Cox and Kings Wonders of Ancient Crete

• 4- and 5-star accommodation
• Flexible – extensions, room & flight upgrades available
• Average group size – 14 people (max 18)
• Direct international flights
• Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
• Experienced local tour manager
• 7 breakfasts and 2 lunches
• Guided sightseeing & entrance fees
• Welcome lunch and farewell drink

• Visits to the archaeological sites of Knossos & Eleftherna
• Boat trip to the isle of Spinalonga, once home to a leper colony
• Beekeeping experience and honey tasting
• Wine tasting with traditional Cretan lunch

Day 1: Fly to Heraklion • Rethymno
Fly from London (regional connections available) to Heraklion. Transfer to the Hotel Theartemis Palace in Rethymno (or similar) for 3 nights. Welcome drink
(No meals)

Day 2: Aptera • Chania
This morning, visit the ancient site of Aptera. Continue to the town of Chania with its Venetian harbour, as well as a visit to the Allied Cemetery. Enjoy a welcome lunch before continuing to Rethymno for a guided city walk
(Breakfast and lunch)

Day 3: Arkadi • Eleftherna • Rethymno
Morning visit to Arkadi fortified monastery. Continue to ancient Eleftherna village for a tour and a visit to its museum. Meet a beekeeper for an introduction to beehives and their cultivation.
(Breakfast)

Day 4: Phaestos • Matala • Heraklion
Drive across the island to the Messara plain and visit Phaestos, the second Minoan Palace. Continue to Matala, a seaside town where you can swim or relax on the beach. After, travel on to Heraklion, stopping en route at Gortys. Stay 4 nights at the Aquila Atlantis Hotel (or similar)
(Breakfast)

Day 5: Knossos • Pediados
Take a morning drive to Knossos, to visit the ancient Minoan palace. Then, drive to the Pediados region, Crete’s most famous wine producing area. Visit a wine domaine to learn about Cretan wine, before enjoying a tasting and a traditional lunch. The afternoon is at leisure.
(Breakfast and lunch)

Day 6: Kera • Spinalonga • Heraklion
Morning visit to the Church of Panagia Kera to view the finest Byzantine frescoes in Crete. Continue to Elounda and take a boat to Spinalonga island. Formerly a leper colony, the legacies of Greek, Ottoman, Byzantine and Venetian occupation over the centuries have left their imprint on this fortified island. Return to Heraklion via the port town of Agios Nikolaos.
(Breakfast)

Day 7: Heraklion
Morning at leisure before an afternoon guided visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum to see its collection of Minoan treasures. Farewell drink with the group
(Breakfast)

Day 8: Fly to London
Morning at leisure. Afternoon flight to London.
(Breakfast)

Hotel Aquila Atlantis, Heraklion (Crete)
The Hotel Aquila Atlantis is located less than 200 metres from the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion and just under 6km from the archaeological site of Knossos. The hotel’s outdoor swimming pool has unobstructed views across Heraklion harbour. In the impressive atrium of the hotel you will find the main restaurant, elegantly decorated and an ideal place to enjoy fresh local dishes. Features: 164 rooms & suites, restaurant, lounge bar, swimming pool, Wi-Fi.

Hotel Theartemis Palace, Rethymno
Hotel Theartemis Palace is located a short walk from the historic centre and sandy beach of Rethymno. Guestrooms are elegant and comfortable and public areas are furnished with antiques. Features: 245 rooms, outdoor pool, hot tub/jacuzzi, fitness centre, bar, restaurant, complimentary Wi-Fi.