Explore Athens & the Cyclades - 10 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: 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 4: 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 5: Transfer to the Island of Ios

Catch the ferry to Ios. You'll have free time to explore the island today, walking through a labyrinth of alleys lined with whitewashed houses, small churches, traditional bakeries, and flower-filled patios. Check out the 16th-century Agia Theodoti, the island’s oldest Orthodox church, built above the ruins of the Temple of Apollo. The Theatre of Odysseas Elytis, with more than a thousand seats, was built in the Ancient Greek style and named after the Nobel Prize-winning Greek poet Elytis. Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant and get some rest at your hotel.

Day 6: Relax on the Beaches of Ios

Explore the stunning coastline of Ios today, boating to some of the most beautiful beaches the island has to offer. You'll ride a speedboat around secluded sections of the island, stopping at beaches that are only accessible by water, including Kolistani, Klima, Pikri Nero, Pepa, and Manganari. Go swimming in crystal clear waters and take a break for lunch on the boat. You'll also have the opportunity to snorkel before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: 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.

Today you'll go on a boat tour around Milos, making stops along the way to swim and explore. You'll also visit Sykia Cave. Later in the day, you'll have plenty of activity options to choose from. Hike to the cliff-diving spots in Sarakiniko, visit the prehistoric village of Fylakopi, or walk around the idyllic fishing villages of Mantrakia, Klima, and Filopotamos.

Day 9: Enjoy One Last Night in Athens

After breakfast, you'll enjoy the scenic ferry ride back to Athens. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy. One option is to go on a boating excursion to the majestic Temple of Poseidon at Sounio. This sacred site dating back to the Bronze Age will take your breath away with its sweeping ocean views, impressive ancient columns, and intricate history. The boat ride back doubles as a sunset cruise before spending your last night in Athens. 

Day 10: Depart Athens - End of Trip

The trip comes to an end today. You'll head to the airport to catch a flight out. Safe travels!