Greece Island Tour

Good morning! Our experienced guide will warmly welcome you at the hotel lobby at the agreed time after breakfast and start today’s Athens city tour with you. Your first stop will be the Acropolis. With a history of 3,000 years, it is the most famous ancient building complex in Greece and the center of religious politics. The main existing relics include the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon and the Erechtheion. Parthenon is the most famous spot of the Acropolis and represents the highest level of ancient Greek architecture. According to the ancient Greek legend, Athena, goddess of wisdom, and Poseidon, god of the sea, both wanted to be the namesake and patron saint of the city of Athens, thus they engaged in a contest to determine the victor. Using her olive branch implying peace, Athena defeated Poseidon using a horse implying war. Then, the Athenians built the Parthenon for Athena as a tribute to their guardian. Next, the modern building Acropolis Museum, which preserves many ancient artifacts from and around the Acropolis, will also be visited.
► Tips:
1. Wear a hat and use sunscreen, as the Acropolis is exposed to scorching sun.
2. The marble floor of the Acropolis is quite slippery, please wear slip-resistant sneakers.
3. The floor of the Acropolis Museum is mostly made of glass, and ladies are advised not to wear skirts.

Coming out of the Acropolis, tour the nearby Panathenaic Stadium. In ancient times, it was often used to hold the Panathenaic Games to commemorate the goddess Athena. To host the first modern Olympic Games, the horseshoe-shaped stadium was rebuilt on the ruins of the ancient Greek stadium in 1895. It is the only stadium in the world built entirely of marble. Feel free to go for a run around the track and view the torches of previous Olympic Games in the museum inside the stadium. In addition, the monument on the west side of the entrance to the venue is engraved with the time and location of the previous Olympic Games. Don’t forget to take photos to record this glory if the name of your country is on it.

Next, your private guide and driver will lead you to visit the Hellenic Parliament (exterior), the National Library of Greece, the Presidential Palace and the Presidential Guard. The Presidential Guard is primarily responsible for safeguarding the Presidential Palace and the Monument to the Unknown Soldier in front of the Hellenic Parliament. The changing of the guard ceremony begins at 10 am every day and takes place on the hour. A large-scale one is arranged every Sunday at 11 am, accompanied by a military band and honor guard performance. You would definitely marvel at the soldiers' entertaining and synchronized movements. Plus, their uniforms are eye-catching, too. After the ceremony, you can take photos with them, but please maintain a respectful distance.

In the afternoon, take a 1.5-hour drive to the Cape Sounion to admire the magnificent sunset of the Aegean Sea. During the way, immerse yourself in the unparalleled sea view. It’s windy on the coast, so it would be advisable to bring a coat. After arriving, follow the guide to visit the Temple of Poseidon. As it’s located on the edge of a cliff, be careful and stay away from the edge. At the end of the day, your private driver will send you back to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Brown Acropol, Athens (4 stars) or similar

Today you are sailing to Mykonos! After breakfast, the driver will transfer you to the port and you’re going to take a 6-hour boat to Mykonos. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and you’ll have the whole afternoon to yourself. The most distinctive feature of Mykonos is its unique style of architecture, with white walls, colorful doors, windows, and balconies. Such strong visual impact and color contrast make this place unforgettable.

► Recommended Restaurant for Lunch: Avli Tou Thodori
This restaurant, less than 100-meter away from the hotel, has a great location on the beach. Book a table on the beach so you can enjoy the cozy moment of eating on the sand while enjoying the stunning sea view. You’re highly recommended to order the traditional Greek food Moussaka and Greek salad, and the salmon tartare and ceviche are also great. The staff will serve you with free desserts such as fresh fruit or pizza dough balls with ice cream and Nutella. It generally costs €25-30 per person.

