9-Nights Athens, Mykonos & Santorini: Greek Island Explorer

Your adventure begins as you touch down in the storied city of Athens. A warm greeting from your English-speaking assistant sets the tone before you're whisked away to your hotel to settle in. In the early evening, follow the golden coastline past the beaches of Glyfada, Vouliagmeni, and Varkiza—where a spontaneous dip in the Aegean might just become your first memory of Greece. Your destination is Cape Sounion, where the ancient Temple of Poseidon rises dramatically above the sea. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, stroll the rocky cape and soak in the view that once inspired Homer himself. Cap the night with a delicious seaside dinner, savoring fresh Greek flavors as waves lap the shore.

Hotel: Titania Hotel (4 Star Rating)

The Titania Athens Hotel is surrounded by important monuments of Grecian history such as the Acropolis, the New Museum of the Acropolis, The Parliament, The Archaeological Museum and the National Library. The Titania Hotel is located near theaters, modern shops and city malls, providing their guests with a variety of sight-seeing and entertainment choices. The remarkable Lobby area is decorated with the famous "Pentelikon" marble and inland mosaics to depict a theme of ancient Greek history. Titania has 2 restaurants: La Brasserie, and gourmet roof garden Olive Garden. Hotel Titania offers underground parking for 230 cars. This service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Meal(s): Dinner

Pick up from the hotel and departure for this tour that gives you the opportunity to observe the striking contrasts that make Athens such a fascinating city. Start the day in Plaka district, Athens's oldest and most picturesque neighbourhood. The maze of cobblestone pedestrian streets is lined with shops, boutiques, souvenir stands and flea market stalls that beckon all that enter. Here you will have lunch at local restaurant. Proceed for a visit to Ancient Agora, which was the center of Athenian democracy, where the city's most important political functions were exercised and where both Pericles and Socrates once walked. The ruins of the ancient Agora, the exceptionally well-preserved temple of Hephaistos and the restored Stoa of Attalos may be visited in the shadow of the Acropolis at a site characterized by particular natural beauty. Next, our expert guide will take you to see the Panathenaic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896 (short stop). Continue and pass by the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Hadrian's Arch, the Parliament and the Monument of the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, the Constitution Square (Syntagma). At the Acropolis you will visit the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheium and finally “the harmony between material and spirit”, the monument that “puts order in the mind”, the Parthenon. Continue and visit a must- see in Athens, the place where finally the statues found their home and admire the wonders of the classical era: The New Acropolis Museum, voted by the Sunday Times as the 3rd best museum of the world. Next, enjoy dinner at the Acropolis Museum Restaurant with stunning views of the Acropolis. After dinner, return to your hotel.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Board the fast ferry to Santorini, and let the deep blue of the Aegean guide you to the island of dreams. Upon arrival, dive into Santorini’s iconic beauty with a walking tour of Oia, famous for its whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches. Then continue to Fira, the lively capital, where cliffside cafes offer breathtaking views. After exploring its winding streets, check in to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening at your own pace.

Hotel: Santorini Palace (4 Star Rating)

The 4-star Santorini Palace is centrally located in Fira, Santorini's capital, within walking distance to the old port, museums, shops, and restaurants. Guests may take full advantage of the resort facilities, the peaceful hotel spa atmosphere, keep up with their fitness in the fully equipped gym, relax by the pool, enjoy a walk on the Caldera's promenade or even experience Fira cosmopolitan nightlife.

