Jewels of Athens & Crete

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply

• Fast overnight ferry with a private cabin to and from Crete

• 10 Nights quality hotel accommodation
• 2 Nights on the overnight ferry between Greece and Crete in a private cabin with ensuite bathroom

• Enjoy daily breakfast

• English speaking guide for Athens, Chania, Heraklion & Arkadi tours
• Entrance fees at Acropolis, new Acropolis Museum, Arkadi Monastery, Knossos & Heraklion Archaeological Museum

• Transportation by private A/C vehicles
• All ferries 

• Return airport and ferry transfers

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes. (Does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location. (See checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class. (See checkout for details)
• Preferred Airline: Fly with a preferred airline. (See checkout for details)
• Please note: Extra charges may apply. See the Important Info section and checkout cart for fees and details.

Today, depart from Australia (or New Zealand) to Athens!


Please note: Due to flight scheduling and availability, some customers may be required to depart on day 2, to arrive on day 2. Some customers may depart on Day 0. Flight times will be indicated on your final documentation, which you will receive 4-6 weeks prior to departure.

Meals included: In-Flight

Welcome to Athens!

As you arrive at Athens International Airport, meet with your tour representative and be transferred to your hotel for check in. If you are too early for check in, luggage can be stored at the hotel until your room is ready. The remainder of your day is at leisure to discover Athens.

Overnight: Hotel Novus or similar, Athens

Meals included: None

Begin your day with an exploration of Athens!

After breakfast enjoy an Athens city highlights tour, including a visit to the world-famous Acropolis. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a high rocky outcrop above the city of Athens. It’s home to several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance, the most famous being the Parthenon. Whilst here, enjoy a visit to the new Acropolis Museum. In the afternoon, transfer to Piraeus to catch an overnight ferry en route to Crete.

Overnight: Superfast Ferries, Minoan Lines or similar (Private Cabin with Ensuite)

Meals included: Breakfast

Wake up this morning on the picturesque island of Crete! After being transferred to your hotel, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, embracing the charm of this coastal gem. 

Overnight: Hotel Kriti or similar, Chania

Meals included: Breakfast

Step out for a guided walking tour of Chania after breakfast. Wander through the enchanting alleys of the Old Town and explore the captivating Old Port district. With the remainder of the day free, immerse yourself in the diverse offerings of Chania, from lively tavernas and live music to intriguing museums and pristine beaches.

Overnight: Hotel Kriti or similar, Chania

Meals included: Breakfast

Today beckons with endless possibilities to explore Chania and its surroundings at leisure. If you are feeling adventurous, perhaps take a day trip out to hike through the renowned Samaria Gorge, one of Europe's largest gorges, or simply unwind on a sun-kissed beach. The day is yours to craft as you desire. 

Overnight: Hotel Kriti or similar, Chania

Meals included: Breakfast

Embark on a journey to Rethymno following breakfast. Your day unfolds with a visit to the historic Arkadi Monastery, nestled on the slopes of Mt Psiloritis. Delve into its rich history and architectural splendour before continuing to Rethymno. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, indulging in the allure of this charming town. 

Overnight: Hotel Olympic or similar, Rethymno

Meals included: Breakfast

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Rethymno over the next day. Explore its elegant architecture, picturesque port, and inviting beaches. Venture into the surrounding region to discover hidden gems like the Ideon Cave and scenic gorges. 

Overnight: Hotel Olympic or similar, Rethymno

Meals included: Breakfast

Continue your exploration of Rethymno at leisure, soaking in its enchanting ambiance and myriad attractions. Whether you choose to stroll along its historic streets or relax on its sun-drenched shores, let Rethymno captivate your senses.

Overnight: Hotel Olympic or similar, Rethymno

Meals included: Breakfast

Set forth to Heraklion after breakfast. Today's adventures include a visit to the legendary Knossos palace, one of the most important and famous archaeological sites in Greece and a key monument of the Minoan civilization. It is located on the island of Crete, near the modern city of Heraklion. The palace is considered Europe's oldest city and serves as a crucial link to understanding the early history of the European continent. This is followed by exploration of Heraklion and its renowned archaeological museum. Conclude your day with a transfer to your hotel in Heraklion, where leisure awaits.

Overnight: Hotel Castello City or similar, Heraklion

Meals included: Breakfast

Savour a free day in Heraklion, the vibrant capital of Crete. Discover its rich history, from the imposing Fortress of Heraklion to the tranquillity of nearby monasteries. Alternatively, bask in the sun at one of Heraklion's pristine beaches. The choice is yours to make the most of your time in this captivating city.

Overnight: Hotel Castello City or similar, Heraklion

Meals included: Breakfast

Continue your exploration of Heraklion at leisure, indulging in its cultural treasures and scenic delights. Whether you opt for further historical discoveries or seaside relaxation, let Heraklion enchant you with its allure. In the afternoon, board an overnight ferry en route back to Athens.

Overnight: Superfast Ferries, Minoan Lines or similar (Private Cabin with Ensuite)

Meals included: Breakfast

Wake up this morning in the incredible Athens, spend the day at leisure uncovering the historical city and reminiscing on the memories made on the trip of a lifetime.

Overnight: Hotel Novus or similar, Athens

Meals included: Breakfast

Conclude your memorable journey with a final breakfast before heading to Athens airport for your departure flight. Reflect on your experiences as you prepare to depart from this ancient city.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some flights may arrive in Australia +1 day later.

