Classic Greece: Athens, Crete and Santorini

The seed of Western civilization is a tangle of busy streets and bougainvillea-fringed squares, a romantic litany of ruins and relics. Turn the corner and Athens might just present you with a time-worn temple or amphitheater, set beneath the peerless gaze of the Parthenon. Arrive and transfer privately to your hotel and meet your fellow guests over a welcome dinner.

Visit the Acropolis Museum, marveling at artifacts Athenians used in everyday life, as well as finds from the slopes of the Acropolis. Stroll the Plaka, filled with flower shops, taverns and charming boutiques. Explore the Acropolis, one of the greatest icons of the ancient world, followed by dinner.

Experience Grecian hospitality and food firsthand with an unforgettable private, hands-on cooking class, followed by the chance to taste your creations over lunch. Return to the hotel for an afternoon of exploring on your own.

Fly to the island of Crete and check in to your seaside accommodations in Agios Nikolaos, a coastal town that blends bustling city life with local art and a leisurely attitude. Embark on a private cruise to the island of Spinalonga, a protective outpost for the Cretan mainland built in 1579, where you wander the streets of this former fortress community.

Once the center of the Minoan civilization, the Palace of Knossos is today Crete's most famous historic attraction. Follow your visit with lunch at a winery. Explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home of the world's best collection of Minoan art.

In eastern Crete today, visit the Byzantine church of Panagia Kera, a 13th-century structure with impressive frescoes. Call on an organic cosmetics producer, and then explore Kritsa, renowned for its traditional weaving, and visit an olive oil maker for a tasting.

Journey to Santorini by high-speed catamaran. Travel north to Oia to enjoy lunch. Check in to your hotel, then continue to Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement preserved in volcanic ash from the ancient eruption of the island. The site has been suggested as a possible inspiration for Plato's story of Atlantis. Explore the beautiful village of Oia and have dinner in a local restaurant.

Visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, home to amazing artifacts of the Mycenean culture. Savor some free time in Megalochori before returning to the resort for an afternoon and evening on your own.

Fly to Athens and visit the Temple of Poseidon, travelling along the shores of Cape Sounion. Take in the gorgeous vistas over the Aegean Sea as you imagine life for the ancient Greeks who built the temple. Travel to your waterfront resort, where you settle in and enjoy some time to relax. This evening, gather for a special farewell dinner in the hotel's restaurant overlooking the sea.

After breakfast, privately transfer to Athens Airport and board your onward flight.