Curated trips
Greek Island Bliss from Athens to the Cyclades
Greek Island Bliss from Athens to the Cyclades
16 days  ·  7 places  ·  1 country

From amazing Athens, all the way to the incredible islands, explore the magic of Greece on this 16-day self-guided tour.

Welcome to the land of striking white wash buildings, fresh seafood and Ouzo – you’re in Greece! Starting off the trip on the mainland, there’s so much to explore in the city of Athens.

One of the oldest cities in the world, Athens is all about showcasing its rich history and culture through architecture, food and art. Once you arrive, check into your luxury accommodation at Hotel Grande Bretagne and take a moment to drink in the glorious ancient beauty of your surroundings.

Begin your time in this vibrant city with a traditional meal at Klimataria and sink into an evening of Greek food, music and dance.

Restaurant/Bar
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Tavern Klimataria
Tavern Klimataria
Day 1
Pl. Theatrou 2, Athina 105 52, Greece

Wake up bright and early for a glorious half-day sightseeing tour around the ancient ruins and churches home to Athens. Of course, explore the Acropolis, the ancient citadel that is the city’s pride and joy, the Parthenon, where you can view the city from a gorgeous bird’s eye view and other ancient ruins, temples and theatres scattered throughout the city.

Stop for lunch to re-fuel at a traditional Greek deli, Karamanlidika Tou Fani, where you can dine casually on local delicacies, fresh salads and delectable meats.

Adventure through magnificent Byzantine churches and Ottoman mansions as you get to know a little more about the history of Greece, in particular the various conquering’s of Athens over the years. Learn about the city’s political and commercial heart through a visit to the Ancient Agora, and weave your way through the narrow streets of one of the city’s oldest districts: Plaka, exploring the brightly colours shops, cafes and tavernas as you go.

Finish the day with a delicious casual, authentic Greek experience at the hidden neighbourhood Greek taverna of Kati Allo, or if you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, dine with views overlooking the striking Acropolis with a booking at Strofi.

Restaurant/Bar
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Pizza Kati Allo
Pizza Kati Allo
Day 2
Profiti Ilia 22, Galatsi 111 47, Greece
Attraction
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Ancient Agora of Athens
Ancient Agora of Athens
Day 2
Adrianoy 24, Athina 105 55, Greece
Attraction
Central Athens Regional Unit, Greece
·
Acropolis
Acropolis
Day 2
Acropolis, Athens 105 58, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Karamanlidika
Karamanlidika
Day 2
Evripidou 52, Athina 105 52, Greece
Attraction
Central Athens Regional Unit, Greece
·
Plaka
Plaka
Day 2
Plaka, Athens, Greece
Attraction
Central Athens Regional Unit, Greece
·
Parthenon
Parthenon
Day 2
Athens 105 58, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Strofi Athenian Restaurant
Strofi Athenian Restaurant
Day 2
Rovertou Galli 25, Athina 117 42, Greece

With our ancient explorations behind us, after breakfast, set out for the day to explore the best of modern Athens. From magnificent museums and palaces, to a vibrant nightlife, delectable cuisine, beaches and ocean views – there’s so much on offer.

Start the day wandering around the city’s museums which showcase everything from Cycladic and Islamic art to archaeology, Jewish history, folk art and numismatics. Afterwards, pay a visit to Syntagma Square, the Old Royal Palace houses, the Greek parliament and even have the chance to view the changing of the guard in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Break for a late lunch at Hytra to taste some of Greece’s most distinctive flavours before setting off for a hands on cooking class. Here you’ll learn about traditional Greek flavours, ingredients and methods and chef up your own Greek feast which you will dine on at dinner time.

If you’re hungry for more after dinner, test the city’s finest Lukumades which are basically Greece’s doughnut with a difference.

