Luxury Highlights of Greece: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini - 7 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Athens, Tour the Acropolis & Acropolis Museum

Welcome to Greece! Your flight lands in the capital city of Athens, a bustling metropolis that combines ancient landmarks and architecture with a modern, upscale vibe. Your driver will meet you at the airport and transport you to your accommodations at the Athens Capital Center Hotel, a 5-star accommodation located in the exclusive Kolonaki district. Here, you'll find tastefully appointed rooms, carefully curated artwork, and a rooftop pool area that offers expansive views of the Acropolis and city lights. 

Once you've had some time to rest and regroup, meet your guide for a private tour of the historic Acropolis and Acropolis Museum. This ancient citadel sits above the city and is considered the cornerstone of Greek history and culture. In addition to being the home of the Parthenon, you'll find the ruins of several historically significant buildings here. Stroll the same paths that legends such as Socrates and Plato once walked and learn more about how notions like democracy were created and evolved to become a crucial part of modern Greece. 

Continue to the Acropolis Museum, which houses all the findings of this archaeological site. See artifacts found at the Acropolis and its surrounding slopes, with items dating back to the Greek Bronze Age, as well as the Roman and Byzantine periods. End the day back at your hotel, where you can relax by the pool or enjoy contemporary Mediterranean dishes at the on-site restaurant. 

Day 2: Driving Tour of the Athenian Riviera: Temple of Poseidon & Fine Dining

Strike out into Greece's spectacular countryside today with a private driving tour along the Athenian Riviera. Head out with your guide in the early afternoon, traveling along the 30-mile (48 km) coastline, which stretches from Athens all the way to Cape Sounio (Sounion).

Here, you'll find everything from glitzy city suburbs to hidden lagoons, not to mention one of ancient Greece's most famous monuments, the Temple of Poseidon. This fifth-century archaeological site overlooks the Saronic Gulf and its islands, dominating the southernmost tip of Attica. Walk the grounds, taking in the immense columns and ancient remains as your guide shares stories and legends about the people who built a temple to honor the god of the sea. 

The day ends with an indulgent gourmet dinner at Ithaki, one of the Riviera's premier restaurants. Enjoy fresh fish and other seafood, traditional Greek appetizers, and delicious desserts, all set against the backdrop of Riviera views and gentle sea breezes. Afterward, your driver will return you to your hotel in Athens.

Day 3: Ferry to Mykonos, Oysters & Bubbles Shellfish Experience

You're off to the island of Mykonos today, otherwise known as the "island of the winds." While the island is renowned for its cosmopolitan vibe and vibrant atmosphere, Mykonos is also home to stone-paved alleys, quintessential blue and white cottages, and a host of archaeological history. Your driver will collect you from your hotel after check out and take you to Athens port for a high-speed ferry ride over to the island. 

Upon arrival, take a private transfer to the 5-star Cavo Tagoo Mykonos. This luxury retreat is built into a natural cliffside, with rooms and villas that include private pools, hot tubs, and terraces that overlook the blue waters of the Aegean Sea. The aesthetic here says "barefoot chic" with distinct architecture that pays homage to the natural beauty of the island. 

Later this afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to taste some of the delectable seafood that comes fresh from the sea. Your private guide will collect you from your hotel, and you'll head out to enjoy a sampling of local oysters and clams, all washed down with delicious bubbly. The head guide is a local fisherman who knows all the secrets of proper oyster and clam harvesting, and he will not only offer up a lovely picnic, but you'll learn about the different textures and flavors of the oysters as you try them. Return to your hotel afterward to relax, or take a sunset stroll around the island.

Day 4: Luxury Catamaran Sunset Cruise, Evening Walking Tour

After a leisurely free morning, see the island from a different view as you head out for a half-day private catamaran adventure. You'll be met by a driver at your hotel and transferred to the port in Ornos Bay, where you'll be welcomed onboard your luxury vessel. Get introduced to your captain and crew, and after a safety briefing, it's time to hoist the sails and head out into the Aegean. 

Cruise to the south end of Delos and make your first stop at Rhenia, a small, undeveloped island where you'll be able to swim and snorkel in its quiet coves. Spend some time here, then sail to another secluded cove and enjoy the water while your crew prepares a sumptuous seven-course meal. Dine on salads, grilled meats and fish, calamari, and local vegetables, all accompanied by wines or soft drinks. End this perfect day with one last swim, then set sail again, stopping by Delos once more to catch a glimpse of the archaeological site there and taking in the incredible red and orange sunset as you return to port. 

This evening, get better acquainted with Mykonos on a private sunset walking tour. Together with your expert local guide, you'll stroll through the labyrinth of Mykonos Old Town district, visiting the small port and picturesque churches around the area. See the famed windmills, once used to grind barley, wheat, and other grains by harnessing the power of the meltemi, or northern wind, and end at the Little Venice neighborhood, where you'll find elegant homes sitting right on the water and lovely views of the sea. Have drinks at one of the seaside cafés, or continue your walk around town at your own pace. 

Day 5: Ferry to Santorini, Sea View Dinner at Lycabettus Restaurant

Your next destination is the island of Santorini. Known for its cliffside blue and white houses (built on the side of a once-active volcano), exquisite sunset views, and endless beaches, the island is a popular destination for visitors from across the globe. Check out of your hotel in the morning and take a private transfer to the port, where you'll catch a local ferry for the quick ride over. 

Your driver will meet you at the port and transport you to your hotel, the Canaves Oia Suites. This 5-star boutique hotel features gorgeous accommodations that blend traditional and modern design. The suites and villas offer private plunge pools, hot tubs, and open views of the sea at every turn, making for an incredibly relaxing stay. 

Rest up at the hotel for a bit or take a stroll through the island's quaint neighborhoods, then meet your private driver and head to what is considered one of the island's top restaurants, Lycabettus. Enjoy a dining experience like no other as you sit out on their cliffside terrace with the sea at your feet and partake of fresh local seafood, steaks, and of course, top-notch wine from Santorini's own vineyards. Finish the day watching the sun drop below the sea as you linger over that last glass of wine and dessert.

Day 6: Santorini Island Tour: Beaches, Wine Tastings & Historic Sites 

Make the most of your last full day in Greece with a guided tour around Santorini. After breakfast, meet your private guides and start with a visit to the ruins of ancient Akrotiri, destroyed during a volcanic eruption in the 16th century BCE and buried in ash. Visit the nearby Lost Atlantis Museum to see artifacts and learn more about the history of the eruption, then head to Red Beach, whose red-hued sand gives it an otherworldly glow. 

Day 7: Depart Santorini 

Sadly, it's time to say farewell to Greece. Your driver will collect you from your hotel this morning and transport you to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!

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