Help Creating Plan for Greece
Dec 4, 2016 | 1:04 pm
#1
Original Poster
Join Date: Dec 2016
Posts: 24
Help Creating Plan for Greece
Significant other and I are looking to travel to Greece from Maryland in September for 12-14 days. We're in need of some guidance to determine how to best plan the trip because we're battling some information overload. We're inexperienced traveling abroad.
Current rewards:
Goals:
Combined, we currently have the following credit cards:
We appreciate your help!
Current rewards:
Goals:
Combined, we currently have the following credit cards:
We appreciate your help!
Last edited by jcfr22; Dec 6, 2016 at 6:43 pm
Dec 4, 2016 | 1:51 pm
#2
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: MEL CHC
Posts: 22,910
jcfr22 Welcome to FT
- What research have you done yourself on airline ffp's that could get the trip you want?
- What research have you done yourself on airlines & routes?
- What ffp's are you a member of now? How many ff miles/points? Only UA?
- What airlines are transfer partners of your credit card? (It does vary by the country of credit card issue)
- You seem to be a frequent spender and not a frequent flyer
- FF miles are not equal to earn or burn. They are not 1 to 1.
- Some ffp's allow one way awards. So you could uses 2 or more ffp's
Credit card transfer links
Credit, Debit and Prepaid Card Programs forum
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/ameri...l-program.html
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/chase...mes-rules.html
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/citi-...-partners.html
Awards assistance tools
Use at your own risk. These may not be up to date. (These are not recommendations)
If a multi segment award check the rules/cost carefully. With some ffp’s it can be 2 or more awards or cost more ff miles than a direct flight.
Some awards/airlines/routes can have cash surcharges, in addition to real taxes.
-AwardAce: Compare Award Redemptions Across Airlines In Seconds --> http://www.awardace.com/
-Economical Excursionist's Tools to compare Frequent Flyer Mile Redemptions --> http://www.flyermiler.com/
-http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/trave...ast-miles.html --> http://www.awardhacker.com/
- What research have you done yourself on airline ffp's that could get the trip you want?
- What research have you done yourself on airlines & routes?
- What ffp's are you a member of now? How many ff miles/points? Only UA?
- What airlines are transfer partners of your credit card? (It does vary by the country of credit card issue)
- You seem to be a frequent spender and not a frequent flyer
- FF miles are not equal to earn or burn. They are not 1 to 1.
- Some ffp's allow one way awards. So you could uses 2 or more ffp's
Credit card transfer links
Credit, Debit and Prepaid Card Programs forum
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/ameri...l-program.html
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/chase...mes-rules.html
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/citi-...-partners.html
Awards assistance tools
Use at your own risk. These may not be up to date. (These are not recommendations)
If a multi segment award check the rules/cost carefully. With some ffp’s it can be 2 or more awards or cost more ff miles than a direct flight.
Some awards/airlines/routes can have cash surcharges, in addition to real taxes.
-AwardAce: Compare Award Redemptions Across Airlines In Seconds --> http://www.awardace.com/
-Economical Excursionist's Tools to compare Frequent Flyer Mile Redemptions --> http://www.flyermiler.com/
-http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/trave...ast-miles.html --> http://www.awardhacker.com/
Dec 4, 2016 | 5:23 pm
#3
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: MSP
Programs: DL Gold, DL MM 8/22/16!
Posts: 2,563
Have you been to Greece before? Or other European cities?
How do you plan to move about? Public bus/train? Metro? Rent a car? Uber? Taxis? Guided tours about the country? Local guides for specific spots?
Sometimes I start with www.tripadvisor.com, looking up "Things To Do" in the cities I plan to visit. Sometimes I just go to the local library and bring back an armload of guide books.
Sometimes I find the country specific forum on this site and browse.
Until you have decided upon the cities you wish to visit, you can't check to see if they have points hotels you can use. I tend to use bidding via Priceline quite often. And Airbnb.
