Love is in the Air! Take a romantic gay-friendly adventure with your true love and enjoy a candle lit dinner by the see followed by a glass of fine wine. You and your partner will take a journey together to Athens, Santorini and Crete. Enjoy beautiful sunsets, amazing scenery and a romantic ambiance.
Greece has something even more important to offer to gay travelers: a distinctive and unique gay scene and mentality, which is different to every other country around the world.
Other island silhouettes on the horizon, a transparent sea lapping a sand or pebble shore, a congenial beach bar a few steps away... for many visitors, these are the essentials of a holiday in the Greek islands. Venture further inland, however, and you will find atmospheric villages and monasteries, world-class museums and a laid-back lifestyle pursued mostly in public.
Day 1 - Athens, Greece
Welcome to Greece! Upon arrival at Athens, Eleftherios Venizelos, International Airport, you will be greeted by an OUTstanding Travel Representative, who will assist with your luggage and escort you to your hotel Athens. The lovely aroma of creamy olive oil wraps around the streets. You can see the pristine pillars of the ancient city rising above you on Acropolis Hill. Enjoy a stroll along the Plaka, one of the oldest inhabited streets in Athens, where the polished cobblestones give a charming air to the neighborhood at the foothill of the Parthenon. Antiquated mansions line the pathways. The scent of traditional Greek recipes drift from the variety of restaurants, from roasted souvlaki to honeyed baklava. When the sun starts to set you can watch the Acropolis glow like the moon beneath the night sky.
Rest of the day at leisure, we suggest an evening at the Plaka, where you'll find typical Greek taverns.
Day 2 - Athens Tour - Santorini After your delicious breakfast, you will be met by your guide at your hotel for your walking Athens Tour.
Morning brings a comfortable shine over the city where today you will step out of your hotel and venture into the history of Athens. The streets are flush with contemporary and ancient archives, from the ground beneath your feet to strewn pillars rising over the cityscape. At the top of the Acropolis you will walk along marbled floors, the smooth and cool stone paving the entire plateau. The large pillars of the Propylaea are a reminder of the prosperity of the city and the prestige of the gods. Step through the entryway and find the famous Parthenon waiting on the other side. The temple was constructed to look perfect from all angles, as the entire city of Athens would look up in awe. That inspiring feeling as not changed over thousands of years. The pillars continue to give the temple an angle of perfection from every which way; the pediments are carved with myths of Athena, from her birth to her battle for Athens against Poseidon.
The marble of the Acropolis shimmers in the morning light as you descend the hill and proceed by private transfer to airport.
The plane soars through the air along the sensational waters of the Mediterranean, touching down on the island of Santorini. By the mid-afternoon you will be sitting along the celebrated cliffs of Santorini where the homes are whitewashed and blue roofed, the sapphire water sits comfortably within the caldera, highlighting the volcano’s peak and the surrounding islands. Your view is picture perfect, giving you the romantic light, the lovely sea, and the luxuries in which to enjoy it.
Day 3 - Santorini, Greece Morning washes over the island giving a pink hue to the whitewashed homes along the cliffs. Enjoy the delights of breakfast within your room or by the pool where the trickling water of the infinity pool is a soothing sound to wake to. The day is yours to do as you wish, whether basking in the sun watching the sparkling blue sea stretch into the distance, or exploring the charming villages along the caldera. There is a trail that leads from the capital, Fira, to the quintessential village of Oia on the northwest tip of the island. The path hugs the cliff side offering the best views of the island just for you. The breeze brushes through your hair. You can hear the water splash against the rocks below. In the distant curve of the island is the glistening village of Oia coming slowly closer. The scent of the sea rises from below and mixes with the arid mountainside. The tip of the volcano juts from the water. When you reach the marbled streets of Oia you can indulge in what feels like a private view of the caldera, where the afternoon sun lingers in the sky, and the perfume of fresh pastries fills the balcony.
Day 4 - Santorini, Greece Another perfect breakfast with a panorama of the Mediterranean is a grand way to start a day that is at your leisure. Explore Fira or enjoy a day wine tasting among the plethora of Santorini vineyards. You could also explore Akrotiri, the ancient city that is believed to be the location of the Lost City of Atlantis. The ruins have survived the test of time, covered in ash from a massive eruption over three thousand years ago. Stroll through the streets of the preserved site where ceramic vases continue to line the paths, some filled with traces of oil and fish. The reverence is hard to ignore, as you are able to understand the everyday life of the people within the ancient city of Akrotiri. Frescos continue to decorate homes, such as two boys boxing, or a boy back from fishing, their skin tan against the dark background where the colors continue to shine. One can see the unusually large dimensions of a three-story structure thought to be a public building. The persistence of the city is inspiring and the beauty of its remains against the backdrop of the Mediterranean is magnificent.
