Highlights of Greece: The Land of Gods and Goddesses
9
Days
This captivating 9-day journey through Greece begins with an arrival in Athens, where travelers dive into ancient history and vibrant culture. After settling in, guests can explore iconic sites like the Acropolis, Plaka, and Syntagma Square. The following day features an immersive walking tour of Athens’ historic neighborhoods, capped with a hands-on cooking class featuring traditional Greek cuisine.
Next, the adventure continues on the glamorous island of Mykonos, famous for its lively atmosphere, sun-soaked beaches, and charming Old Town. Guests will enjoy an afternoon hike followed by a refreshing swim at a secluded beach, then spend the next day sailing along the crystal-clear waters, making stops at hidden gems and indulging in a locally-inspired onboard lunch.
Santorini, renowned for its stunning sunsets and dramatic caldera views, is the next stop. Upon arrival, travelers will set off on a sunset wine tour, tasting volcanic wines at traditional wineries. The following day, they’ll explore Santorini’s charming villages, including a visit to the ancient site of Akrotiri and a picturesque afternoon in Oia.
The trip concludes back in Athens, with a final evening spent enjoying a panoramic tour of the illuminated Acropolis and a lively dinner in Plaka. Guests return home with unforgettable memories of Greece’s history, islands, and cuisine.
Highlights
-
Private Best of Athens Walking Tour and Cooking Experience
-
Private Afternoon Hiking and Swim in Mykonos Tour
-
Shared Mykonos Sailing Tour
-
Small Group Tour: Santorini Sunset Wine Adventure
-
Private Full Day Santorini Villages, Akrotiri, and Village of Oia Tour
-
Shared Tour: A Night Out in Athens
Itinerary Details
Day 1 - 3
International Arrival
Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel
2 Nights
Athens
Discover the capital of Greece, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern life. While the Acropolis towering over the cityscape is the star attraction, there is plenty more to Athens to discover. Archaeological sites such as the gigantic Hadrian's Gate and the ancient Agora are strewn across the city, alongside architectural monuments such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which commemorates Greek troops killed in war. This is also the main center of learning in all of Greece, thanks to the Academy, Athens University, and the National Library, where archaeologists, historians, and scholars converge. Museums and attractions aside, Athens' hip neighborhoods are memorable too with their vibrant street art, artisanal boutiques, and cafes, and a thriving food and nightlife scene. The cobbled streets of Plaka lead straight up to the Acropolis, while Monastiraki Square offers the perfect spot for people-watching all day long. At Syntagma Square, visitors can witness the symbolic Changing of the Guards ceremony and then picnic in the vast botanical gardens next door. Visit Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views of this bustling metropolis, or escape with a day trip to nearby beaches, port towns, and the lush Attica peninsula.
Included activities
Day 1: Arrive in Greece!
Today marks the start of travelers' Greece adventure with an exciting arrival in ancient Athens! Once guests have settled into their hotel, they’ll have the opportunity to explore iconic sites like the Acropolis, Plaka neighborhood, and Syntagma Square, soaking in the rich history and culture of Athens. Tomorrow they'll enjoy a private 'best of Athens' walking tour followed by a cooking class and lunch.
Day 2: The Best of Athens
Today travelers get a deep dive into the ancient monuments and iconic neighborhoods of Athens, topped off with a delicious and memorable cooking experience and lunch. Tomorrow they'll depart this ancient city for the island of Mykonos!
Private Best of Athens Walking Tour and Cooking Experience
The tour begins at the base of Acropolis Hill, where a local expert warmly welcomes guests to Athens. They will embark on a fascinating walking tour through the old quarter, sharing the city’s rich history and hidden gems. Strolling through Plaka, with its stunning Neo-Classical architecture and narrow lanes, guests will immerse themselves in authentic Athens. The two-hour walk concludes at the venue for a hands-on cooking class, where guests will prepare traditional Greek dishes under the guidance of local chefs before enjoying the meal they've crafted.
