History, Islands & Sunsets

Your enchanting Greek trip begins with your arrival into Athens International Airport. You’ll be welcomed by your private driver for transfer to your hotel in the city. The rest of the day is at your leisure, but after getting settled in we recommend doing a little exploring, perhaps a stroll through Monastiraki neighborhood, one of the oldest and liveliest neighborhoods, perfect for a taste of the local life. You’ll find all sorts of shops selling unique handcrafted items and antiques along with bustling markets and ancient sites.

• Preferred hotel Elia Ermou

Enjoy a private tour of the Acropolis and Parthenon temple that overlooks the city. Follow your knowledgeable guide who will bring you not only to marvel at the iconic landmarks that have stood the test of time, dating back to the 5^th-century BC, but learn more about them. You’ll visit the Acropolis Museum too, which holds artifacts uncovered on the “hill.” It’s the perfect way to start your discovery of this country, getting a good feel for the Greek spirit. Afterward, stroll through the colorful Plaka district with its cobbled streets, ancient temples and family-run tavernas in the shadow of the Acropolis.

• Preferred hotel Elia Ermou

After breakfast, your private driver will bring you to the harbor to catch a high-speed ferry to Naxos. As you sail in, you’ll notice the island’s symbol which sits right at the entrance, the massive marble gate that’s the single part that remains of an unfinished temple of Apollo, dating to 530 BC. Once on land, take private transfer to your hotel and then perhaps enjoy a stroll along the waterfront which is filled with shops and eateries, many of which serve fresh seafood, with dessert almost always included.

• Preferred hotel 18 Grapes Hotel

The mountainous village of Apeiranthos offers timeless beauty with meandering marble paths, magnificent architecture, stone-built homes, and a population known for their independence and unique dialect. Locally grown ingredients are used to created eclectic recipes that you’ll sample, including smoked ham, homemade bread with a crunchy crust, pork in a tomato-garlic sauce, goat cheese with honey, and a decadent dessert. You’ll definitely want to bring your appetite for this one. A cheese plate will be served paired with raki, and your dessert can be enjoyed with the local liqueur, kitron.

• Preferred hotel 18 Grapes Hotel

After a busy few days discovering both the history and culinary treasures of Greece, we’ve included a day of leisure for you to recharge.

Optional – Catamaran Cruise to Rina Cave & Small Cyclades

Speak to your travel specialist about booking a full-day catamaran sailing tour of the Naxos coastline and lesser Cyclades islands. A delicious lunch is included on-board, as are free-flow beers, wines, and soft drinks. Enjoy multiple swim stops, a visit to a beautiful hidden cave, and complimentary use of snorkeling and stand-up paddle equipment. 

• Preferred hotel 18 Grapes Hotel

After getting your fill of tasty food and wine on Naxos, you’ll hop on another high-speed ferry to Santorini where you’ll be greeted with an awe-inspiring view of the caldera. Your private driver will officially welcome you to this bucket-list island and bring you to your hotel. Enjoy unwinding while surrounded by timeless beauty or take a stroll through town to get a taste of what awaits while your here. This island is renowned for its volcanic wines and also offers plenty of delicious eats, with many places to enjoy both complemented by a spectacular view of the glittering sapphire waters.

• Preferred hotel Petit Palace Suites

Enjoy a relaxed morning and then embark on an unforgettable sunset sailing trip on a luxurious catamaran. Departing from Amoudi Bay, a breathtaking port tucked into the high volcanic cliffs just below Oia, you’ll be on board with up to just six other couples for an intimate experience cruising along Santorini’s shores, passing the historic lighthouse and the Pompeii-like settlement of Akrotiri. Stops will be made at the Red and White beaches for a swim or snorkel and a BBQ lunch. From there you’ll soak in the natural volcanic hot springs and sail into the caldera to watch a magical sunset near Oia.

• Preferred hotel Petit Palace Suites

On your final full day in Santorini, we’ve included a day of leisure for you to get some last minute shopping done or visit nearby Fira.

Optional Half Day Wine & Culinary Class

Look forward to a culinary class focused on Santorini’s volcanic wines and delicious cuisine. You’ll learn all about the local products and the signature island dishes before taking a hands-on lesson. Start by visiting a winery for a tasting and then a local expert will guide you in preparing a meal made with island-grown ingredients.

• Preferred hotel Petit Palace Suites

Your time in Santorini comes to an end this morning, our private driver will transfer you to Santorini Airport for your flight to Athens and your onward journey.

Customize This Trip

All of the itineraries we create are fully customized and can be tailored to your exact preferences. If you would like to extend your stay in any of the destinations or add/remove any experiences, simply mention this to our travel specialists.