Day 5 - Santorini, Greece The calm morning beckons to you with promises of splendor. After your luxurious breakfast you will have a transfer to the marina where you will sail through the fabulous caldera that you have been watching for days. The view of the crescent shape of the island from within the caldera is as sensational as the view of the caldera from the island. The cool breeze brings with it the mist of the sea. The colors shift from turquoise to sapphire and back again, marvelous tricks of the sunlight. Disembark on the shore of the volcano and walk to its peak. Steam streams from small cracks in the rock face. Sit within the hot springs where the steam releases into the water, creating a comfortable and secluded area to bask in. The water turns from turquoise to royal blue, giving a dark but vibrant shade to the sea. The sun begins to drift across the sky and you arrive back on the cliffs of Santorini waiting for dusk.
Day 6 - Crete, Greece Enjoy the panorama of the horizon one last time at breakfast before you make your way to the port and board the hydrofoil set for Crete. The crescent island drifts into the distance and disappears beyond the horizon. Sailing along the Mediterranean brings the Venetian castle of Heraklion into view. The strong stones stand proud in front of the city on guard for centuries overlooking the sea. Upon your arrival in the capital of Crete transfer and check-in to your beautiful accommodation. Look out to the water and you can see the castle’s guard continuing against the crash of the sea against the rocks.
Day 7 - Crete, Greece The day is yours to find the treasures of Crete at your leisure, whether exploring the splendid beaches or the Samaria Gorge, the largest of the Greek Isles is at your whim and pleasure. The city of Chania in Western Crete is said to be one of the true jewels of the island. The colorful buildings wrap around the harbor like a mini Venice. The water is crystal clear, where you can see minnows swimming and the rocky ocean floor magnified by the sunlight. The edge of the city is adorned with the walls of a fortress that once watched over Chania protecting it from pirates and invaders. Across from the fortress stands the lighthouse that continues to offer guidance to fisherman and boats in the evening darkness. Stroll along the narrow paths of the winding, maze-like streets. The sky is barely visible beneath the sprawling bougainvillea and closely pressed buildings. Part of the romance of Chania is the seclusion of getting lost along the paths. Tiny restaurants fill the lanes with tables and the lovely scent of roasted meats cooked in a clay pot. When the sun starts to set the city lights up along the water’s edge glistening in the reflection of the Mediterranean.
Day 8 - Crete, Greece Just outside the center of Heraklion are the ruins of Knossos Minoan Palace. The ancient site is said to be the location of the notorious Minotaur whose story, at its core, is a heartfelt tale of love by Ariadne for Theseus. The decadence of the palace may no longer be in tact but the grandeur is no less present still. The large stones and precision that exists within the palace remains are extraordinary, including the colors once used on the frescos, and since refurbished. The Great Propylaea continues its tradition of greeting guests at the entrance of the palace in proud fashion with murals that represent the servants serving wine to visitors. The queen’s bath is adorned with dolphins sweeping across the walls. The sensation of the palace is in its very existence, where romantics can find beauty in the walls, the pillars, the colors, and the legend of the Minotaur.
Day 9 - Crete, Greece Your final day in Crete gives you the freedom to explore the island as you desire. Agios Nikolaos is a village along the eastern shores of the island that manages to blend the splendor of art, the beauty of leisure, and the serene balance of a seemingly sleepy yet bustling town. The small-town feel of Agios Nikolaos gives you an immediate connection to its charm. The buildings look over the lake and port, Kitroplatia beach and the marina. The lake is a deep lush blue connected to the sea by a narrow inlet. Cafes and restaurants surround the water and fill the air with a mixture of coffee, honey, melted cheese, and crepes. Stroll through the quaint streets or along the shore, either way you can be rest assured that your day in Crete is brimming with the majesty of the Mediterranean.
Day 10 - Heraklion, Crete / Departure After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Heraklion Airport, for your connecting flight to Athens, before flight back home with everlasting memories of Greece! Goodbye and Antío and see you soon.
Select from 3 different Athens, Santorini & Crete hotel combinations.
NJV Athens Plaza Hotel, Athens Stay at the luxurious NJV Athens Plaza, conveniently located in the heart of Athens in the historic Syntagma Square, and very close to the world-famous Acropolis. With over 30 years of rich history, the NJV Athens Plaza Hotel welcomes guests from across the globe to experience hospitality excellence at its finest.
The NJV Athens Plaza Classic rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated. Many guest rooms face Syntagma Square, the Acropolis and Stadiou Street. All of the rooms are soundproofed and feature free WiFi.
The Parliament gourmet restaurant specialises in Mediterranean cuisine, and enjoys a view to Stadiou Street. The Plaza Lounges offer an excellent variety of coffees and desserts. In the intimate wood-panelled surroundings of the Explorer's Lounge, guests can enjoy the atmosphere of old Athenian clubs, while sipping cocktails and tasting snacks. A breakfast and happy-hour drinks are available.
