Runway to Road: Athens - Heraklion and Rethymnon (Crete Island)

Athens captures the heart of its visitors. It's the capital city, vibrant and exciting, worldly and chic, a city that attacks the senses. It offers art, culture, world-class museums, charming neighborhoods, exceptional food, lively people and glorious ancient gems such as the Acropolis and the iconic Parthenon. This city has it all and we promise you, it won't disappoint.

Explore the Acropolis, Parthenon, Temple of Nike, Hadrian's Gate, National Archaeological Museum, Greek Ancient Art Museum, Byzantine Museum, Temple of Poseidon, The Plaka, Syntagma Square, House of Parliament and so much more!

Founded in 824 AD by Arabic Muslim people, Heraklion is home to the world's only comprehensive collection of Minoan artifacts. It has magnificent fortified walls and several other testimonies to the Venetians' time in power. Heraklion is close to the ruins of the palace of Knossos, which in Minoan times was the biggest center of population on Crete. Home to Crete's largest city, Heraklion, as well as immense ruins scattered throughout the region, this prefecture draws attention from history lovers and young travelers looking for the island's nightlife.

Visit and explore the Minoan Palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, the archaeological site of Gortyn, Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Cretaquarium, Fortress of Koules, the caves of Matala, lovely beaches, charming villages and so much more.

Rethymnon is located on the western side of Crete, between Chania and Heraklion. It is full of magnificent beaches, interesting archaeological sites, Byzantine churches, lovely villages and lively resorts. Rethymnon Town is the capital, a town with medieval architecture and a lovely Venetian port. Walk around the Old Town and explore the stone paths, the elegant mansions, the lovely arches and certainly the Venetian port. This is the most popular spot of the town, lined by delicious restaurants and nice cafeterias. Above the town, there is an imposing medieval castle called Fortezza. The northern and southern coasts are dotted with fabulous beaches. Bali, Panormos and Adelianos Kampos on the northern side get pretty popular in summer, while Plakias and Agia Galini are the most popular places on the southern side.

Visit and explore The Fortezza, Venetian Lotzia, Nerantze Mosque, Monastery of Preveli, Ideon Cave, Eleftherna, beautiful beaches, charming villages, glorious mountains and so much more.