History, Islands & Sunsets

Your Greek adventure begins with your arrival at Athens International Airport where you’ll be welcomed by your private driver who will transfer you to your hotel in the city center. After getting settled in you can rest and relax, but we recommend taking a walk through the Monastiraki neighborhood which offers a great taste of the local life with ancient sites, lively markets, and shops that sell items that have been Greek handcrafted, handmade jewelry, and antiques. Afterward, there are many enticing places, including rooftop bars, to unwind while sipping Greek wine with a picturesque view, perhaps watching the sun go down over the city.

• Preferred hotel Elia Ermou

Join your local guide for a private tour of Acropolis hill this morning. Topped with the iconic Parthenon and other monuments like the Temple of Athena Nike, the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, and the Theater of Dionysus that have been overlooking the capital city since the 5^th century BC, you’ll hear the fascinating stories behind them while tracing the footsteps of the likes of Plato, Socrates, and other ancient philosophers. Afterward, head over to historic Plaka, a colorful neighborhood with cobbled streets that sits beneath the shadow of the famous hill, home to ancient landmarks, including centuries-old temples, along with family-run shops and tavernas.

• Preferred hotel Elia Ermou

Get ready to head to the islands. After breakfast, your private driver will pick you up at your hotel for transfer to the high-speed ferry that will bring you to Naxos. The 6^th century BC remains of the unfinished marble temple of Apollo, looking like a massive doorframe, will greet you at the entrance to Naxos Town. Upon arrival, you’ll take a private transfer to your hotel, with the rest of the day at your leisure. You might stroll through the narrow winding streets lined with whitewashed buildings in Chora or walk along the waterfront with many little shops and eateries for dining with a view.

• Preferred hotel 18 Grapes Hotel

As a paradise for foodies with a long tradition of cheesemaking and producing many other signature island products, we’ve arranged for a special tour that will reveal the reasons why Naxos has become so highly acclaimed for its gastronomic scene. Take a stroll with a local guide to learn more about the dairy and meat products here and try some delicious dishes made with olive oil pressed from the island’s olive trees and Naxian potatoes. You’ll enjoy some sightseeing too, including iconic landmarks like the Venetian castle, the most famous medieval monument in Chora, built in the early 13^th century.

• Preferred hotel 18 Grapes Hotel

After so many busy days, today you’ll get the opportunity to rest and refresh. You might relax on one of the white, powdery sand beaches Naxos is famous for, take advantage of your hotel’s facilities, or if you’re up for another activity, an optional catamaran cruise. A full-day sailing trip, it cruises along the island’s coast to Rina Cave. Filled with clear emerald waters, a stop will be made so that you can swim here before continuing to the lesser Cyclades Islands. Multiple swim stops will be enjoyed along the way and complimentary use of snorkeling equipment and stand-up paddle boards are available too.

• Preferred hotel 18 Grapes Hotel

Continuing to your final destination this morning you’ll catch another high-speed ferry to Santorini. Get your camera ready as soon you’ll be met with an awe-inspiring view of the caldera that soars 1,200 feet above. After disembarking, your driver will welcome you and provide a private transfer to your luxury hotel. Take time to settle in, enjoy the stunning Aegean view and perhaps relax around the pool. When it’s time to dine, there are many enticing spots for enjoying a meal with a sea view. If you’re in the mood to explore, check out the Museum of Prehistoric Thera which chronicles the island’s history.

• Preferred hotel Petit Palace Suites

A relaxed morning can be enjoyed all to yourself, providing an ideal opportunity for the adventurous to take a trek on the path between Fira and Oia following the rim of the caldera. Later this afternoon, a private transfer brings you to Amoudi Bay where your luxury catamaran awaits below Oia’s high volcanic cliffs. You’ll be joining a maximum of six other couples for an intimate sunset sailing cruise along Santorini’s shoreline. You’ll pass a historic lighthouse, the famous Pompeii-like Akrotiri settlement, soak in volcanic hot springs, enjoy several swim stops, and a BBQ lunch. Conclude with a glorious sunset near Oia.

• Preferred hotel Petit Palace Suites

On your final full day, you’ll enjoy Santorini on your own, although if you’d prefer another organized activity, an optional half-day wine and culinary class is available, providing an immersion into the island’s culinary scene and its volcanic wines, including a hands-on lesson. It begins by visiting a winery for a tasting followed by instruction on how to prepare a meal using ingredients grown on the island that you’ll easily be able to duplicate back home. Otherwise, we suggest a visit to the Akrotiri archaeological site, spending the day at the beach, or exploring the shops and art galleries in town.

• Preferred hotel Petit Palace Suites

After nine unforgettable days through Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, it’s time to begin your journey back home. You’ll have time for one last breakfast, ideally while savoring that incredible view, before taking a private transfer to Santorini’s airport. If you’d like to extend your time here, visit another Greek island, or explore elsewhere, this itinerary can be customized just for you with the help of our travel experts.