Dedicated to providing an unparalleled level of service, the NJV Athens Plaza Hotel features contemporary rooms and suites, with unique view to the Acropolis, pedestrian & classy Voukourestiou as well as Stadiou streets.
Ambassador Aegean Luxury Hotel & Suites, Santorini Ambassador is the ultimate Santorini escape; a cool haven of barefoot luxury that consists of breathtaking vistas, exciting architecture, impeccable service and signature details that transcend the expectations of even the most discerning guests, such as the private helipad.
Ambassador Santorini Hotel, an enclave of luxury and romance in Akrotiri, one of Santorini's least exploited areas, is located just a few minutes from the famous ancient settlement that attracts thousands of visitors every year. The stunning location of the villas is just the prelude to what can be summarized as the ultimate Santorini escape: a cool haven of barefoot luxury and pleasure that consists of breathtaking vistas, exciting architecture, sophisticated interiors and impeccable service.
Each of this Santorini hotel's 40 vaulted rooms, suites and villas boasts ample spaces, a private pool and will enthrall guests with front row seats to the island's world famous sunsets, as well as great panoramic views of the caldera, with villages comprised of traditional white cube houses scattered along the cliff's edge.
Guests may unwind and enjoy invigorating therapies at this Santorini hotel's sensational spa, explore the gastronomic wealth of the island's local cuisine at the resort restaurant or spend unique moments of total bliss marveling at the sunset and sipping on refreshing cocktails at the elegant pool bar.
Aldemar Royal Mare Resort, Crete Aldemar Royal Mare, a 5-star resort in Hersonissos of Crete, features all the attractions and comforts you would expect from a luxury hotel, along with top notch service. Spectacular sea views, landscaped gardens, turquoise pools and a private beach surround a realm of relaxation and the best Thalasso & Spa Centre worldwide! Enjoy a spirited game at our tennis club and discover the secrets of Cretan cuisine, with its exceptional ingredients and distinctive Mediterranean flavours.
The Aldemar Royal Mare Hotel Resort is ideally located on Anissaras beach which is a short distance from Hersonissos, Crete’s busier resort.
The main attraction for guests at the Aldemar Royal Mare Hotel Resort is the Royal Mare Thalasso Spa. The grand Spa covers 4.000 sqm and featuring treatment rooms, hydro pools/swimming pools, fitness and beauty centres. Hotel guests at the Aldemar Royal Mare Hotel Resort can also enjoy facilities that include 4 quartz tennis courts with centre court, a number of swimming pools and beach volleyball. Guests have a selection of a la carte and buffet restaurants to choose from.
NJV Athens Plaza Hotel in Athens (City View room), Ambassador Aegean Luxury Hotel in Santorini (Deluxe suite), Aldemar Royal Mare Resort Hotel in Crete (Bungalow GV)
Double Occupancy: from €2,955 EUR per person
Private Single Room: from €4,490 EUR
Periscope Hotel, Athens Periscope Hotel in Athens is an experimental foray into contemplation, characterized by minimalist shapes and contemporary style. Located high above the up-market shopping streets of the cosmopolitan quarter Kolonaki, Dakis Joannou's art-filled Periscope urges guests to explore their thoughts on modern-day surveillance. Guests can feel a kind of periscopic control over the entire property, from the top floor to the lounge bar.
Art is present outside Periscope Hotel, too. On the right wall of the building’s façade a magnificent work of art reproduces the movement of the shadows cast by the surrounding buildings: the effect is stunning. Inside, huge screens show dystopian images of an Athens stalked by giant three-dimensional animals, while on the main staircase trunk, a kind of primitive altimeter tracks your journey to bed, showing you how high you are above sea level with every step.
Periscope rooms and suites are soundproofed with wooden floors. Each comes with a flat-screen TV, CD and DVD library, and pillow menu. The modern bathrooms are stocked with luxurious toiletries, bathrobes and slippers.
Within walking distance, you will find some of the most exclusive boutiques, jewelry shops and art galleries of the city. Evangelismos Metro Station is 400 m away, while the central Syntagma Square is at 1 km. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout.
Astra Suites, Santorini Perched atop the most stunning volcanic cliffs of Santorini, resembling a quaint Cycladic village, discover the Astra Suites hotel of peaceful Imerovigli village in Santorini, Greece! Breathtaking panoramic views of the mysterious caldera, a sleeping volcano, and the endless blue Aegean sea, Astra Suites is now listed in the Top 25 Hotels of the World.
Relax on your luxurious suite's balcony, some featuring your very own private heated swimming pool or jacuzzi for the ultimate in romance, with our extraordinary service and amenities designed to spoil you! Enjoy our stunning infinity pool area and pool bar, and partake in our restorative spa delights, delectable gourmet cuisine and unique honeymoon treats, and we're quite sure you may never want to leave!
