knowledge of ancient Greece with a local expert leading the way through Athens’ main squares, markets, and sights like the Acropolis.
  • Enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Plaka with a late lunch at a restaurant of your choosing in the bustling historical center.
  • Join the optional home-hosted dinner or head out on the town for a night of exploring on your own.

Day 4: Optional walking food tour of Athens & meet up with your group

Included meals: Breakfast, Welcome dinner

The rest of your group arrives today, so you can spend the morning lingering over coffee in a scenic square, crossing another museum off your list, or taking part in an optional walking food tour of Athens to discover some of the city’s best spots to find delicacies like baklava. Then it’s time to get to know your fellow travelers during a Welcome Dinner—your first of many group meals on the trip.

Today’s highlights
  • Explore Athens at your leisure during a free morning.
  • Discover local delicacies on an optional walking food tour in Psyrri.
  • Meet up with your group for a Welcome Dinner to kick off the start of your Multi-Adventure tour.

Note: While today is officially Day 4 of your trip, when you meet up with the rest of the Greece Multi-Adventure: Crete & Santorini group, they will only be on Day 2. For consistency, once you join the others, you will also be on Day 2.

Reviews

5 out of 5 stars

Overall average based on 10 traveler ratings

Travelers say

Travelers absolutely love this Greece adventure tour, praising the perfect blend of active exploration and cultural experiences. The hiking experiences in Samaria Gorge and from Fira to Oia in Santorini, mountain e-biking in Crete, and the catamaran sunset cruise were consistently highlighted as unforgettable highlights, with many appreciating the balance of morning adventures and afternoon free time. Though some travelers mentioned they would have enjoyed more water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, the exceptional tour directors, luxurious 5-star accommodations, and delicious Greek cuisine created an overwhelmingly positive experience that left travelers eager to book their next EF Adventure.

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Travelers say

Travelers absolutely love this Greece adventure tour, praising the perfect blend of active exploration and cultural experiences. The hiking experiences in Samaria Gorge and from Fira to Oia in Santorini, mountain e-biking in Crete, and the catamaran sunset cruise were consistently highlighted as unforgettable highlights, with many appreciating the balance of morning adventures and afternoon free time. Though some travelers mentioned they would have enjoyed more water activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, the exceptional tour directors, luxurious 5-star accommodations, and delicious Greek cuisine created an overwhelmingly positive experience that left travelers eager to book their next EF Adventure.

AI-generated summary from traveler reviews

Was this summary helpful?

Showing 1-6 of 10 traveler reviews

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Fabulous Trip

5 out of 5 stars

2nd-time traveler Anonymous, traveled in Oct 2025

10 people found this review helpful

We had an awesome trip to Greece and the islands of Crete and Santorini! Our tour guide Kalli was knowledgeable, friendly and made our trip fabulous! This trip has a packed schedule of activities and Kalli organized it perfectly. We wish we had one more day to explore on our...

Great way to see Greece up close and personal!

5 out of 5 stars

1st-time traveler Kimberly, traveled in Oct 2025

9 people found this review helpful

I chose this trip because I enjoy hiking, biking and exploring nature. This trip had all that and more. Our guide, Georgia, was personable and detailed. She kept us on track and gave recommendations for activities, restaurants or whatever we were looking for. The hiking and...

My first adventure tour but not my last

5 out of 5 stars

5th-time traveler Greg, traveled in Sep 2025

7 people found this review helpful

We have done 7 tours with Go Ahead but when we saw EF Adventures start up we said that was for us. We were not disappointed. Hiking down Samaria Gorge was tough but beautiful. Biking through Crete was awesome with incredible views and a fantastic lunch and swim after. The...

Breathtaking Adventures in Greece!

5 out of 5 stars

1st-time traveler Lori, traveled in Sep 2025

10 people found this review helpful

I just returned from the EF Adventure in Greece, which included three hikes and an E-Bike Mountain ride. I found the excursions to be challenging and exciting. The Samaria Gorge was an absolutely beautiful hike that took my group 4-5 hours to complete. We did take our time,...

