Crete Pre-Voyage Extension

Fly to Heraklion, the capital of Crete, and tour the city’s Archaeological Museum, home to the world’s most impressive collection of Minoan artifacts, including jewelry, pottery and frescoes. This evening, visit Arolithos Traditional Cretan Village, modeled after a historical island town to depict daily life of both rural and affluent classes. Prepare authentic Cretan dishes at a cooking class and then sit down to a dinner featuring your creations. You’ll also peruse the town museum, with exhibits on the daily life, traditions and folklore of Crete. (B,L,D)

Today, get immersed in the history of King Minos during a visit to the reconstructed Palace of Knossos, the largest and most spectacular of all Minoan palaces and an excellent illustration of the impressive advancements made by the Minoans. See the royal living quarters, a theater and workshops, and gain unique insight into Europe’s oldest known civilization. Following your visit to Knossos, experience the archaeological site and rolling hills of Archanes and have lunch at the renovated, modern-day village by the same name. This afternoon, choose to go on a hike or visit an olive oil farm for a tasting and a history lesson on the olive grove. (B,L,D)

Explore the Plateau of Lassithi, a patchwork of green hemmed in on all sides by the Diktean Mountains. Continue to the village of Psychro and the mythical birthplace of Zeus—the Diktean Cave. Rich in stalagmites and stalactites, the cavern is one of the most beautiful of Crete’s more than 3,000 caves. Tackle the steep climb to the entrance, then make the steep but short descent into the cave. Later, return to the Lassithi Plateau to visit the Lasinthos Eco Park, showcasing Cretan arts and crafts, and enjoy a lunch of local specialties. This evening, indulge in a delicious Greek dinner at a restaurant overlooking Heraklion’s Venetian port and the illuminated castle of Koule. (B,L,D)

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Athens. Upon arrival, join the main expedition, which embarks in Lavrio. (B,L,D)