Adventure & Relaxation in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 12 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Athens & Sightsee

Welcome to Greece! Your private driver will be waiting at the airport to transfer you to your hotel in Athens. In the afternoon, get out for some sightseeing. Those interested in history and mythology might choose to visit the Acropolis Museum, the National Archaeological Museum, the Museum of the Ancient Agora, or the Archaeological Museum of Kerameikos. View fine art at Benaki Museum, the Museum of Modern Art, or the National Gallery. You could also go off the beaten path at the Museum of Cycladic Art, where you can buy truly unique souvenirs, or the Museum of Ancient Greek Technology. You'll overnight in the city. 

Day 2: Visit the Acropolis & Go on a Food Tour

Today you'll visit the Acropolis, taking in views of the world-famous Parthenon. This temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena, has enchanted visitors since its construction was completed in 438 BCE. Afterward, the tour continues at the Athens Central Food Market (Varvakios Agora), where you'll sample regional delicacies made by Greek cheese-makers, pastry chefs, and food vendors of all kinds. The evening is free to relax or explore the city.

Day 3: Kayak on the Sea at Sunset

This morning you'll drive along the coast, enjoying marvelous sea views on the way to Cape Sounio. This is the point of departure for an amazing sea kayaking experience. You'll get outfitted with the necessary equipment before paddling along the coast through crystal clear waters, marveling at towering cliffs and hidden caves. Stop on the island of Archi or on one of the beaches of Legrena for a swim. Then return to Cape Sounio and the Temple of Poseidon, which you'll tour before ending the day with a meal in a local restaurant. 

Day 4: Boat to Agistri, Moni & Aegina

Set sail for the Saronic Islands — Agistri, Moni, and Aegina — aboard a spacious Greek sailboat. Find your favorite spot on deck to soak up the Mediterranean sun while island-hopping! From ancient temples and wild peacocks to pristine beaches and an optional bike ride, there’s something for everyone at each stop along the way. Swim and snorkel right off the boat, then indulge in a delicious Greek lunch served on the boat.

Day 5: Explore Naxos at Your Own Pace

Explore the beautiful island of Naxos today. Hike up to the summit of Mount Zas, the mythological childhood home of Zeus, the ruler of the gods, and the highest point in the Cyclades. Visit the Temple of Demeter, where multiple deities of fertility were worshipped. The temple was constructed in 530 BCE, during the tyranny of Lygdamis, and represents a precursor of classical Athenian architecture. Then stroll to the Portara, the entrance to the Temple of Apollo. Construction on the temple began in the sixth century BCE but was never finished, but the still-standing entranceway has become one of the hallmarks of the island. You can find it on the islet of Palatia, just over a causeway from the heart of Naxos Town.

Day 6: Enjoy a Food Tour of Naxos

Eat your way around the island on today's food tour. Visit the traditional creamery shop of Koufopoulos, then a local candy shop that produces homemade candies using local flavors like sage, citron, lemon, orange, mastic, ouzo, and lime chili. Your afternoon walk will end up with a visit to a traditional spirits shop to taste a local liqueur made from citron leaves. You'll have a light dinner on a restaurant terrace in the old town, enjoying magnificent panoramic views over the castle and the port at sunset. 

Day 7: Sail to Paros & Antiparos

Spend a full day sailing around the Aegean Sea, enjoying its crystal clear waters and magnificent beaches on the islands of Paros and Antiparos. You'll be able to go swimming or snorkeling off the boat at the Blue Lagoon while the crew prepares a Greek-style barbecue for you. Then the boat continues to Antiparos, where you'll have the opportunity to explore the island on foot. The Hora (Main Town) of Antiparos is built around a 15th-century Venetian castle. The stone-paved streets, whitewashed alleys, and houses trimmed with vibrant bougainvilleas are incredibly picturesque, as is the central square, shaded by eucalyptus trees. 

Day 8: Continue to Santorini

Catch a ferry to Santorini. On arrival, you'll take in the island's central caldera — the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history — rising above you. The island's volcanic history has led to the formation of some of the most unique beaches in the Greek islands, along with the dramatic cliff views on the island's caldera side. Spend your day relaxing at the beach or strolling on one of Santorini’s scenic walking routes. For dinner, sample the island's signature cherry tomatoes and white eggplant, typically served as side dishes with fresh seafood. 

Day 9: Relax on the Red Beach

In the morning, visit Prophet Elias Monastery, the highest spot on the island. Take a break for lunch before heading to Red Beach, one of the most scenic and interesting beaches on Santorini. In the afternoon, you'll have the chance to sample wines at a local winery nearby. Finish the day with a sailing cruise at sunset with dinner served onboard the boat.

Day 10: Go on a Sea Kayak Excursion

Start today's journey with a ride from your hotel to Mesa Pigadia, a serene beach with black sand. From here, you'll hop on a kayak and paddle along the coast, passing pristine beaches, sea caves carved into the mountains, and rock formations near Black Mountain. You'll also see one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece, the Akrotiri Lighthouse. Continue your sea adventure past white rock cliffs and the beautiful red rock formations of Red Beach. Take a break on Kampia Beach, one of the area's most secluded beaches. You'll have the option to go snorkeling to discover the marine life in the crystalline waters of the Aegean Sea, including sea urchins, starfish, and sea turtles. End your tour with a delicious Greek meal in a local eatery before you head back to your hotel.

Day 11: Finish the Trip with a Sunset Cruise

You'll have some free time to relax during the day. In the afternoon, you'll depart on a catamaran cruise that offers scenic views of beaches and volcanoes. The boat will dock to give you a chance to explore a series of hot springs — you'll also have the chance to snorkel or swim. The last stop of the tour is on Thirassia Island, where you'll have dinner. Get back on the boat and sail toward the port of Ammoudi, admiring the spectacular colors of the famous Santorini sunset. It's the perfect ending to the itinerary!

Day 12: Depart Santorini - End of Trip

Today the trip comes to a close. Head to the airport to catch a flight out. Safe travels!