A DREAM

5 out of 5 stars

1st-time traveler Maggie, traveled in Sep 2025

10 people found this review helpful

As a 1st-time solo older traveler, I feared that I would not fit in or be included in the group dynamics. On the contrary, my experience was 200% over the top in every way. EF made every effort to organize, coordinate and communicate from my first 'outreach' to 'the last leg'...

Greece Adventure Tour

5 out of 5 stars

2nd-time traveler Nick, traveled in Sep 2025

3 people found this review helpful

Our Greece Adventure Tour with EF Adventure’s was the trip of a lifetime. Our guide, Vick, was incredible. His knowledge of Athens, the islands, the Greek history made every stop unforgettable. From hiking, gorges and mountain biking in Crete to sailing on a catamaran in...

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Showing 1–6 of 10 reviews

Handpicked accommodations

From boutique hotels to 5-star luxury retreats, our accommodations are curated with the expert eye and attention to detail that come from 60 years of travel experience, always prioritizing authenticity. We select high-quality properties that balance comfort, location, sustainability, and local charm. From bustling city centers to serene countryside and picturesque small towns, each hotel is chosen to complement your adventure’s unique style. While the specific accommodations may vary based on your travel dates, you can always count on staying at fantastic properties that meet our standards for quality and character.

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A dining table set for four with plates of food and wine glasses, overlooking a cityscape with trees and buildings in the background.

Athens - The Athenaeum Luxury Hotel

Close to the Acropolis, The Athenaeum Luxury Hotel offers a fresh take on Athenian hospitality. This 5-star hotel features thoughtfully designed rooms, some showcasing Pentelic marble—a nod to the city's ancient architecture....

Luxurious seaside resort at sunset, featuring a glowing infinity pool, modern architecture, and distant islands silhouetted against a colorful sky.

Chania region - Isla Brown Chania Resort

Hugging the coastline just outside historic Chania, Isla Brown Chania Resort is a slice of Cretan paradise. This sprawling retreat has four outdoor pools, each with a different view of the Aegean Sea. Rooms decorated in earthy...

Rooftop pool with lounge chairs and umbrellas overlooking a marina, historic fortress, and the sea on a clear day.

Heraklion - Aquila Atlantis Hotel

Rising above Heraklion's harbor, Aquila Atlantis Hotel serves as a modern-day lighthouse for luxury seekers. This urban oasis offers rooms and suites with a touch of understated elegance, overlooking the city or harbor. The...

A serene evening view of a luxury resort with white, arched architecture and a glowing pool, surrounded by loungers under a deep blue sky.

Santorini - Orama Hotel & Spa

Perched on the edge of Fira, Orama Hotel & Spa gives you a front-row seat to Santorini's famous caldera views. This island retreat combines Cycladic architecture with minimalist chic, creating a sanctuary of whitewashed...

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Weather

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Athens, Greece

Weather averages

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54°56°61°67°76°85°91°90°83°73°65°57°44°45°48°53°61°69°74°74°69°60°55°48°54°56°61°67°76°85°91°90°83°73°65°57°44°45°48°53°61°69°74°74°69°60°55°48°JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecJFMAMJJASOND

Heraklion, Greece

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58°58°61°67°74°81°85°84°81°74°67°61°49°49°51°55°62°68°72°73°70°64°59°53°58°58°61°67°74°81°85°84°81°74°67°61°49°49°51°55°62°68°72°73°70°64°59°53°JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecJFMAMJJASOND

Chania, Greece

Weather averages

Temperature scale

57°58°61°66°73°80°84°84°80°73°67°60°49°49°50°54°60°67°72°72°68°62°58°52°57°58°61°66°73°80°84°84°80°73°67°60°49°49°50°54°60°67°72°72°68°62°58°52°JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecJFMAMJJASOND
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