► Recommended Activities for Your Free Afternoon:
Mykonos is often dubbed "Windmill Island" for its iconic thatch-roofed Cyclades windmills. Take a 10-minute taxi ride from your hotel to the Windmills of Kato Mili halfway up the mountain, where you can enjoy a panoramic perspective of Mykonos’ distinctive white houses and see the seagulls flying over the Aegean Sea. Continue with a 10-minute walk northeast to the Boni’s Windmill, another excellent spot for panoramic views of the Aegean coast. Explore the open-air Mykonos Agricultural Museum here and step inside a well-preserved running windmill to learn about the traditional milling process that was once vital to the local economy. As the sun begins to set, take a leisurely 10-minute stroll northeast to the 180° Sunset Bar (reservations recommended). Order a cocktail and savor the pleasant atmosphere. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the breathtaking sunset at the bar’s famous stone arch. It is windy on the island especially at night, so it is recommended to bring a coat.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Petinos Hotel, Mykonos (4 stars) or similar

This is a whole free day for you to fully enjoy this island. You can either enjoy the island on your own pace or refer to our itinerary suggestions.

Ask the hotel reception to help you book an island hopping tour to Delos and Rineia. According to the Greek legend, Delos is the birthplace of Apollo, the sun god, and Artemis, the moon god. Admire the Greek- and Roman-styled ruins on the island. Walking through the stone buildings like ancient temples and theaters, deeply immerse yourself in the time-honored history and rich culture. Rineia is a paradise for snorkelers and swimmers. Dive into the sea and explore the crystal underwater world.
► Tips:
1. Bring sunscreen and sunglasses to avoid sunburn.
2. Bring some snacks and drinking water as there’s few restaurant.
3. You’re going to visit the entire Delos on foot, so please wear comfortable sneakers.

After the cruise, go to Paradise Beach to feel the vibrant part of Mykonos. During the day, it is the perfect place for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling. While at night, the beach is bursting with vitality and turns into the paradise for the young, full of all kinds of beach music parties. The beach is surrounded with so many restaurants and bars with different specialties. Enjoy a meal at the Nikos Gallop Restaurant, where the pasta, steamed shrimps, tomato and cucumber salad and tasty fruit wine are highly recommended. Wear slippers to avoid hurting by the small rocks on the beach.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Petinos Hotel, Mykonos (4 stars) or similar

Today you’re sailing 3 hours to the well-known island Santorini! Before heading to the port, the morning is all yours. You can leisurely relax at the hotel or seize the last moment to explore the mystery of Mykonos.
★ Note: There will be no passenger ships between Mykonos and Santorini from mid-April to mid-October, as well as 1st Jan. Feel free to contact us to tailor the itinerary for you if you plan to visit Greece then.

► Recommendations for Free Morning in Mykonos
After breakfast, book a taxi online heading to Little Venice, which takes less than 15 minutes to arrive. Venetian structures can be seen everywhere in this clean town. Stroll around and appreciate the rows of white houses with brightly colored windows, stairs and balconies. Then, walk 2 minutes west and see for yourself Mykonos's most famous white church, Paraportiani Church, which you may have seen on a postcard. Based on four chapels, the upper main part has a beautiful dome and bell tower that form a dramatic outline against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea. The irregular shape of the white church has earned it another two adorable names - "Marshmallow Church" and "Cream Church".

► Free Time Suggestions upon Arrival in Santorini
You'll arrive in Santorini around 3:30 pm. After settling into the hotel, take some time to explore the nearby town of Fira on your own. The town is famous for its blue-roofed churches, white buildings and spectacular views of the Aegean Sea. Ride a donkey along the cliff road. Visit the archaeological museum and art galleries, and admire the sunset along the sea path. Fira is also a paradise to shop, with many exquisite small shops selling a variety of handicrafts and Greek souvenirs, as well as olive oil and wine. Delicious food can’t be missed, too. Grab a refreshing frozen yogurt at Chillbox, and then head out for dinner at Pelican Kipos cafe and wine restaurant, a garden restaurant in Fira. Fresh seafood, authentic Greek salad and mouth-watering grilled meat are the ultimate culinary delights. Grilled octopus and squid, aubergine baked dish, Santorini salad, aubergine dip, slow-cooked lamb dish and chocolate soufflé are all good choices.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Philippion Boutique Hotel, Santorini (4 stars) or similar