After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase.

 
Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.

 
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.

 
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.

 
CANCELLATION POLICY
Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.
 
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with.
 
We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.
 
Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated). 

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 15th of October 2025.

 
This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share. 

 
Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement of $1,700 applies. 
Please note: accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.

 
Departure Dates
March: 19 
April: *09, 23 
May: 14, 28 
June: **11 
July: **16
August: ^13 
September: ^10, **24 
October: ^08, 15

Please note: see checkout for live dates and availability.

 
Surcharges
Please note: 
• dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $400 per person.
• dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $600 per person.
• dates/months with a ** incur a high season surcharge of $1000 per person.

Departure Cities
Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, Perth *Adelaide, *Auckland

 
Departure City Surcharges
Adelaide & Brisbane: $300 per person
Auckland: $500 per person

 
International Full-Service Airline(s) Used
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Airlines: Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Qantas Airways, Lufthansa, Swiss Airways, Austrian Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Air France, KLM, Oman Air, British Airways, Scandinavian Airlines, Virgin Australia plus codeshare partners (subject to availability).
Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation. 

 
Missed Flights 
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements. 

 
Preferred Airline surcharge
• Cabin Class: Economy Class
• Emirates: $370 per person 
• Qatar: $315 per person 
Please note: 
• Preferred airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Preferred airline refers to the marketing carrier and could include codeshare partners.

 
Arrive Early Options
Athen, Greece - $300 per person
High season dates: up to $700 per person, subject to availability 
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• You may book a date to arrive early via our website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season arrive early can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
6th December 2024 - 31st January 2025
28th March 2025 - 27th April 2025
16th June 2025 - 20th July 2025
15th September 2025 - 12th October 2025
1st December 2025 - 31st January2026

 
Stay Behind Options
Athens, Greece - $300 per person
High season dates: up to $700 per person, subject to availability 
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• A high season stay behind can be purchased for up to $700 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
28th March 2025 - 27th April 2025
16th June 2025 - 20th July 2025
15th September 2025 - 12th October 2025
1st December 2025 - 31st January2026

 
Stopover Packages 
* Dubai
Twin share: $1,000 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1,500 one way
* Dubai
Twin share: $1,000 per person/one way
Solo Traveller: $1,500 one way
Includes:
• 2 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Return airport transfers 
Please note: 
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• In the event that a purchased stopover package and a purchased preferred airline upgrade are not compatible, you will have the option to receive a refund for the preferred airline upgrade or be offered an alternative stopover city option, e.g if you choose to fly with Singapore Airlines you cannot stopover in Dubai.
• Blackout dates apply to flights departing between the below date ranges:
Doha Grand Prix: 28 November to 2nd December 2024
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (for Dubai): 04 December to 10 December 2024

 
Flight Class Upgrades
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed

Accommodation Used:
3-4 Star Properties (Self-Rated)
Athens: Hotel Novus or similar
Chania: Hotel Kriti or similar
Rethymno: Hotel Olympic or similar
Heraklion: Hotel Castello City or similar

 
Athens to Chania/Herkalion to Athens ferry: Superfast Ferries, Minoan Lines or similar.
 
Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.
 
Extra Nights
Not available
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Child Policy
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for children 12 years old and over.
Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed.
 
Triple Share
Not available
 
Bedding Configuration
Double or twin (subject to availability).
 

Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 36 per vehicle.

• Visa fees and requirements 
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer
• Optional gratuities/tipping 
• Optional activities/tours 
• Personal expenses
• Travel insurance
• Mandatory city tax
• Accommodation Tax

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide: 
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 
 
Tour Leader: 
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 
 
Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured. 

 
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Athens & Crete
The climate in Athens, Greece, typically ranges from mild to hot throughout the year. Summer temperatures often soar above 30°C, while winters are relatively mild, with temperatures averaging around 10°C. In contrast, Crete, being further south, experiences hotter summers with temperatures often exceeding 35°C and milder winters around 12°C. Both locations benefit from a Mediterranean climate characterised by dry summers and mild, wetter winters.

 
FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points:
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.

 
Passport Validity:
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.

 
COACH TOUR
Meals:
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.
 
Luggage:
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.

 
OTHER
Mobility:
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.
 
Fitness Level Required:
A Leisurely level of fitness will be required. 
 
Leisurely is described as Light walking, including up multiple stairs, and occasional hiking, may involve uneven surfaces. Able to travel unassisted and get on and off vehicles and small boats. Suitable for most fitness levels and mobility. 
 
Please note: If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.

 
Gratuities / Tipping:
Land
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is €5 per person per day per person per day. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour. 
 
Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.

 
Sightseeing:
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).

 
Shopping: 
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. 
Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.

A tourist visa is not required for Europe for stays up to 90 days if travelling on an Australian or New Zealand passport.
Important: 
• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.
• Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.
Please note: 
• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

Embarking on your next trip is exciting, and while you hope the unexpected does not happen, it is best to be prepared. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance when making your booking. Whether it’s a potential medical emergency, a flight cancellation, a delayed suitcase, or an unforeseen event, it's important to ensure you're adequately protected. For more information or advice visit https://www.tripadeal.com.au/travel-insurance

Voluntary Changes
This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.
• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
 
Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
 
Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.