Adventure & Relaxation in Athens, Mykonos, Paros & Santorini - 10 Days

Highlights

• Go island-hopping in a traditional Greek sailboat
• Visit the Acropolis in Athens and the city's top museums
• Discover the charming Little Venice neighborhood of Mykonos
• Explore the island of Paros in your rental car
• Sample local wines at a winery on Santorini

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Athens, Explore

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. First, head to the Acropolis and the Parthenon. 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 the 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 stay overnight in the city. 

Day 2: 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 deck.

Day 3: Ferry to Mykonos, Explore

Catch a ferry to Mykonos this morning and enjoy a free afternoon on the beautiful island! If you want to get your toes in the sand immediately, head to Agios Sostis beach to find your own quiet paradise. For a more active experience, Ftelia Beach is known for excellent windsurfing. Later, stroll through Little Venice, an 18th-century neighborhood where colorful former captains' mansions and seaside restaurants are lined up along the seafront. 

Day 4: Half-Day Cruise to Delos & Rhenia

Today, you'll go on a half-day cruise on a traditional sailboat. The first stop is Delos. You'll walk through the old town and visit the island's main archaeological site. As mythology has it, this is the birthplace of Apollo (god of light and the sun) and Artemis (goddess of the hunt). The second stop is Rhenia Island and a break on the beach at Skinos Bay, known for its clear azure waters. You'll head back to Mykonos later in the day. 

Day 5: Sailing Excursion to Paros

Sail on the Aegean Sea today, enjoying its crystal clear waters as you make your way to magnificent beaches on the islands of Paros and Antiparos. You can 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.

You'll spend the night on the island of Paros tonight and the following night. 

Day 6: Discover the Picturesque Villages of Paros

Today you'll discover the picturesque villages of Paros with your rental car. Start in Parikia, the capital of the island. Visit the island's Archaeological Museum, ancient marble quarries, and the small village of Kostos, known for its pottery tradition. Head to the mountain village of Lefkes for wonderful views over the landscape and sea. You'll finish the tour in Naoussa, taking some time to wander through the village's picturesque alleys and colorful port. 

Day 7: Ferry to Santorini, Explore

This morning, you'll board a boat for the next island, 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. Sample the island's signature cherry tomatoes and white eggplant for dinner, typically served as side dishes with fresh seafood. 

Day 8: Tour 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: Santorini Winery Tour & Tasting

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.

Day 10: Depart Santorini

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

More Great Greece Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Greece? Check out these other Greece itineraries, explore different ways to spend 10 days in Greece, or discover the best time to visit Greece.