GREEK ISLAND ODYSSEY
From ancient city wonders to the very best of the Cyclades, join us as we island hop from Athens to Santorini and back.
Starts at: Athens
Ends at: Athens
Duration: 9 days
Group Size: Maximum 18
Physical Rating: Light
Style: Discovery
About Your Trip
Embrace the many facets of what makes Greece such a dreamy summer destination across nine days of city touring and island hopping with our Local Insider. In Athens, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of the Acropolis and discover lively modern neighborhoods adorned with impressive graffiti and thriving food scenes. Then we set sail for the Cyclades, heading first to Naxos, where you’ll get a glimpse into the quaint beauty of the island’s laid-back approach to life. Finally, we hop across to Santorini, home to an iconic whitewashed skyline and arguably the prettiest sunset on the planet.
Trip Highlights
- Visit the Parthenon with a guided tour of the Acropolis
- Discover vibrant street art and charming markets of Athens on a city walking tour
- Relax on the stunning beaches of Naxos and Santorini
- Engage with locals and learn about Naxian culture on an authentic village tour
- Explore the iconic whitewashed buildings of Fira
- Experience one of the world’s greatest sunsets with a picnic view in Santorini
Your Itinerary
Your journey begins at the city centre hotel in Athens, where you can enjoy free time to explore the surrounding area. At around 6pm, gather with your group to meet our Local Insider – your expert guide for the trip – in the hotel lobby. After introductions, head over to a nearby rooftop restaurant for cocktails and an assortment of small plates.
Accommodation: Brown Spices (or similar)
Activities Included: Welcome dinner
After breakfast, spend the morning on a private guided tour of Athens, including the iconic Acropolis and the Ancient Agora. Wander down magical little alleyways, explore the old neighborhood of Anafiotika, and browse locally-produced goods in a food market and Monastiraki flea market. This extensive tour wraps up mid-afternoon, allowing you the rest of the day to explore at your own pace.
Accommodation: Brown Spices (or similar)
Activities Included: Guided walking tour of Athens
The next day, set sail on our island-hopping journey with an early breakfast before heading to the port for a ferry to the magical island of Naxos. Despite being the largest isle in the Cyclades, and one of the most beautiful in Greece, Naxos remains relatively undiscovered, offering a laid-back vibe representative of Greek life. After checking into your hotel in Naxos City, spend the afternoon getting acquainted with its charming cobbled streets and beaches.
Accommodation: Argo Boutique Hotel
Activities Included: Ferry to Naxos
This morning, embark on an enlightening tour across Naxos, guided by your Local Insider. Discover picturesque villages and meet locals, tasting delicious culinary treats and learning about their cultural quirks. Wrap up the tour mid-afternoon and consider spending some time at the beach.
Accommodation: Argo Boutique Hotel
Activities Included: Villages of Naxos tour (lunch included)
The following morning, hop on the ferry to Paros, an island celebrated for its stunning beaches and rich history. Explore Parikia and visit Panagia Ekatontapiliani, an important Christian monument. Then head to Naousa with its cobbled streets and traditional market, and enjoy some sun at Agios Nikolaos beach. Note: for 2024 departures, this day includes a Catamaran tour with lunch and visits to the Blue Lagoon and hidden beaches.
Accommodation: Argo Boutique Hotel
Activities Included: Day trip to Paros (2025 departures); Paros Catamaran tour (2024 departures only)
Next, ferry to Santorini, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. After checking in, enjoy an orientation walk of Fira, marveling at its classic architecture before enjoying free time to explore.
Accommodation: Nissos Thira
Activities Included: Ferry to Santorini; Orientation walk of Fira
After breakfast, enjoy more leisure time or opt for a scenic coastal walk. Later, join our Local Insider for a tour of Santorini’s best viewpoints, concluding with a relaxing picnic as you watch the iconic sunset – an experience not to be missed.
Accommodation: Nissos Thira
Activities Included: Sunset picnic experience
As your trip draws to a close, we will ferry back to Athens. After checking into your hotel, enjoy time for last-minute sightseeing before a farewell dinner at a local Athenian restaurant.
Accommodation: Brown Spices
Activities Included: Ferry to Athens; Farewell dinner
After a final breakfast, it’s time to part ways, marking the end of your Greek island-hopping adventure. With cherished memories, consider extending your Mediterranean explorations elsewhere.
What’s Included
- 8 nights boutique hotel accommodation
- Private and local transport
- 8 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 2 dinners
- Local Insider guide
- Ferry travel between Athens, Naxos, and Santorini
- Guided walking tour of Athens
- Villages of Naxos tour
- Day trip to Paros (2025 departures)
- Paros Catamaran tour (2024 departures only)
- Orientation walk of Fira
- Santorini sunset picnic experience
What’s Not Included
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Flights to and from the destination
Customer Reviews
Average Customer Rating: 4.6/5
Independent Service Rating based on 153 verified reviews.
Accommodation
Brown Spices
Argo Boutique Hotel
Nissos Thira
Covid Safety
Your safety and wellbeing are our top priority, so we’ve implemented the following measures on all trips:
- Average group size is 10 (max 18) to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Utilization of small boutique accommodations to minimize exposure to other travelers.
- Requirements for accommodation providers to maintain and share hygiene protocols.
- Exclusive activities for our group whenever feasible.
- Potential requirement for Covid-19 negative test results or vaccination certificates.
Important Information
- Differences exist between the 2024 and 2025 itineraries; any inquiries are welcomed.
- Participants must be 25 years or older.
- Visa requirements vary by destination; please check accordingly.
- Notify Customer Support about any medical conditions or accessibility needs.
- Single travelers will be paired in twin rooms with travelers of the same gender.
- Travel insurance is mandatory for all travelers.
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