All air-conditioned rooms open to a balcony overlooking the well-tended garden or the Aegean Sea. Facilities include a satellite TV and minibar. Each private bathroom is fitted with a bathtub and hairdryer. Guests at Santorini Palace can start their day with a buffet breakfast. The restaurant serves international dishes during dinner times. Refreshing drinks and light meals are prepared at the snack bar by the pool.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Today is a tapestry of history, scenery, and flavour. First stop is Akrotiri Excavation Site. Enjoy a guided tour of the so-called “Prehistoric Pompei” or “Lost Atlantis”, buried and preserved by the volcanic ash of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in human history (17th century BC). Proceed for a walking Tour at Megalochori, one of the most beautiful traditional villages of the island. Typical traditional cycladic houses, neoclassic buildings and small houses dug in the volcanic rock blend together with harmony. We find here also the typical small white churches with blue domes. Continue to the picturesque village of Pyrgos, the largest preserved village on Santorini and the island’s former capital. Strategically built in the heart of the pre-volcanic hinterland and at the foot of Mt Profitis Ilias, Pyrgos affords panoramic views. You will also make a short stop at Profitis Ilias Mountain, the highest peak of Santorini (567 meters) to admire the striking panoramic view of the entire island. Head to Black Beach to have lunch and relax at one of the longest black sandy beaches in the Cyclades and the most popular beach of Santorini. Finish your tour with a visit at a local winery and taste Santorini’s distinctive wines and learn about one of the oldest vineyards in Europe.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Let the vineyards guide you today as you explore Santorini’s centuries-old wine culture. Visit local wineries nestled among scenic hills, and learn how volcanic soil shapes each bottle. From crisp Assyrtiko to rich dessert wines, you’ll sample a variety of vintages while hearing the stories of generations of island winemakers. It’s a day of simple pleasures and elegant sips.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Transfer to port to board the fast ferry to Mykonos (approx. 3 hour ferry). Upon arrival in Mykonos, pick up from the port of Mykonos and begin with a tour of Mykonian culture. Stroll along the seafront, past the local fish and vegetable market. Keep your eyes peeled for the islands cheerful avian mascot, Peter the Pelican. Visit the antique-filled Folklore Museum, situated in a charming 11th-century house on your way to Paraportiani Church. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, the Church is a famous example of Cycladic architecture and is one of the most photographed spots in the Mediterranean. From here, continue onwards to the picturesque area of Alefkandra, known as the Little Venice of Mykonos. The gorgeous old houses are perched precariously on the edge of the sea, and the neighborhood is a popular area for local artists to set up their workshops. By the harbor, the iconic windmills stand guard facing the north, and offer a strikingly beautiful photographic opportunity. The windmills were used in the past to grind wheat, and provide a scenic vista overlooking Little Venice and the sea below. From here, continue to the House of Lena Museum, a great example of 19th century middle-class Mykonian life. End the afternoon with a stop at a local tavern for a sampling of Greek meze, including various traditional Greek dips and olives, feta cheese, and tomatoes.

Hotel: San Antonio Summerland (4 Star Rating)

Nestled on a sprawling 14,000 square meter estate, our hotel is conveniently situated just 1800 meters (1.11 miles) northwest of Mykonos town center by car, or a shorter 1 km (0.6 miles) walk along a traditional Mykonian path. This prime location offers both easy access to the town and a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Today, we visit the village of Ano Mera, well-known for its wine production and a quaint town square filled with Greek taverns. Visit a traditional farm for a wine tasting of 3 types of traditional Greek wine, and sample the local white and red wines. For a unique treat, try the dessert wine; a naturally sweet wine originating in Greece. Pair your wines with a selection of meze , including a dip made with traditional kopanisti cheese and yogurt, a snack of aged gruyere cheese from Naxos served with honey, Mykonian prosciutto louza, bread, and salad.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Today we will enjoy a cooking class followed by lunch. We plan a special itinerary that combines beautiful stories with an emphasis on the “symposium” which means original Greek ambient with great food wine and culture of Mykonos/Cyclades islands. We selected a beautiful house in Mykonos & arranged for you the most experienced local chef. Like a great Greek meal, this tour is a long, happy, satisfying event that you'll wish would never end! Greek recipes as souvenir, wine or soft drink offered during class at your private venue

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Enjoy your final morning in Mykonos before boarding the ferry back to Athens. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Perhaps stroll through the bustling streets of Monastiraki, relax in a café with one last Greek coffee, or shop for keepsakes to take a piece of Greece home with you.

Hotel: Titania Hotel (4 Star Rating)

The Titania Athens Hotel is surrounded by important monuments of Grecian history such as the Acropolis, the New Museum of the Acropolis, The Parliament, The Archaeological Museum and the National Library. The Titania Hotel is located near theaters, modern shops and city malls, providing their guests with a variety of sight-seeing and entertainment choices. The remarkable Lobby area is decorated with the famous "Pentelikon" marble and inland mosaics to depict a theme of ancient Greek history. Titania has 2 restaurants: La Brasserie, and gourmet roof garden Olive Garden. Hotel Titania offers underground parking for 230 cars. This service operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Meal(s): Breakfast

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the land of gods, myths, and sunsets. You’ll be transferred to Athens International Airport for your onward flight, your heart full and your camera packed with memories.

Meal(s): Breakfast