Ansonia High School - Athens, Santorini and Crete
Program Dates: April 6-15, 2026
Continue reading below for day-to-day activities!
Flight Details:
Outbound Travel — Monday, April 6
New York (JFK) → Zurich (ZRH)
Flight: Swiss Airlines #17
Departure: 4:15 PM - Arrival: 6:10 AM (+1 day)
Zurich (ZRH) → Athens (ATH)
Flight: Swiss Airlines #1830
Departure: 9:25 AM - Arrival: 1:10 PM
Return Travel — Wednesday, April 15
Heraklion (HER) → Zurich (ZRH)
Flight: Swiss Airlines #8349
Departure: 10:30 AM - Arrival: 12:30 PM
Zurich (ZRH) → New York (JFK)
Flight: Swiss Airlines #14
Departure: 1:20 PM - Arrival: 4:35 PM
Hotel Details:
Athens - April 7-10, 2026
Hotel Gallery Central Piraeus
Kapodistriou 33,
Piraeus 185 31, Greece
+30 21 0300 3922
Santorini - April 10-12, 2026
Iliada Hotel
PERIVOLOS,
Santorini 847 03, Greece
+30 2286 082090
Heraklion - April 12-15, 2026
Hotel Olympic
43, Pl. Kornarou
Iraklio 712 01, Greece
+30 281 028 8861
Day 1 - Departure Day
Board your overnight flight to Athens, Greece.
Day 2 - Athens
Arrive in Athens. After collecting your luggage and clearing customs you’ll meet your local Program Director, and board your private motor coach to transfer to your centrally located hotel. This afternoon, take an orientation walking tour before your welcome dinner.
Day 3 - Athens
Today, explore the ancient heart of Athens with a guided visit to the Acropolis. Walk among some of the most important monuments of classical Greece, including the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike, while taking in sweeping views over the modern city below. Along the way, learn how these structures shaped ideas of democracy, art, and architecture that still influence the world today. In the afternoon, visit a local sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation center, where you’ll learn about endangered Mediterranean sea turtles, the threats they face, and the conservation efforts underway to protect them. This visit offers a meaningful look at modern Greece’s commitment to environmental stewardship and wildlife protection. This evening, enjoy an immersive night of Greek culture with a traditional dinner featuring local cuisine, live music, and dance—bringing together ancient history and contemporary Greek life in a memorable way.
Day 4 - Athens
This morning, embark on a day cruise of the Saronic Islands, know for thier art, culture and natural beauty. You’ll visit Aegina, which is known for it’s ancient ruins and charming town, next stop will be Poros, know for it’s neoclassical buildings, vibrant harbor, and clock tower, your final stop will be on Hydra, a car-free islands, were you will tour the island’s narrow streets, art galleries and well preserved architecture. Lunch is included and served on board.
Day 5 - Santorini
This morning, take a ferry to picture perfect Santorini - known as The Black Pearl of the Aegean. You’ll head to the southern part of the island to visit the archaelopligical site of Akrotiri, an ancient Minoan city preserved in volcanic ash. Explore the well-preserved ruins and learn about life in this Bronze Age settlement. Tonight, we’ll visit Oia Castle to watch the world-famous Santorini sunset.
Day 6 - Santorini
Today, depart from Old Port and take a boat trip to Nea Kameni, the island’s active volcano. Hike to the crater and learn about the island’s volcanic history. Later, visit the hot springs on Palea Kameni, where you can swim in the warm waters. This afternoon, take a walk through Fira, and see it’s whitewashed buildings and blue domed churches.
Day 7 - Crete
Your journey continues by sea as you board a ferry to the island of Crete. Known for it’s incredible ruins and breathtaking beaches, Crete is the largest and most populous island in Greece. This afternoon, take a walking tour of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. You’ll visit the old town, and see the Venetian Fortress, Morosini Fountain, Loggia and have some time to shop the many bustling markets.
Day 8- Crete
An excursion today takes you to one of the most well preserved medieval cities in Greece - Rethymno and the traditonal village of Vamos. Take a walking tour of Rethymno Old Town, visit the Venetian Harbor, the Rimondi Fountain, and the Fortezza to take in the panoramic view of the town and sea. Next, travel to Vamos, visit the olive oil factory and learn about the traditional methods of olive oil production. Later, meet with locals and learn about their customs and traditions over an included lunch. Tonight, dinner will be on your own.
Day 9 – Crete
Enjoy a relaxed and immersive final day on Crete. Spend the morning at a nearby beach, soaking in the Mediterranean sun and enjoying time by the sea. Later, return to town for free time to shop for local crafts, olive oil, textiles, and souvenirs. In the afternoon or early evening, take part in a hands-on Cretan cooking class, where you’ll learn to prepare traditional dishes using fresh, local ingredients—followed by a shared meal together. This evening, gather for your group’s farewell dinner celebration, reflecting on your journey through Greece.
Day 10 - Departure Day
Transfer to the airport for return flight to the USA.
What’s Included:
Roundtrip Airfare
Accommodations
Teacher Leaders
Full Time Local Program Director
Transportation to Included Activities
Breakfast and Dinner (except on day 8), Lunch included on Day 4 and 8.
All Attractions and Activities
Guided Sightseeing by Local Expert Guides
All Tips and Gratuities
24-Hour Support
All Taxes and Fees
Global Citizen Certificate
Pre-Travel Preparation Meetings