You need some sort of general traveling plan. This is just one, copied from a package tour company, but you could use it as a starting point and adjust for your personal desires.
DAY 1 Arrive in Athens, Greece (Athens is your most likely arrival point.)
Check into your hotel. Start exploring the Greek capital when you've partially recovered from the flight.
DAY 2 Athens
A day to discover Athens at leisure, visiting one of the museums or strolling through the Plaka district
DAY 3 AthensCorinthEpidaurusNauplia
A walking tour of Athens, featuring the highlights of this ancient capital with a visit to the ACROPOLIS. Next, cross the CORINTH CANAL and journey into the Argolis to stop in EPIDAURUS, located in the hilly countryside dotted with pine trees and oleanders. In this magnificent setting, visit the ancient OPEN-AIR THEATER that can still seat 14,000 spectators. Head for the coast to Nauplia.
DAY 4 NaupliaMycenaeSparta
This morning, enjoy an excursion to the ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE and the MUSEUM OF MYCENAE, a city fortress cursed by the gods but rich in gold and warrior kings. Travel deep into the Peloponnese to Sparta, where history hangs between reality and legend.
DAY 5 SpartaMystraOlympia
Enjoy sightseeing of the medieval BYZANTINE CITADEL OF MYSTRA, at one time known as the Florence of the East. Continue to Olympia.
DAY 6 OlympiaPatrasDelphi
Focus on Olympia, where the athletes of antiquity performed in honor of the king of deities. Learn more about the history of the Olympic Games on the optional sightseeing tour. Later, travel north to Patras, the capital of the Peloponnese and the west coasts largest port. Then, via the spectacular RION-ANTIRION BRIDGE through the picturesque fishing villages along the south coast of the mainland to mystical Delphi.
DAY 7 DelphiKalambaka
Sightseeing of the archaeological site in Delphi. Once called the Navel of the Earth, Delphi was the greatest oracle of the ancient world, where people flocked to seek advice. Now, its one of the grandest sites in Greece. On to Kalambaka.
DAY 8 KalambakaMeteoraAthens
A short drive to Meteora, a cluster of spectacular Christian-Orthodox MONASTIC BUILDINGS perched in an unforgettable manner on a set of rising rock formations. They were originally built by hermit monks living in caves carved into the rocks. Later, drive south to Athens. Have a Greek dinner.
DAY 9 Athens
A full day to explore the unseen parts of the city, do last-minute shopping, or maybe even join a local guide for a walking tour.
DAY 10 Athens
How do you plan to move about? Public bus/train? Metro? Rent a car? Uber? Taxis? Guided tours about the country? Local guides for specific spots?
Sometimes I start with www.tripadvisor.com, looking up "Things To Do" in the cities I plan to visit. Sometimes I just go to the local library and bring back an armload of guide books.
Sometimes I find the country specific forum on this site and browse.
Until you have decided upon the cities you wish to visit, you can't check to see if they have points hotels you can use. I tend to use bidding via Priceline quite often. And Airbnb.
You need some sort of general traveling plan. This is just one, copied from a package tour company, but you could use it as a starting point and adjust for your personal desires.
DAY 1 Arrive in Athens, Greece (Athens is your most likely arrival point.)
Check into your hotel. Start exploring the Greek capital when you've partially recovered from the flight.
DAY 2 Athens
A day to discover Athens at leisure, visiting one of the museums or strolling through the Plaka district
DAY 3 AthensCorinthEpidaurusNauplia
A walking tour of Athens, featuring the highlights of this ancient capital with a visit to the ACROPOLIS. Next, cross the CORINTH CANAL and journey into the Argolis to stop in EPIDAURUS, located in the hilly countryside dotted with pine trees and oleanders. In this magnificent setting, visit the ancient OPEN-AIR THEATER that can still seat 14,000 spectators. Head for the coast to Nauplia.
DAY 4 NaupliaMycenaeSparta
This morning, enjoy an excursion to the ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE and the MUSEUM OF MYCENAE, a city fortress cursed by the gods but rich in gold and warrior kings. Travel deep into the Peloponnese to Sparta, where history hangs between reality and legend.