Get prepared to explore the mystery of the Volcano of Santorini this morning! From the pick-up point, the bus driver will escort you to Athinios Port and then you’ll be taken by wooden boat to the first port of call today. This volcanic island was formed after several eruptions, appearing in crimson. Everything on the island, from the vegetation to the scenery, is different from the main island. You will hike in the craters at the volcanic islands of Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, and go to the hot spring and swim in the orange sulphur waters.
► Tips:
1. There is no shoal near the hot spring, so you have to dive into the sea and swim to the hot spring. Make sure you’re highly skilled in water.
2. Because it is a sulphur spring, do not wear light-colored clothes, otherwise they’ll get dyed. Bring yourself a towel.
3. It’s dry and easily get sun burnt on the island, so you’d better take enough drinking water and use sunscreen.

Then return to the boat and head to the Therasia Island, where the traditional village of Manolas will definitely give you a different experience. It takes hundreds of stairs to get to the village and you’re recommended to wear comfortable shoes. Have lunch there and take a break. Later, let’s return to the main island of Santorini.

Continue sailing towards the charming town of Oia. By around 5 pm, Oia will be bathed in the golden hues of a breathtaking sunset. Its blue-domed churches and white buildings make a great backdrop for you to take photos. Stroll the narrow streets or ride a donkey and admire the craft shops and art galleries. The tour usually ends 30 minutes after sunset and the bus driver will take you back to the pick-up point.
► Recommended Photo Spots in Oia:
1. 3 Domes Viewpoint: a sought-after spot for the trio of white churches with blue domes.
2. Kastro Oia Houses: a hotel featuring Instagram-famous orange buildings.
3. Oia Lookout Panoramic Viewpoint: perfect for capturing the white architectural complex.
4. Castle of Oia: best spot for sunset and panoramic views.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Philippion Boutique Hotel, Santorini (4 stars) or similar

We'll leave the leisurely morning for you to explore this fantastic island. And then take a boat back to Athens which takes about 7.5 hours. Your private driver will send you to the port of Santorini at the agreed time in the afternoon (around 15:30). You’ll be arriving late at around 23:00, and then be picked up at the port and sent to the hotel by our private driver.
★ Note: If you prefer to avoid a long boat ride, our travel consultants can help you upgrade to a Santorini-to-Athens flight, which takes approximately 50 minutes.

► Recommended Activities for the Free Morning in Santorini:
In this cozy morning, consider a trip to Kamari Beach, which is known for its unique black volcanic sand. Fully equipped with umbrellas and loungers for rent, changing rooms and shower facilities, this place is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. So many restaurants and bars alongside the beach are available for you to enjoy delicious food and drinks.
* How to get there: Bus is available from the station a 15-minute-walk north of your hotel. It takes 20 minutes and costs 2 euros (cash only). Or you can use a ride-hailing app like FreeNow, Uber, or Taxiplon to order a car to get there in 15 minutes for around 20 euros.

A wine tasting tour is another great choice. Santorini is renowned for its wines, especially the Assyrtiko, a kind of white wine. Santo Wines Winery is well known throughout the island, and it opens at 9 am. Order a taxi and you’ll get there in less than 10 minutes. While tasting wine, enjoy the stunning sea view and learn about the wine-making process.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Brown Acropol, Athens (4 stars) or similar

Today is your departure day. Hope you enjoyed every moment with us. Your private driver will pick you up at the hotel lobby on time and escort you to the Athens International Airport. Wish you a pleasant journey home! If you still want to travel somewhere else, please feel free to let us know.

► Free Time Suggestion:
Take a 15-minute walk southwest from the hotel to visit the Hadrian's Library, which was modeled after the architectural style of the Roman Forum. Imagine the grand scale of the time through the intact main entrance and some rooms of the ruins. Then take a 3-minute walk south to the Roman Agora, which was originally a meeting place and market for citizens. The Tower of the Winds inside the agora, an octagonal marble tower, is now relatively well preserved and worth seeing. Next to the agora, lies a mountain road leading to the Acropolis. There are many shops and restaurants along the road, selling a variety of unique souvenirs. Fish out some interesting local specialties before leaving.

Meals: Breakfast