Due to its positioning right in the middle of the 30 Km long Caldera cliff, Imerovigli will serve as the best base for your excursions to the top beaches of the island. Another big plus is that both the capital Fira and the atmospheric settlement of Oia at the northernmost peak of the moon–shaped island of Santorini, are easily accessible.
Rooms are all high ceilings, arty ornaments and candles perched on every available surface; add in the giant his ’n’ hers shower, a four-poster bed and an outrageously comfortable sofa in the lounge area and you have a ready-made excuse for permanent room service.
Hersonissos Maris Hotel, Crete This property is 1 minute walk from the beach. Situated by the sandy beach, Hersonissos Maris Hotel offers indoor and outdoor pools, gym and tennis court. All accommodation features balconies or terraces overlooking the Cretan Sea or hotel gardens.
Air-conditioned units are equipped with satellite TV and fridge. Some rooms have direct access to a shared swimming pool. Maisonettes feature a private pool with hot tub.
Thalassa Snack Bar offers light meals and drinks by the sea. A buffet breakfast is served daily at Alexander poolside restaurant. During lunch and dinner, Cretan and international dishes are offered.
Wellness options include a fully equipped fitness centre, a sauna and Turkish bath. Free Wi-Fi access is available in public areas. The centre of Hersonissos is within a 15-minute walk.
Periscope Hotel in Athens (Standard room), Astra Suites in Santorini (Studio), Hersonissos Maris Hotel in Crete (Standard room)
Double Occupancy: from €2,460 EUR per person
Private Single Room: from €3,680 EUR
Cypria Hotel, Athens The Athens Cypria Hotel is a friendly, quiet and cozy 4 Star property. Ideally situated in the heart of Athens approximately 150 meters from Syntagma Square offers a fine base for exploring all the city's attractions.
One of the most well-known shopping places in the city, Ermou Street, is adjacent to the hotel, whereas the old town of Plaka and Acropolis are just a few minutes walk away. Psiry area, the most well-known place in Athens for night entertainment, is also within easy walking distance, where Greek Restaurants and Taverns, Bars and Theatres are found.
The hotel consists of 115 rooms which have been specially designed to ensure guest personal comfort and relaxation. Most of them have balconies and some with a view to Acropolis.
The rooms are equipped with air-condition / heating, fully stocked mini-bar (consumption charged), high speed internet access (free of charge), satellite TV, electronically locked safe-box (free of charge), direct dial telephone, radio and hairdryer.
The American buffet breakfast is served in the breakfast room at 7 a.m. till 10.30 a.m with freshly prepared hot and cold breakfast selections.
Cliff Side Suites, Santorini Cliff Side Suites are newly renovated and refurbished as they stand on the natural rim where the most enchanting and fascinating sunset of the world is happening. Cliff Side Suites pay great respect to the Aegean architectural style and the complex promotes the design and comfort of locality along with a blissful merge of pleasant colors. The white of the walls is combined perfectly with the colors on the doors and the windows creating a magic environment to stay and feel Santorini’s higher state of style and hospitality.
Cliff Side Suites are carefully designed and tastefully decorated for every kind of visitor that wants to experience the real Santorinian accommodation in Cliff Side Suites. Spacy and comfortable rooms can accommodate you and your special one.
Days and nights in Cliff Side Suites can be full of experiences, but still peaceful when it comes to relaxation. Enjoy your breakfast in the fascinating breakfast room, and then lie at the on-the-edge-of-the-rim swimming pool with views to the Caldera and feel the vibrations of the sun as you are finding the true meaning of your holidays, the happiness of being in one of the best places in Santorini. If you seek more of total calmness then all spa services including outdoor heated jacuzi and massage bed will be at your service.
Porto Village Hotel, Crete Boasting an outdoor pool and set amidst a well-tended garden, Porto Village Hotel is located in Korakia village, Hersonissos. It offers self-catered accommodation, a restaurant and free Wi-Fi in public areas. The nearest beach is 800 m away.
All units at Porto Village open out to a balcony with Cretan Sea or inland views. Each features a kitchenette with cooking hobs and fridge, and a TV. The private bathroom comes with shower or bath.
Guests can enjoy their meals at the on-site restaurant or have a refreshing drink from the bar. Bars, cafes and restaurants lie within 900 m and a super market can be found at a distance of 500 m.
Hersonissos centre is 400 m away and a bus stop lies within 300 m. Herakleio International Airport can be reached at 25 km and Herakleio Port is 30 km away.
Cypria Hotel in Athens (Standard room), Cliff Side Suites in Santorini (Superior room), Porto Village Hotel in Crete (Studio LV)
Double Occupancy: from €2,290 EUR per person
Private Single Room: from €3,490 EUR
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