International Multi-day Tour

Greece: Athens & Crete Pack-Free Hiking

A ten day journey from Athens to Western Crete, combining ancient history with rugged coastal hikes, staying in small villages and exploring each day on foot with just a day pack.

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Destination Greece

Duration 10 Days

Price From $5,990

Departs 18 May 2027

Group Size 14 Max

Overview

Explore Greece with AW

This 10-day journey combines the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of Athens with the rugged beauty and authentic charm of Western Crete. From ancient landmarks and lively local culture to dramatic coastal trails and traditional mountain villages, the itinerary is designed to offer both adventure and meaningful connection.

Led by your AW tour leader alongside a knowledgeable local guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the landscapes, history, and way of life that make this region so special. Staying in small towns and local villages throughout the hiking portion of the trip, you’ll set off each day with just a day pack, allowing you to fully enjoy the slower pace, uncrowded trails and immersive experience of Greek island life.

Fitness/Walk Grade

This trip involves six consecutive days of hiking, ranging from 7km to 15 km per day, often on uneven, hilly terrain. Training is required to get the most out of this trip, starting with a decent baseline of fitness then building up endurance and stamina in the lead up to the trip.

Training hikes involving uneven terrain and inclines is recommended. The more prepared you are, the more comfortable and enjoyable your experience will be.

Marvel in the history of the Acropolis — Take a guided visit of the famous Acropolis

Day 1 Tue 18 May Athens - Welcome Dinner

Welcome to Greece! Our adventure begins in Athens, the vibrant capital city and home to some of the world’s most impressive ancient landmarks and archaeological treasures.

At 5.30pm, the group will gather for a trip briefing followed by a welcome dinner.

Meals: Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel, Athens

Day 2 Wed 19 May Athens - Acropolis tour, free afternoon

We start the day with a guided tour of the Acropolis, one of the world’s most iconic ancient sites, where you’ll explore landmarks such as the Parthenon and learn about the fascinating history of ancient Athens.

After the tour, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Wander through Athens’ lively streets and local markets, relax at a café, do some shopping, or perhaps visit the renowned Acropolis Museum to see an incredible collection of artefacts from the site.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel, Athens

Day 3 Thu 20 May Fly to Crete - Introduction to Chania

Today we leave Athens behind and fly to Crete, where the next stage of our adventure begins. On arrival in Chania, a private transfer will bring us to our hotel near the historic Venetian harbour.

After check-in, there’s free time to wander the colourful alleyways of Chania’s Old Town, browse its small boutiques, or relax by the waterfront.

In the evening, we gather for a seaside dinner and briefing ahead of the upcoming hiking days.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel or Guesthouse, Chania

Day 4 Fri 21 May Chania: Hike Radvoucha Trail (9.5 km) + Olive Oil tasting

After breakfast, we transfer to the Ravdoucha trailhead to begin a spectacular coastal walk overlooking the Gulf of Kissamos.

Following old agricultural paths between sea and sky, today’s route offers sweeping Mediterranean views, rugged cliffs, and peaceful rural landscapes.

After the hike, we visit a local artisanal estate for a guided olive oil tasting experience, followed by a light lunch featuring regional products.

Hiking distance: 9.5 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (light)

Accommodation: Hotel or Guesthouse, Chania

Day 5 Sat 22 May Chania: Hike Ancient Aptera (13 km)

This morning, we transfer to the Ottoman Fortress of Itzedin to begin a fascinating walk through 4,000 years of Cretan history.

The trail follows the lush valley of the Koiliaris River and the springs of Stylos before ascending toward the plateau of Ancient Aptera. Along the way, dramatic views unfold across Souda Bay and the White Mountains, while the ancient Cyclopean walls offer a glimpse into Crete’s distant past.

There is also the option to join a guided visit of the archaeological site of Ancient Aptera, including its Roman cisterns and ancient theatre.

Hiking distance: 12.8 km

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel or Guesthouse, Chania

Day 6 Sun 23 May Chania: Hike Apokoronas (12 km) - Cooking class - Georgioupoli

Today’s walk takes us through the authentic countryside of the Apokoronas region, linking a series of traditional stone-built villages before reaching the coast at Georgioupoli.

Passing through Ksirosterni, Souri, and Argiromouri, we experience a quieter side of Crete shaped by olive groves, rural paths, and timeless village life.

Later, we enjoy an authentic Cretan cooking lesson in Vamos, learning to prepare traditional local dishes using seasonal ingredients before sharing the meal together.

Hiking distance: 11.7 km

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Hotel or Guesthouse, Georgioupoli

Day 7 Mon 24 May Georgioupoli - Aradena Gorge Hike (7km) - Palaiochra

Check out this morning and drive into the dramatic landscapes of Crete’s White Mountains. We’ll stop at the Askifou Plateau for a traditional Greek coffee before continuing through Chora Sfakion and up the winding road to Anopoli, the historic heart of Sfakia.

Then we start one of the most spectacular hikes of the trip. From the iconic iron bridge, we descend on foot through the wild beauty of Aradena Gorge. Towering limestone cliffs and rugged scenery guide the way down to the turquoise waters of Marmara Beach.

After time to swim and relax at Marmara, we board a private boat and travel along Crete’s stunning south coast to Palaiochora.

Hiking distance: 7km (note: this is a moderate to challenging hike due to the descent)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel or Guesthouse, Palaiochra

Day 8 Tue 25 May Palaiochora: Byzantine heritage hike (9km)

A short drive from Palaiochora brings us to the peaceful village of Azogires, the starting point for today’s circular hike through the hills of the Selino region.