Attraction
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Old Royal Palace
Old Royal Palace
Day 3
Old Royal Palace, Athina 105 57, Greece
Attraction
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Syntagma Square
Syntagma Square
Day 3
Plateia Syntagmatos, Athina, Greece
Attraction
Ilia, Greece
·
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Day 3
Athanasiou Diakou 16, Pirgos 271 00, Greece
Attraction
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
National Archaeological Museum
National Archaeological Museum
Day 3
28is Oktovriou 44, Athina 106 82, Greece
Attraction
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Hellenic Parliament
Hellenic Parliament
Day 3
Μέγαρο, Βουλής, Leof. Vasilissis Sofias 2, Athina 100 21, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Hytra Restaurant & Bar
Hytra Restaurant & Bar
Day 3
Leof. Andrea Siggrou 107-109, Athina 117 45, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Ditikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
LUKUMΑΔΕΣ
LUKUMΑΔΕΣ
Day 3
Leof. Kifisou 96-98, Egaleo 122 41, Greece

After breakfast, check out of your Athens accommodation and head to the pier to meet your ferry. Set sail to the beautiful island of Mykonos, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Greek Islands – for good reason.

Well known for its white sand beaches, luxury resorts, summer parties and night scene, spend time here indulging in magnificent food, gorgeous sunsets and some of the best beachside parties.

Once you check in to your luxury villa at the Myconian O Hotel spend the afternoon and evening lazing on the beach, sipping your favourite cocktails and sampling the islands finest gyros.

Ferry • SeaJets
Day 4
Athens
8:45am
Day 4
Mykonos
11:35am

You can also Fly with Aegean airlines.

Wake up when you like, indulge in a delicious breakfast and sink into the relaxed island lifestyle here on Mykonos.

Today, board a Mykonos Lazy Cruise and enjoy sailing the crystal blue waters surrounding the picturesque island. Sail around Mykonos to Dragonisi island, then for lunch at Frangia Beach and then spend the afternoon at Paradise Beach.

Later on, refresh at the resort and get ready to return and party at the much-loved Tropicana Beach bar at Paradise Beach. Good vibes, great food, refreshing drinks and pumping tunes are all promised.

Attraction
Μύκονος, Greece
·
Paradise Beach
Paradise Beach
Day 5
Καλαμοπόδι, Μύκονος 846 00, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Mikonos, Greece
·
Tropicana Beach Bar - Restaurant
Tropicana Beach Bar - Restaurant
Day 5
Paradise beach Post Box 506, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
Attraction
Mykonos, Greece
·
Nisída Tragonísi
Nisída Tragonísi
Day 5
Nisída Tragonísi, Mikonos, Greece
Attraction
Mykonos, Greece
·
Frangias Beach
Frangias Beach
Day 5
Frangias Beach, Mikonos 846 00, Greece

Enjoy a leisurely sleep in, spend the day hitting up the world class beaches, relaxing on a sun bed with a good book in hand and relish in personalised bar and food service right on the ocean shore. Work on your bronze at Scorpios on Paraga Beach, or for chiller vibes pop over to Pasaji on Ornos Beach for a sure-fire fun and relaxing day.

If you have a chance, also check out some of the islands other attractions including Armenistis Lighthouses, Windmills and Little Venice in between beach cocktails.

Later that day, check out the islands’ best nightlife venues including Scandinavian Bar and Paradise Club for a guaranteed fun night.

Attraction
Mikonos, Greece
·
Windmills of Mykonos
Windmills of Mykonos
Day 6
Mpaoumi, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
Attraction
Mikonos, Greece
·
Paradise Beach Club Mykonos
Paradise Beach Club Mykonos
Day 6
Paradise Beach, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Mikonos, Greece
·
Skandinavian Bar Mykonos
Skandinavian Bar Mykonos
Day 6
Georgouli, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Mikonos, Greece
·
Scorpios
Scorpios
Day 6
Paraga, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
Attraction
Μύκονος, Greece
·
Little Venice
Little Venice
Day 6
Little Venice, Μύκονος, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Mikonos, Greece
·
Pasaji Mykonos
Pasaji Mykonos
Day 6
Ornos Beach, Mikonos 846 00, Greece
Attraction
Mikonos, Greece
·
Lighthouse Villa Mykonos
Lighthouse Villa Mykonos
Day 6
Fanari Mykonos, Mikonos 846 00, Greece

Enjoy the last of your Mykonos stay with a leisurely breakfast because we’re off again! This time to world-famous holiday hot spot: Santorini.