DAY 5 SpartaMystraOlympia
Enjoy sightseeing of the medieval BYZANTINE CITADEL OF MYSTRA, at one time known as the Florence of the East. Continue to Olympia.
DAY 6 OlympiaPatrasDelphi
Focus on Olympia, where the athletes of antiquity performed in honor of the king of deities. Learn more about the history of the Olympic Games on the optional sightseeing tour. Later, travel north to Patras, the capital of the Peloponnese and the west coasts largest port. Then, via the spectacular RION-ANTIRION BRIDGE through the picturesque fishing villages along the south coast of the mainland to mystical Delphi.
DAY 7 DelphiKalambaka
Sightseeing of the archaeological site in Delphi. Once called the Navel of the Earth, Delphi was the greatest oracle of the ancient world, where people flocked to seek advice. Now, its one of the grandest sites in Greece. On to Kalambaka.
DAY 8 KalambakaMeteoraAthens
A short drive to Meteora, a cluster of spectacular Christian-Orthodox MONASTIC BUILDINGS perched in an unforgettable manner on a set of rising rock formations. They were originally built by hermit monks living in caves carved into the rocks. Later, drive south to Athens. Have a Greek dinner.
DAY 9 Athens
A full day to explore the unseen parts of the city, do last-minute shopping, or maybe even join a local guide for a walking tour.
DAY 10 Athens
Dec 6, 2016 | 12:47 pm
#4
Join Date: Aug 2011
Location: PWM/CDG
Programs: AF/KL Plat, AA Plat, HH Diamond
Posts: 793
I may be able to help, but, like others said, we need more details. Romelle's plan looks great... but also exhausting!
Greece is a safe, modern European country, so overall, you really don't need to worry about that (of course there are some areas in Athens that aren't fantastic at night, but nothing to worry about - I'm usually more concerned about my safety in Chicago or New Orleans).
Now - are you flexible within the month of September? It's a great time to visit Greece (nice and warm, but not the terrible heat you may endure in late July or August, and less tourists).
- How do you plan to get around? I hate to say it as I do encourage the use of public transportation, but to be comfortable, I would encourage you to rent a car, especially if you want to tour the Peloponnese. KTEL buses do exist, and are cheap, but may not necessarily make for a cozy ride. Of course, while you stay in Athens or Thessaloniki, a car would be more a problem than a solution.
-You won't find chain hotels everywhere in Greece, but wherever you don't, there are often comfortable and affordable properties around.
- When you say flying First isn't important, do you mean premium cabin isn't important or specifically First (as opposed to Business)?
With you Chase/Amex points you could look into transferring to Air France's Flying Blue (Look for availability before you transfer, transfers are usually instant). AF flies the A380 out of IAD. It's a comfortable ride in Economy (methinks), with a good amount of award seats, with decent food, and AF-AF connections at CDG are really easy nowadays. And it's only 50,000 miles r/t, with €45 fees to change/cancel. - again, just a suggestion.
Also, since you have the Sapphire reserve, keep an eye out for sales to Europe: they happen pretty frequently these days - but it's maybe a bit early for September. You could end up spending a lot less booking directly with Chase UR travel if the ticket cost is around $500 - (you'd only need to spend 34,000 UR points per ticket). Again, just a suggestion!
For culture, I'd say Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae are a must-see, and they are within a rather small radius, but again, Greek roads aren't wonderful.
For relaxing - you could look at Kalamata, or Tolo, or Euboea, or even smaller islands (fly Aegean within Greece, they're a nice airline, and cheap, so don't bother with miles for domestic flights).
Greece is a safe, modern European country, so overall, you really don't need to worry about that (of course there are some areas in Athens that aren't fantastic at night, but nothing to worry about - I'm usually more concerned about my safety in Chicago or New Orleans).