Day 3 - 6
Private Transfer from Hotel to Airport
Domestic Flight to Mykonos
Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel
3 Nights
Mykonos
One of the most famous Greek islands, sun-soaked Mykonos offers you a glamorous getaway in the Mediterranean. It's famous for its lively bars and restaurants, nightlife and culture, with a party atmosphere all summer long. The island boasts a charming Old Town with whitewashed homes, blue-domed churches and trendy boutiques and waterfront cafes. Explore the stylish bars of Little Venice on the promenade, walk Chora's maze-like alleys lined by colorful buildings, and watch boats go in and out of the Old Port. Mykonos stunning beaches are a sun-worshipper's dream with long stretches of soft white sand, crystal clear waters and plenty of watersports. While not sunbathing or swimming, you can hop on a boat and jet off to nearby islands, or travel inwards into the island to discover historic sites and traditional Cycladic villages like Ano Mera. An absolute highlight of the Mykonos experience is watching a sunset from the secluded Armenistis lighthouse.
Included activities
Day 3: Arrive in Mykonos!
Today travelers arrive in the enchanting island of Mykonos! After arriving at their hotel from their private transfer from the airport they should take the time to get acquainted with this lively island and explore the local neighborhoods. Tomorrow they'll enjoy a afternoon hike and swim.
Day 4: A Hike and A Swim
After a leisurely morning, guests will embark on an afternoon hike followed by a refreshing swim. Upon return to their hotel, a refreshing shower and change of clothes will enliven them for a night out on the town. Tomorrow they'll see more of the crystal blue waters on a full day sailing tour.
Private Afternoon Hiking and Swim in Mykonos Tour
Mykonos, famous for its cosmopolitan flair and luxurious hotels, also offers a hidden gem for nature lovers—a scenic hike from the village of Ano Mera. During this one-hour trek, a guide will share the village’s significance in Mykonos' life. Along the way, guests will pass the Fokos Dam, often visited by migratory birds in season, before reaching a secluded beach untouched by crowds. This tranquil spot, without umbrellas or sun beds, offers the perfect setting for a swim. Afterward, guests will be transferred back to their hotel by car.
Day 5: A Full Day of Sun and Sails
Today travelers get to soak in the sun aboard a boat, exploring the coast of Mykonos and its crystal blue waters! This final day on, and around, this island will be a day to remember. Tomorrow travelers depart for Santorini!
Shared Mykonos Sailing Tour
Mykonos is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches, and this sailing excursion offers the perfect way to experience them. Guests will be picked up from their hotel and greeted by the captain at the marina. After a safety briefing, the boat sets sail for handpicked beaches, with plenty of time for swimming at each stop. A delicious onboard lunch, featuring local delicacies, will be prepared by the captain and crew. The day ends with a late afternoon return to the marina, followed by transfer back to the hotel.
Day 6 - 8
Private Transfer from Hotel to Airport
Domestic Flight to Santorini
Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel
2 Nights
Santorini
The most popular of the Greek islands, crescent-shaped Santorini in the Cyclades charms visitors with its stunning landscapes and white-washed houses, framed by the sparkling blue waters of the Aegean Sea. At the heart of the island lies a partly-submerged caldera—the result of a volcanic eruption many centuries ago, flanked by dramatic cliffs with picturesque villages and vineyards perched on the cliffsides. Scenic villages such as Fira and Oia offer iconic blue-domed churches and narrow, winding streets with panoramic views around every corner. Framed against this backdrop are beaches such as Perissa and Kamari, in myriad shades of red, black, and white. Sunsets in Santorini, and especially Oia, are mesmerizing, with the evening sky blanketed in cotton candy pink and orange. The island also boasts one of the best food and nightlife scenes in the Cyclades, though less illustrious than its neighbor Mykonos, thanks to a plethora of restaurants spread across its cliffside villages and waterfronts.