Jump on the ferry once again from the port in Mykonos and sail on the clear Greek waters to the striking volcanic setting of Santorini. Dotted with traditional whitewashed houses teetering on cliffsides, this magical island boasts the most incredible sunsets and crumbling cliff views year-round.

With a visit to this spectacular island, expect fine food and indulgent villas, local wines, multi-hued beaches and views that stretch beyond the iconic cliff-cradles all the way out across the sea.

Once you arrive, drop your bags and check into your stunning villa at Santo Pue Oia and refresh for an exciting local dinner at Metaxi Mas. Indulge in the finest traditional recipes over 20 years old with a gorgeous and romantic backdrop. The perfect way to get acquainted with the breathtaking island.

Ferry • Sea Jets
Day 7
Mykonos
9:50am
Day 7
Santorini
11:45am
Restaurant/Bar
Santorini, Greece
·
Metaxi Mas
Metaxi Mas
Day 7
Exo Gonia 847 00, Greece

Start the morning your way, waking up to immaculate views of the stunning Santorini cliff face, eating breakfast when and how you like. Set off on foot for the day to explore Fira’s whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, and later, stop for a fresh fish lunch at Psaraki.

When the sun is at its peak, travel up to the hilltop town of Oia and enjoy an exclusive personalised photoshoot at your chosen location on the island – the perfect way to capture the beautiful memory of your time on the island.

After the photo session, pay a visit on foot to Akrotiri, long-lost ancient city, and learn about some of the history of the ancient island.

Close out the glorious day with dinner at Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna and take in amazing sunset views on the water’s edge while indulging in some of the island’s most authentic cuisine and wine. Explore some of the bars and clubs on offer on the island and once you’re ready to head home to bed, be tempted by a late-night gyros at Santorini Souvlaki.

Attraction
Thira, Greece
·
Oia
Oia
Day 8
Oia 847 02, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Anatoliki Attiki, Greece
·
Psaraki
Psaraki
Day 8
Evaggelistrias, Kalivia Thorikou 190 10, Greece
Attraction
Thira, Greece
·
Akrotiri
Akrotiri
Day 8
Akrotiri 847 00, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Santorini, Greece
·
Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna
Dimitris Ammoudi Taverna
Day 8
1, Oia, Ormos Ammoudiou 847 02, Greece
Attraction
Santorini, Greece
·
Fira- Santorini
Fira- Santorini
Day 8
Epar.Od. Firon-Ormou Perissis, Mesaria 847 00, Greece

Start another day in paradise with a fun-filled sailing cruise from Vlychada Marina to visit some of Santorini’s most popular attractions.

Visit the Red and White Beaches, swim at Mesa Pigadia, sail past the lighthouse and the caldera, pass by the volcano, swim at the hot springs and enjoy the buffet lunch complete with a generous spirit and beverage selection.

In the afternoon, either relax in your villa, splash around in the resort pool, or travel to Santo Winery to sample some of the island’s finest drops straight from the vine.

For your final evening on Greece’s most romantic island, indulge in a honeymoon worthy dinner at Selene, or pop into a non-touristy local favourite; Kokkalo, if you’re after something a little more low key. Wherever you choose to go, enjoy sprawling views of the crumbling cliff faces and crystal clear waters below while cheersing a glass of ouzo to the island!