Now - are you flexible within the month of September? It's a great time to visit Greece (nice and warm, but not the terrible heat you may endure in late July or August, and less tourists).
- How do you plan to get around? I hate to say it as I do encourage the use of public transportation, but to be comfortable, I would encourage you to rent a car, especially if you want to tour the Peloponnese. KTEL buses do exist, and are cheap, but may not necessarily make for a cozy ride. Of course, while you stay in Athens or Thessaloniki, a car would be more a problem than a solution.
-You won't find chain hotels everywhere in Greece, but wherever you don't, there are often comfortable and affordable properties around.
- When you say flying First isn't important, do you mean premium cabin isn't important or specifically First (as opposed to Business)?
With you Chase/Amex points you could look into transferring to Air France's Flying Blue (Look for availability before you transfer, transfers are usually instant). AF flies the A380 out of IAD. It's a comfortable ride in Economy (methinks), with a good amount of award seats, with decent food, and AF-AF connections at CDG are really easy nowadays. And it's only 50,000 miles r/t, with €45 fees to change/cancel. - again, just a suggestion.
Also, since you have the Sapphire reserve, keep an eye out for sales to Europe: they happen pretty frequently these days - but it's maybe a bit early for September. You could end up spending a lot less booking directly with Chase UR travel if the ticket cost is around $500 - (you'd only need to spend 34,000 UR points per ticket). Again, just a suggestion!
For culture, I'd say Athens, Delphi, Olympia, Epidaurus, Mycenae are a must-see, and they are within a rather small radius, but again, Greek roads aren't wonderful.
For relaxing - you could look at Kalamata, or Tolo, or Euboea, or even smaller islands (fly Aegean within Greece, they're a nice airline, and cheap, so don't bother with miles for domestic flights).
Dec 6, 2016 | 3:48 pm
#5
Original Poster
Join Date: Dec 2016
Posts: 24
Thanks for the replies! I'll try to cover most of the questions in this single response.
@Mwenenzi
What research have you done yourself on airline ffp's that could get the trip you want?
I read doctorofcredit, flyertalk, and thepointsguy. But it's all a bit overwhelming.
What research have you done yourself on airlines & routes?
There seem to be many ways to get to Athens. It sounds like Athens will likely be our way in and out. But choosing which route and points programs points to use is where I'm overwhlemed. Not sure how to best decide.
What ffp's are you a member of now? How many ff miles/points? Only UA?
I listed where most of my points are, but over the years I've joined other programs like Southwest, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue. But I really don't fly often and have not accumulated points worth much value in these other programs.
What airlines are transfer partners of your credit card? (It does vary by the country of credit card issue)
I really don't know exactly. From what I've read, I have a good amount of options. It's almost as if having a lot of options is causing me to get overwhelmed.
You seem to be a frequent spender and not a frequent flyer
Correct. I haven't traveled much in recent years. The majority of the points I've accumulated have been from hitting sign up bonus's and normal spend. I accumulated most of the SPG points in particular years ago when I traveled for work a bit more.
@Romelle
Have you been to Greece before? Or other European cities?
Nope.
You need some sort of general traveling plan. How do you plan to move about? Public bus/train? Metro? Rent a car? Uber? Taxis? Guided tours about the country? Local guides for specific spots?
Based on the research I've done so far, I'm thinking something like this from a high level. But I'm really not tied to this... just a starting point.
-2 nights in Athens (arrival airport)
-3 nights in Santorini (via ferry or plane)
-3 nights in another island (via ferry) like Mykonos, Naxos, or Icaria.
-2 nights in Athens (via ferry or plane from previous location) (departure airport)
@Oxymore
Are you flexible within the month of September? It's a great time to visit Greece (nice and warm, but not the terrible heat you may endure in late July or August, and less tourists).
Yes, we're flexible within the month of September.
How do you plan to get around? I hate to say it as I do encourage the use of public transportation, but to be comfortable, I would encourage you to rent a car, especially if you want to tour the Peloponnese. KTEL buses do exist, and are cheap, but may not necessarily make for a cozy ride. Of course, while you stay in Athens or Thessaloniki, a car would be more a problem than a solution.
