Crete and the Athens Riviera Long Stay- March trip
March 5 – 26, 2027
Travac is pleased to be offering an exceptional winter program to Crete and the Athens Riviera for 2027! Experience some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean while diving into Greek antiquity and the wonders of its fascinating history.
Your holiday begins with 4 nights in the Athens Riviera. Stretching for approximately 70 kilometres along the sparkling Saronic Gulf, the Riviera is where cosmopolitan elegance meets the beauty of the Mediterranean. This magnificent coastline is home to golden beaches with lovely pedestrian promenades, waterfront cafés, and restaurants as well as several iconic landmarks such as The Temple of Poseidon and the thermal Lake Vouliagmeni. The Athens Riviera is only a short tram or bus ride to downtown Athens, allowing you to combine the splendours of the city with the relaxing pleasures of the seaside.
After your time in the Athens Riviera, you will continue to the island of Crete where you will spend the following 14 days at leisure. The largest and most diverse of Greece’s islands, Crete is home to some of the Mediterranean’s most spectacular beaches, picturesque mountain landscapes, villages brimming with local charm, as well as extraordinary archeological and historical monuments. Crete is widely regarded as the birthplace of Europe’s first advanced civilization, the Minoans. More than 4,000 years ago, the Minoans built sophisticated palaces, developed extensive trade networks, and created remarkable works of art. Your stay in Crete allows ample time to explore the treasures of the island while indulging in its fabulous culinary delights.
You will then travel to the heart of Athens for three nights in the city before returning to Ottawa. Optional tours ($) will be offered throughout your time in Greece as well as the services of an experienced Travac Tours Director.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Today you will meet your Travac Tours Director at the Carlingwood Mall and will be transferred from Ottawa to Montreal airport by private motorcoach. From Montreal, you will fly directly to Athens. Our office staff will be happy to provide you with flight details.
Day 2
Arrival in Greece
Upon arrival in Athens, you will be transferred to your hotel in the Athens Riviera by a private motorcoach. Your Travac Tours Director will assist you with check-in upon arrival at the hotel. Once you are checked in, the remainder of your day will be free to relax and acquaint yourself with the area.
Hotel for the next 4 nights: Ace Hotel & Swim Club or similar (B)
Day 2 - 6
Athens Riviera
Your time in the beautiful Athens Riviera is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Stretching along the Saronic Gulf coastline from the southern regions of Athens down to Cape Sounion, the riviera offers stunning beaches and lovely waterfront promenades to enjoy, all while being a short tram or public bus ride away from downtown Athens. Optional tours ($) will be offered during your time in the Athens Riviera, payable in cash (in Euros) upon arrival in Greece. Your Travac Tours Director will offer plenty of suggestions on how to make the most of your time here. (B)
Day 6
Transfer to Crete
This morning you will check out of your hotel and will be transferred by motor coach to the Athens airport. From Athens you will fly to Crete. Upon arrival in Crete, you will be transferred to your hotel where your Travac Tours Director will assist you with check-in. Your Travac Tours Director will then offer you an optional orientation walk of the neighbourhood.
Hotel for the next 13 nights: Hotel Samaira or similar (B, D)
Day 6 - 19
Chania, Crete
Crete is Greece’s largest island and an exceptional holiday paradise. Its rich history spans more than five millennia, from the remarkable Minoan civilization- the first advanced civilization in Europe- to centuries of Roman, Venetian, and Ottoman rule. Today, the island’s archaeological treasures, historic towns, and enduring traditions reflect this extraordinary cultural legacy. Crete also boasts some of the Mediterranean’s finest beaches: Balos Lagoon with its brilliant blue water; Vai Beach where Europe’s largest natural palm forest meets the sea; palm-lined Preveli Beach situated at the mouth of the Kourtaliotiko Gorge; and Elafonissi Beach, famous for its pink-tinted sand and warm turquoise waters. While in Crete, you will have the opportunity to explore all the best of the island’s natural beauty, fascinating attractions, charming towns and villages, and incredible cuisine. Optional tours ($) will be offered during your time here. (B, D)
Day 19
Transfer to Athens
Today you will check out of your hotel and will be transferred by motor coach to the Crete airport. From Crete you will fly to Athens. Upon arrival in Athens, you will be transferred to your city hotel where your Travac Tours Director will assist you with check-in.
Hotel for the next 3 nights: NJV Athens Plaza Hotel or similar (B)
Day 20
City Tour of Athens and Free Afternoon
This morning you will embark on a city tour of Athens with a local guide. You will have the opportunity to take in some of Athens’ most iconic sites, including the Acropolis, the Parthenon, and the Acropolis Museum. Your afternoon will be free to enjoy the city at your leisure. Your Travac Tours Director will have plenty of suggestions on how to make the most of your time in this city of gods and philosophers. (B)
Day 21
Free Day
Today is a free day to enjoy in Athens. Your Travac Tours Director will have plenty of suggestions on how to make the most of your time today. (B)
Day 22
Return to Canada
Today you will check out of your hotel and will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Canada. Upon arrival in Montreal, you will be transferred by private motor coach back to Ottawa (Carlingwood Mall). Your Travac Tours Director will keep you informed of your flight schedule. (B)
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Athens Riviera - Ace Hotel & Swim Club Athens or similar
Hotel Address
Artemisiou 1, Glifada 166 75Athens, Greece
+30 21 0022 0188
Crete - Samaria Chania Town or similar
Hotel Address
Kidonias 69, Chania 731 35Chania, Greece
+30 2821 038600
Athens - NJV Athens Plaza or similar
Hotel Address
2, Vasileos Georgiou A, Syntagma square str, Athina 105 64Athens, Greece
+30 21 0335 2400