Included activities
Day 6: Arrive in Santorini!
Today guests arrive in the sunny island of Santorini. Once they settle into their hotel, they'll depart for an afternoon sunset and wine tour. Tomorrow they'll enjoy a full day private tour of Santorini's villages.
Small Group Tour: Santorini Sunset Wine Adventure
Guests can explore Santorini's renowned volcanic wines on a small-group tour visiting three traditional wineries. Along the way, they’ll learn about the island’s ancient vineyards, its rich history, and the unique impact of volcanic soil on wine production. At each picturesque winery, guests will enjoy tastings of 12 distinct wines paired with local cheese and snacks. This tour must be reserved in advance, and guests are advised to contact the local sightseeing company upon arrival to confirm their booking.
Day 7: The Villages of Santorini
On this final day in Santorini travelers get to explore the iconic villages of the island with their whitewashed walls and blue roofs. Tomorrow they depart for Athens and a return flight home.
Private Full Day Santorini Villages, Akrotiri, and Village of Oia Tour
Guests will start their day with a scenic drive to Profitis Ilias, the highest point on the island, offering breathtaking views and a perfect photo opportunity. Next, they will explore the traditional village of Megalochori, known for its Cycladic architecture and neoclassical buildings. A visit to the prehistoric site of Akrotiri, often called the “Greek Pompeii,” follows. Afterward, guests will head to Perivolos Beach for a swim and lunch break, before continuing to Oia, a stunning village renowned for its caldera views, charming cafés, and restaurants. The tour concludes with a return to the hotel.
Day 8 - 9
Private Transfer from Hotel to the Airport
Domestic Flight to Athens
Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel
Private Transfer from Hotel to Airport
International Departure
1 Night
Athens
Discover the capital of Greece, where ancient history blends seamlessly with modern life. While the Acropolis towering over the cityscape is the star attraction, there is plenty more to Athens to discover. Archaeological sites such as the gigantic Hadrian's Gate and the ancient Agora are strewn across the city, alongside architectural monuments such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which commemorates Greek troops killed in war. This is also the main center of learning in all of Greece, thanks to the Academy, Athens University, and the National Library, where archaeologists, historians, and scholars converge. Museums and attractions aside, Athens' hip neighborhoods are memorable too with their vibrant street art, artisanal boutiques, and cafes, and a thriving food and nightlife scene. The cobbled streets of Plaka lead straight up to the Acropolis, while Monastiraki Square offers the perfect spot for people-watching all day long. At Syntagma Square, visitors can witness the symbolic Changing of the Guards ceremony and then picnic in the vast botanical gardens next door. Visit Lycabettus Hill for panoramic views of this bustling metropolis, or escape with a day trip to nearby beaches, port towns, and the lush Attica peninsula.
Included activities
Day 8: Final Day in Greece
On this final day in Greece guests can enjoy a final walk through the neighborhoods of this nation's capital city before a final evening shared tour of Athens. Tomorrow, they'll depart for home!
Shared Tour: A Night Out in Athens
The evening begins with a panoramic drive through the city center, offering guests the chance to admire and photograph the illuminated Acropolis from the sacred hill. A pleasant stroll through the charming streets of Plaka leads to a traditional Greek taverna, where guests will enjoy dinner accompanied by a lively floor show featuring live music and traditional Greek folk dances performed in authentic costumes.
Day 9: Depart for Home
Today guests depart Greece for home with a collection of sun-soaked memories!
Inclusions
Includes
- Activities and excursions as specified in the itinerary
- Accommodation: Athens (2 nights) - Mykonos (3 nights) - Santorini (2 nights) - Athens (1 night)
- Meals where noted in the itinerary
- Train rides where noted in the itinerary
- Admission tickets as specified in the itinerary
Not Included
- Tips and personal expenses
- Visa and tourism charges
- Travel insurance
- Arrival and departure flights