I'm not opposed to getting a car if that's what's suggested the best way to travel in the areas we visit...
When you say flying First isn't important, do you mean premium cabin isn't important or specifically First (as opposed to Business)?
I mean that I'm not quite a flying snob, and prefer to use points for as much as our trip as possible. If using points to sit First Class (or a more premium cabin) meant that I'd have to pay for all of our hotels with cash, then I'd rather sit in a less premium cabin and be able to use some of the points for hotels as well. Economy is fine with us and I'm glad to see you recommend it.
Since you have the Sapphire reserve, keep an eye out for sales to Europe: they happen pretty frequently these days - but it's maybe a bit early for September. You could end up spending a lot less booking directly with Chase UR travel if the ticket cost is around $500 - (you'd only need to spend 34,000 UR points per ticket). Again, just a suggestion!
This is exactly the type of thing that I want to learn about. That sounds like a great value and I wouldn't want to screw up booking a different way that sucks up all my points. What's the best way to find these? When you say they happen frequently, does that mean they come and go within like 48 hours or longer than that? 34,000 UR points per ticket sounds awesome!
Thanks again all.
@Mwenenzi
What research have you done yourself on airline ffp's that could get the trip you want?
I read doctorofcredit, flyertalk, and thepointsguy. But it's all a bit overwhelming.
What research have you done yourself on airlines & routes?
There seem to be many ways to get to Athens. It sounds like Athens will likely be our way in and out. But choosing which route and points programs points to use is where I'm overwhlemed. Not sure how to best decide.
What ffp's are you a member of now? How many ff miles/points? Only UA?
I listed where most of my points are, but over the years I've joined other programs like Southwest, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue. But I really don't fly often and have not accumulated points worth much value in these other programs.
What airlines are transfer partners of your credit card? (It does vary by the country of credit card issue)
I really don't know exactly. From what I've read, I have a good amount of options. It's almost as if having a lot of options is causing me to get overwhelmed.
You seem to be a frequent spender and not a frequent flyer
Correct. I haven't traveled much in recent years. The majority of the points I've accumulated have been from hitting sign up bonus's and normal spend. I accumulated most of the SPG points in particular years ago when I traveled for work a bit more.
@Romelle
Have you been to Greece before? Or other European cities?
Nope.
You need some sort of general traveling plan. How do you plan to move about? Public bus/train? Metro? Rent a car? Uber? Taxis? Guided tours about the country? Local guides for specific spots?
Based on the research I've done so far, I'm thinking something like this from a high level. But I'm really not tied to this... just a starting point.
-2 nights in Athens (arrival airport)
-3 nights in Santorini (via ferry or plane)
-3 nights in another island (via ferry) like Mykonos, Naxos, or Icaria.
-2 nights in Athens (via ferry or plane from previous location) (departure airport)
@Oxymore
Are you flexible within the month of September? It's a great time to visit Greece (nice and warm, but not the terrible heat you may endure in late July or August, and less tourists).
Yes, we're flexible within the month of September.
How do you plan to get around? I hate to say it as I do encourage the use of public transportation, but to be comfortable, I would encourage you to rent a car, especially if you want to tour the Peloponnese. KTEL buses do exist, and are cheap, but may not necessarily make for a cozy ride. Of course, while you stay in Athens or Thessaloniki, a car would be more a problem than a solution.
I'm not opposed to getting a car if that's what's suggested the best way to travel in the areas we visit...
When you say flying First isn't important, do you mean premium cabin isn't important or specifically First (as opposed to Business)?
I mean that I'm not quite a flying snob, and prefer to use points for as much as our trip as possible. If using points to sit First Class (or a more premium cabin) meant that I'd have to pay for all of our hotels with cash, then I'd rather sit in a less premium cabin and be able to use some of the points for hotels as well. Economy is fine with us and I'm glad to see you recommend it.
