Island Hopping the Cyclades 10 Day Private Tour

Athens

This exciting island-hopping tour begins in a big way with your arrival into the Greek capital, one of the world’s largest cities with a recorded history that spans over 3,400 years. Often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization, you’ll be surrounded by ancient iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and centuries-old temples.

Check into your hotel, rest and relax, or perhaps get re-energized by wandering through the Plaka, Athens’ oldest neighborhood with its narrow streets, ancient ruins, Byzantine temples and neoclassical buildings. Take advantage of a warm evening to dine alfresco at one of the many restaurants while watching the world go by.

Athens

Today you’ll have the opportunity to have some fun while on a unique private tour that allows you to become a local Athenian, getting an in-depth look at the city’s top treasures, including hidden gems while learning insider tips from your local guide/game moderator.

You’ll be given directions, hunting for clues and solving riddles to play a game that provides an in-depth look at day-to-day life, all while interacting with locals and tasting some of their favorite snacks and beverages like delicious Greek coffee, ice cream and koulouri. Of course, the excursion includes plenty of jaw-dropping panoramic views as you get to know the most authentic side of Athens. You’ll even get to take home a range of signature Greek products too.

Paros

Fly to the island of Paros and the rest of the day at leisure in this “quintessential Greek island,” often referred to, its diverse and impressive landscapes include everything from serene valleys and rolling hills dotted with ancient monasteries and lovely little churches to endless powdery sand beaches framed by crystal-clear aquamarine waters.

There are medieval ruins and monuments, postcard-perfect whitewashed towns and no shortage of enticing bars and cafes.

Paros

Look forward to a half-day of cruising aboard an elegant catamaran, sailing south to view the dazzling turquoise lagoons that lie on islands between Paros and Antiparos. Journey on to magnificent sea caves carved out of volcanic rocks that are ideal for a refreshing dip, and then explore the history and beaches on the archaeological island of Despotiko.

If you’d like lunch can be arranged at one of the two taverns there. More stunning beaches that can only be accessed by water will be visited on Antiparos’ wild west side, and on its north side you’ll visit the rock of Saint Spyridon which hosts a lovely church. Enjoy soaking in the warm geothermal waters of Fira Island before returning.

Santorini

Gaze out at the brilliant blue waters of the Aegean as you take the ferry to Santorini. After checking into your hotel, you’ll have the afternoon to spend at your leisure. You may want to wander through the idyllic village of Oia – its image has been splashed across countless postcards and travel brochures as one of the most photographed spots on the planet.

Thira offers some outstanding museums, including the Museum of Prehistoric Thira and the Archaeological Museum which holds many impressive archaeological finds from Santorini.

Set atop dramatic cliffs boasting stunning views over the caldera, stroll the narrow streets and alleyways, popping into boutiques and art galleries or just relaxing with a drink at one of the many tavernas. Stick around from sunset, one of the most admired in the world.

Santorini

Today you will experience the delights of the culture and history of the island with a visit to the Akrotiri Archaeological site. Walk back through time with an expert tour guide, passing lovely old churches, windmills and traditional cave homes untouched by the centuries while taking in magnificent views of unspoiled scenery and visiting some of the locals’ favorite spots.

Visit the monastery of Panagia where from its vantage point at cliff’s edge you’ll be able to gaze out across the bay to Santorini. We will also visit the famous wineries of the island

Crete

Set sail for Crete, one of the largest islands in Greece with a diverse landscape that includes everything from golden stretches of sand, rugged mountains and lush green grass to scenic villages and fascinating Minoan ruins. Experience one of Crete’s highlights, the ancient scenery and myths that surround the nearby Palace of Knossos.

Your ferry will dock in Heraklion, also known as Iraklion, where you’ll check into your hotel to rest or perhaps enjoy relaxing in one of the enticing cafes sipping a refreshing beverage and people watching before searching the streets for loukoumades, delectable deep-fried dough balls in honey. If you want to pick up a gift or souvenir, the old market street, Odos 1866, offers plenty, along with the heavenly aromas of spice and herb shops.

Crete

Discover the art of making mouthwatering Cretan cuisine with this tour that begins by collecting wild herbs before visiting a traditional home in a small village to join a cooking workshop. You’ll put on an apron help prepare pesto, salads and appetizers using fresh herbs and veggies from the garden before sitting down to a traditional Cretan lunch.

Alternatively, we have a day of sailing, one of the best ways to discover the many treasures that the island of Crete holds. There will be opportunities for swimming and snorkeling as well as watching for the myriad of marine life while learning more about it and hearing all sorts of tales from the expert skipper and crew.

Athens

Return to Athens by plane, checking into your hotel back in the spectacular city of Athens.

Once settled into your hotel, you’ll join the special tour – an excursion to explore the Acropolis designed to provide an entertaining, inspirational and educational experience.  Witness some of the city’s most important archaeological sites with a friendly guide, for a grasp of ancient history that just can’t be found by reading a textbook. Gaze up at the incredible Parthenon that’s stood atop Acropolis Hill for nearly 2,500 years along with other remarkable monuments while learning about the myths and history behind them.

Departure

After checking out of your hotel, you’ll be picked up for transfer to Athens International Airport for your return flight home, or further travels.