Highlights
- Explore the ancient wonders of the Acropolis
- Discover caves and a dormant volcano on Milos
- Sample local wines at an island winery
- Sunbathe and swim at the famous Red Beach
- Sail around Santorini on a catamaran cruise
Brief Itinerary
Day | Highlights | Overnight |
---|---|---|
Day 1 | Arrive in Athens & Sightsee | Athens |
Day 2 | Tour the Acropolis | Athens |
Day 3 | Boat to Agistri, Moni & Aegina | Athens |
Day 4 | Catch the Ferry to Milos | Milos |
Day 5 | Boat Around Milos | Milos |
Day 6 | Relax on the Beach in Milos | Milos |
Day 7 | Take the Ferry to Santorini | Santorini |
Day 8 | Get to Know the Traditional Villages of Santorini | Santorini |
Day 9 | Taste Wines in a Local Winery | Santorini |
Day 10 | Enjoy a Catamaran Cruise | Santorini |
Day 11 | Depart Santorini - End of Trip |
Detailed Itinerary
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 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: Tour the Acropolis
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: 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 4: Catch the Ferry to Milos
Enjoy the ferry ride to Milos. The island has more than 70 beautiful beaches and is also home to a dormant volcano. Milos is associated with one of the most famous works of art in the world — the Venus de Milo statue now on display at the Louvre Museum in Paris — because the sculpture was discovered here. There's still plenty of history to explore here, including the historic catacombs and amphitheater.Day 5: Boat Around Milos
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Day 6: Relax on the Beach in Milos
Relax on Milos today. There's no shortage of beaches to choose from! The island’s villages are lovely, too, including the stately Plaka (the island’s capital), the harbor village of Adamantas, beautiful Hivadolimni, and Emporios with its small lagoon. Whitewashed Chora is home to quaint churches, such as Panagia Korfiatissa. Adamantas, built like an amphitheatre overlooking the Aegean Sea, is the second largest natural harbor natural in Greece and is famous for its nightlife. You might also opt to visit Apollonia on the northwestern tip of the island.
Day 7: Take the Ferry 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 8: Get to Know the Traditional Villages of Santorini
In the morning, visit Prophet Elias Monastery, the highest spot on the island. Walk around Megalochori, one of the most picturesque villages on the island. You'll also go on a walking tour of the village of Emporio. 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. At sunset, catch the views of the Blue Dome Church at Firostefani and the spectacular landscape below.
Day 9: Taste Wines in a Local Winery
Explore the southeastern part of the island today, starting with a visit to the village of Kamari. Stop into Panagia Episkopi, the oldest Byzantine church on the island. Relax on the beach after lunch, then head to Canava Ouzo for a guided tasting of locally produced spirits, including ouzo. Another option is to visit Avantis Winery to taste wines and explore the viticulture tradition of Santorini. You'll also be able to tour the tomato factory in Vlychada. The tomato is one of the most famous and traditional products of Santorini, and you'll learn about its cultivation and the culinary traditions associated with it during a visit to a nearby farm.
Day 10: Enjoy a Catamaran Cruise
A catamaran cruise is a wonderful way to spend part of your last day on the island. Start the tour on picturesque Ammoudi Bay, then sail to nearby hot springs for a refreshing dip. Continue cruising past a historic lighthouse before stopping at the Red Beach for swimming and snorkeling. Then you'll sail to the White Beach, enjoying a traditional Greek barbecue on the boat.Day 11: Depart Santorini - End of Trip
The trip comes to an end today. You'll head to the airport to catch a flight out. Safe travels!More Greece Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Greece? Check out these other Greece itineraries, with island-hopping adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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