Since you have the Sapphire reserve, keep an eye out for sales to Europe: they happen pretty frequently these days - but it's maybe a bit early for September. You could end up spending a lot less booking directly with Chase UR travel if the ticket cost is around $500 - (you'd only need to spend 34,000 UR points per ticket). Again, just a suggestion!
This is exactly the type of thing that I want to learn about. That sounds like a great value and I wouldn't want to screw up booking a different way that sucks up all my points. What's the best way to find these? When you say they happen frequently, does that mean they come and go within like 48 hours or longer than that? 34,000 UR points per ticket sounds awesome!
Thanks again all.
Last edited by jcfr22; Dec 8, 2016 at 5:56 am Reason: Improved formatting.
Dec 7, 2016 | 2:46 pm
#6
Join Date: Feb 2013
Posts: 103
For the least effort you could book United flights. Transfer some of your UR points to United and fly round trip coach for 65,000 points each.
There are a number of SPG properties in Athens where you could use your points.
I'd look at flying to one of the islands - Santorini or Mykonos. You can get flights for about $100 a piece. You'd need to pay for hotels, but they are very cheap (starting at around $50 a night depending on the amenities).
There are a number of SPG properties in Athens where you could use your points.
I'd look at flying to one of the islands - Santorini or Mykonos. You can get flights for about $100 a piece. You'd need to pay for hotels, but they are very cheap (starting at around $50 a night depending on the amenities).
Dec 9, 2016 | 8:10 am
#9
Join Date: Nov 2006
Location: MSP
Programs: DL Gold, DL MM 8/22/16!
Posts: 2,563
I hope you also look at the "Destinations" area on this site. And then in "Europe" since Greece doesn't have its very own forum. It would also be a good place to pose detailed questions later.
And when you start narrowing things down to specific hotels, www.tripadvisor.com is very good for reviewing hotels.
And when you start narrowing things down to specific hotels, www.tripadvisor.com is very good for reviewing hotels.
Dec 14, 2016 | 6:39 pm
#10
Original Poster
Join Date: Dec 2016
Posts: 24
Appreciate everyones input. Figured I'd provide an update for those interested:
1. Flying (a less than ideal but not horrible flight plan) from IAD > MUC > ATH. Both are on Lufthansa. Return flight will be ATH > MUC > IAD. One operated by Air China and one by Lufthansa. I Booked the flights on United.com. So I used the 72,000 United MileagePlus award miles and transferred 48,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Total United points was 120,000 for our airline tickets.
2. Spending 1st night in Athens at Hotel Grande Bretagne. Reserved with 10,000 SPG starpoints + $180. Will likely cancel later and re-book fully with Chase UR points.
3. Flying to Crete (HER) from ATH on Aegean. Booked directly for a total of $215. Will likely cancel it later and book fully with Chase UR points.
4. Spending 5 nights in Crete at the Blue Palace, on 90,000 SPG starpoints and enjoying the 5th night free. Still need to decide best way to rent a car while there.
5. Ferry to Santorini. Still need to figure out how to best book that.
6. Spending 4 nights in Santorini but haven't decide where (Oia or Imerovigli). Want to book fully with Chase UR points.
7. Ferry to Athens. Still need to figure out how to best book that.
8. Spending last night in Athens, likely at Hilton using 75,000 HHonors points.
Current Remaining point count:
-0 United MileagePlus award miles
-3,000 SPG Starpoints
-0 (likely) Hilton HHonors points
-212,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards
-93,200 Amex Membership Rewards points
Any more feedback or suggestions?
Thanks!
1. Flying (a less than ideal but not horrible flight plan) from IAD > MUC > ATH. Both are on Lufthansa. Return flight will be ATH > MUC > IAD. One operated by Air China and one by Lufthansa. I Booked the flights on United.com. So I used the 72,000 United MileagePlus award miles and transferred 48,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points. Total United points was 120,000 for our airline tickets.