Following old village paths and ancient olive groves, the trail passes the legendary Cave of the 99 Holy Fathers and the remains of hidden Byzantine chapels before climbing toward Spaniakos. The highlight is the hilltop Koules fortress, where sweeping views open across the Libyan Sea and the surrounding valleys.

Back in Palaiochora, the afternoon is yours to enjoy.

Hiking distance: 9 km

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel or Guesthouse, Palaiochra

Day 9 Wed 26 May Palaiochora - Sougia - Lissos Hike (10km) - Farewell Dinner

After breakfast, we check out and travel by boat to Sougia, where the hike begins toward the secluded valley of Ancient Lissos.

The trail winds through pine-covered hills to the ruins of the ancient Asklepieion, a healing sanctuary with mosaic floors, Roman tombs, and Byzantine chapels. After time to explore and swim, return on foot to Sougia.

Then we drive back to Chania, where we’ll enjoy our final dinner together.

Hiking distance: 9.5 km

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Hotel or Guesthouse, Chania

Day 10 Thu 27 May Chania departure

Today is departure day. There are no included activities- you may depart at any time.

Meals: Breakfast

Important Notes

Every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as planned, but please remember this is adventure travel and conditions can change unexpectedly. Weather, road conditions, vehicle issues, or the health of fellow travellers may require adjustments. We’ll do our best to keep things on track, but a flexible and easy-going attitude is essential for the best experience.

Occasionally, certain experiences or activities may need to be modified or skipped due to circumstances beyond our control. In such cases, refunds will not be provided for any missed components of the itinerary.

Adventurous Women Tour Leader
Accommodation on a twin/share basis with optional single rooms at a surcharge
English-speaking local guide in Crete plus for Acropolis visit on day 2
Private transportation on Crete plus boat transfers as listed
Airport transfer on day 3 from Athens Hotel to Athens Airport
Meals as listed in the itinerary

"Loved every minute of the trip! Organisation was great, tour leader (Jazzy) was fabulous, and the other women on the walk were just lovely"

Celia Nepal

"So well organised by the team nothing was a problem so helpful lots of fun with the other Adventurous Women"

Lorrie Ningaloo Reef

"I loved the great group of women and the variety of activities. We hiked, cooked, kayaked, met elephants, laughed, swam and ate. Marie’s knowledge of her homeland made this a memorable experience"

Michelle Cambodia

"Loved the week hiking with Anna & an inspiring group of women. Really well organised, fun, delicious food, amazing scenery. Highly recommend"

Sue Bibbulmun Track

"A stunning part of the world to hike with a special group of awesome women, led by our wonderful leader Lyn"

Tammy Japan

Cancellation & Refunds

Cancellation by Adventurous Women:
In the event that we cancel a tour or are unable to guarantee the departure due to not meeting minimum numbers, we will provide a full refund.

Cancellation by you:

90+ days before departure - Loss of deposit (partial voucher available*)
75-89 days before departure - Loss of deposit
74 days or less before departure - Loss of all payments
No refund is available once a tour has commenced

*Multi-day tour cancellations made 90+ days before departure are eligible for a $250 voucher

We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance with trip cancellation cover for peace of mind.

View our full booking terms & conditions

The Adventurous Women Way

The magic of our trips comes from travellers bringing a supportive mindset, a go-with-the-flow attitude, and a genuine spirit of adventure.

We explore beautiful, often remote places where life moves at a different pace. Flexibility, a little humour and positivity go a long way in creating an atmosphere where everyone feels free to be themselves and make the adventure far more rewarding.

Find more about the Adventurous Women Way and travelling with AW

Exclusions

The following is not included in the cost of the tour:

International flights
Domestic flight Athens to Chania, Crete (Appx 60-120 Euros/person / per way)
Drinks other than water
Meals other than those listed as included
Tips and gratuities for local guides and drivers
Expenses of a personal nature
Travel insurance (mandatory)

Solo Travellers

If you’re travelling solo not to worry, you’re in good company! Many of our travellers join solo and our trips are designed to feel welcoming and supportive from the moment you arrive. It’s a great way to meet like-minded women, and friendships often form quickly along the way.

When on the tour, we have you sharing with different women from the group at different times - great for group bonding and also for alleviating any potential annoyances that may occur as a result of travelling with the same person throughout a tour. Or, if you’d prefer your own room on the trip, this is available for an additional supplement. You can select this option at the time of booking.

Arrival & Departure Details

The tour starts in the evening of 18 May in Athens. Athens International Airport (AIA) is the largest airport in Greece, with the most international connections.

The trip ends after breakfast on 27 May on Crete. There are no included activities so you may depart at any time. Crete’s Chania International Airport (CHQ) has several flights a day to/from Athens as well as other regional cities

Who will be leading the trip?

All AW trips are accompanied by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. Their role is to take the hassle out of your travels and help you get the most out of your experience, while embracing the Adventurous Women way.

You’ll also be joined by English-speaking Greek guides for the Acropolis tour and while hiking in Crete.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

We do our best to accommodate dietary requirements and food allergies on every tour. There may be times when options are limited but we’ll be sure to inform you in advance.

Accommodation

We will be staying in a mix of comfortable hotels and guesthouses.

How will we be travelling?

We will travel by private bus or van for most of the journey. There is one domestic flight required from Athens to Chania on 20 May- it is not included in the tour price but is estimated to be around 100 Euros. Details will be advised once the flight schedule is released.

Is travel insurance required?

Travel insurance is mandatory for AW's international trips. We recommend taking out a policy early. Most good travel insurance policies offer an upgrade option to cover trip cancellation and interruption, which can come in handy.

If you are looking for a recommendation, we suggest Go Insurance. Through a partnership with this insurer AW guests receive a 10% discount off the cost of insurance using this link (discount will be applied at checkout).