2. Spending 1st night in Athens at Hotel Grande Bretagne. Reserved with 10,000 SPG starpoints + $180. Will likely cancel later and re-book fully with Chase UR points.
3. Flying to Crete (HER) from ATH on Aegean. Booked directly for a total of $215. Will likely cancel it later and book fully with Chase UR points.
4. Spending 5 nights in Crete at the Blue Palace, on 90,000 SPG starpoints and enjoying the 5th night free. Still need to decide best way to rent a car while there.
5. Ferry to Santorini. Still need to figure out how to best book that.
6. Spending 4 nights in Santorini but haven't decide where (Oia or Imerovigli). Want to book fully with Chase UR points.
7. Ferry to Athens. Still need to figure out how to best book that.
8. Spending last night in Athens, likely at Hilton using 75,000 HHonors points.
Current Remaining point count:
-0 United MileagePlus award miles
-3,000 SPG Starpoints
-0 (likely) Hilton HHonors points
-212,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards
-93,200 Amex Membership Rewards points
Any more feedback or suggestions?
Thanks!
Apr 8, 2017 | 8:32 am
#11
Join Date: Apr 2017
Posts: 2
Ya-sas jcfr22,
I have lived in Greece more specifically Chania, Crete for over 4 years. I am excited for your adventure to Greece. Wife and I are trying to get back out there June of 18'.
Great flight plan coming into Athens. I hope that you know that Downtown Athens is a long way from the Athens Airport. If you take the train expect at least 2 hours travel each way. I am not a big fan of Athens but the Parthenon and the Acropolis is fantastic to see. 1 day in Athens is really all you need.
One of the finest hotels in Athens as many diplomats and foreign leaders stay at the Grande Bretagne. I have found staying at the hotel at the airport has been extremely convenient. Being able to drop of the luggage and then go explore Athens took the toll off dragging all the luggage everywhere. Then the day of the flight out being at the airport for departure has prevented a lot of stress. The Grande Bretagne may offer a shuttle however I have never experienced that and even the drive takes some time to and from the airport.
Crete really is the best over all island. The people there are extremely hospitable and friendly. I would recommend just trying to learn a few Greek words/phrases. The attempt to speak Greek goes a long way. Fair warning Greeks do not have a bubble so when attempting to board a flight be ready for a mess of people just pushing each other in the most un orthodox manner.
The Blue Palace is a wonderful hotel with a great view of Spinalonga Island which is a must see if you are in the area. Take the time to read about the history of that Island before you go it is fascinating. There isn't much else to do in that area besides the good food and possibly a winery. The closest town is filled with Brits and tourist. If you are looking for a private romantic get away this is a solid choice.
If I were to recommend a place to stay it would be Chania or Rethymno on the western side of Crete. You will be able to experience much more of the Cretan culture in those locations and if you do rent a car you must go to elafinisi beach (a challenging drive) and the Balos Lagoon. These beaches are heavenly.
I would recommend taking the bus system to the town you want to go to and then renting a car locally. Driving in Crete is different. Locals drive aggressive and driving on the highway you basically drive on the shoulder unless you are passing someone. Below is the link to the public bus system.
https://rethymnon.com/TheBus-Bus-Ser...table.php?lg=2
Chania car rental I recommend is Horafakia Car Rentals +30-2821-039411
Ferry reservations I use viva.gr
I highly recommend buying the VIP seats.
If you don't feel comfortable buying on viva.gr a local travel agent can help you get the ferry tickets you need for no charge. Don't let them charge you a fee for buying the tickets. All they do is buy them off viva.gr and are able to print them on the spot.
Santorini is a special place. It has a magic feeling to it. Once you arrive at the port it will be hectic. Get your bags and get to the local bus that takes you to Fira. Once you get to Fira look for a scooter rental (if you or your significant other is comfortable renting a scooter) or a 4 wheeler. Hopefully your hotel can pick you up from the Fira bus station and get your bags. One of you will have to drive the scooter or 4 wheeler (not a 50cc either get something with a little power to get up the hills) and meet the other at the hotel. I highly recommend OIA! best sunsets, food, drinks, atmosphere on the island. Fira is a tourist trap. Enjoy your days at the many wineries, different beaches, ancient city of Akrotyri ruins and try to see a movie at the little outdoor movie theatre. Santorini is such a special place and is romantic just in itself. I have fallen in love in Santorini.
One last thing. You will have to use cash for most every transaction especially dining. Greece is a cash economy. So don't hesitate when you see an ATM and you don't have any EURO on you.
Any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to ask.
I have lived in Greece more specifically Chania, Crete for over 4 years. I am excited for your adventure to Greece. Wife and I are trying to get back out there June of 18'.
Great flight plan coming into Athens. I hope that you know that Downtown Athens is a long way from the Athens Airport. If you take the train expect at least 2 hours travel each way. I am not a big fan of Athens but the Parthenon and the Acropolis is fantastic to see. 1 day in Athens is really all you need.
One of the finest hotels in Athens as many diplomats and foreign leaders stay at the Grande Bretagne. I have found staying at the hotel at the airport has been extremely convenient. Being able to drop of the luggage and then go explore Athens took the toll off dragging all the luggage everywhere. Then the day of the flight out being at the airport for departure has prevented a lot of stress. The Grande Bretagne may offer a shuttle however I have never experienced that and even the drive takes some time to and from the airport.
Crete really is the best over all island. The people there are extremely hospitable and friendly. I would recommend just trying to learn a few Greek words/phrases. The attempt to speak Greek goes a long way. Fair warning Greeks do not have a bubble so when attempting to board a flight be ready for a mess of people just pushing each other in the most un orthodox manner.
The Blue Palace is a wonderful hotel with a great view of Spinalonga Island which is a must see if you are in the area. Take the time to read about the history of that Island before you go it is fascinating. There isn't much else to do in that area besides the good food and possibly a winery. The closest town is filled with Brits and tourist. If you are looking for a private romantic get away this is a solid choice.
If I were to recommend a place to stay it would be Chania or Rethymno on the western side of Crete. You will be able to experience much more of the Cretan culture in those locations and if you do rent a car you must go to elafinisi beach (a challenging drive) and the Balos Lagoon. These beaches are heavenly.
I would recommend taking the bus system to the town you want to go to and then renting a car locally. Driving in Crete is different. Locals drive aggressive and driving on the highway you basically drive on the shoulder unless you are passing someone. Below is the link to the public bus system.
https://rethymnon.com/TheBus-Bus-Ser...table.php?lg=2
Chania car rental I recommend is Horafakia Car Rentals +30-2821-039411
Ferry reservations I use viva.gr
I highly recommend buying the VIP seats.
If you don't feel comfortable buying on viva.gr a local travel agent can help you get the ferry tickets you need for no charge. Don't let them charge you a fee for buying the tickets. All they do is buy them off viva.gr and are able to print them on the spot.
Santorini is a special place. It has a magic feeling to it. Once you arrive at the port it will be hectic. Get your bags and get to the local bus that takes you to Fira. Once you get to Fira look for a scooter rental (if you or your significant other is comfortable renting a scooter) or a 4 wheeler. Hopefully your hotel can pick you up from the Fira bus station and get your bags. One of you will have to drive the scooter or 4 wheeler (not a 50cc either get something with a little power to get up the hills) and meet the other at the hotel. I highly recommend OIA! best sunsets, food, drinks, atmosphere on the island. Fira is a tourist trap. Enjoy your days at the many wineries, different beaches, ancient city of Akrotyri ruins and try to see a movie at the little outdoor movie theatre. Santorini is such a special place and is romantic just in itself. I have fallen in love in Santorini.
One last thing. You will have to use cash for most every transaction especially dining. Greece is a cash economy. So don't hesitate when you see an ATM and you don't have any EURO on you.
Any questions or concerns please don't hesitate to ask.