Restaurant/Bar
Santorini, Greece
·
Kokkalo
Kokkalo
Day 9
25is Martiou 25, Thira 847 00, Greece
Attraction
Greece
·
Mesa Pigadia Beach
Mesa Pigadia Beach
Day 9
Mesa Pigadia Beach, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Santorini, Greece
·
Selene Restaurant
Selene Restaurant
Day 9
Fira town, Thira Old catholic monastery, Thira 847 00, Greece
Attraction
Thira, Greece
·
Vlychada Marina
Vlychada Marina
Day 9
Santorini 847 00, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Thira, Greece
·
Santo Wines
Santo Wines
Day 9
Pyrgos Kallistis 847 00, Greece

Enjoy your final breakfast overlooking magnificent views of Santorini before packing up and boarding another ferry. This time you’re headed to the Greece’s largest and most populated island: Crete. From delicious Greek cuisine, breathtaking beaches and local wineries to the welcoming atmosphere, captivating villages and, of course, rich history – Crete is an oasis of everything great about the Greek islands.

Once you touch down at the pier, head to your luxury accommodation and check into your beautiful home at Blue Palace Elounda for the next five days.

After relaxing and settling in, go out on food to enjoy the traditional food and drink by touring around some of the local tavernas. Try tasty Cretan Cheeses, Kalitsounia - a proper cheesy delight and Dakos - made from chunks of rusk, ripe tomatoes, sheep’s cheese and lashings of Greek olive oil, paired with delectable local wines and classic glasses of ouzo – the Greek way.

Ferry
Day 10
Santorini
Crete
Attraction
Chania, Greece
·
Taverna Leventogiannis
Taverna Leventogiannis
Day 10
Theriso 731 00, Greece

Spend the morning leisurely eating breakfast, sipping Greek coffee and admiring the sparkling views of Crete and the incredible sea below before getting ready for a beach day.

First up, drive to the crystal blue waters and rocky landscapes of Seitan Limania Beach, where you can take a relaxing dip, canyon down the cliffs or chill out on the sand. Drive around the rocky mountains and find quaint little villages scattered all over the remote island, feel free to explore them, even find a charming little gyros place for lunch.

Continue your relaxing beach day with a trip to the glorious turquoise waters of Balos Lagoon, or kick things up a notch to adventurer territory with a large hike through the Samaria Gorge. Although the hike is not for the faint hearted, the sheer beauty of the scenery is worth the trip.

After all of your swimming and exploring, treat yourself to a delicious and modern take on traditional Cretan cuisine at Elia & Diosmos. Vibrant and tasty, the menu includes fresh seafood, local meats, and vegetarian options, all prepared with care and attention to detail.

Restaurant/Bar
Iraklio, Greece
·
Elia and Diosmos - Olive Mint
Elia and Diosmos - Olive Mint
Day 11
Ifigeneias 1, Skalani 715 00, Greece
Attraction
Chania, Greece
·
Seitan Limania
Seitan Limania
Day 11
Seitan limania, Akrotiri, Greece
Attraction
Greece
·
Balos Beach
Balos Beach
Day 11
Balos Beach, Greece
Attraction
Chania, Greece
·
Samaria Gorge
Samaria Gorge
Day 11
Samaria Gorge, Sfakia 730 11, Greece

Wake up in paradise, fuel up and prepare to spend the day exploring Spinalonga Island. Sail to Spinalonga from Elounda and feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Find centuries of history packed within the walls that encircle the islet.

On arrival at the islet, become immersed in its history straight away. Over the years, Spinalonga has been a Venetian outpost, an Ottoman town and a leper colony, which led to it being dubbed the ‘isle of tears'. Enjoy a guided walk around the Venetian fortress, the main street, still lined with shops and houses and look round the old hospital and graveyard. After fascinating visit, board the boat and sail back to Elounda.

Once you return from your cruise, relax in the hotel, pool, or nearby beach until dinner time. Indulge in a lovely high-end dining experience at Peskesi to perfectly end this glorious day. Located in Heraklion, the venue is committed to using only the finest locally sourced ingredients to create authentic Cretan dishes that change seasonally, with a wine list that features some of the best labels from Crete and Greece.

Attraction
Greece
·
Spinalonga
Spinalonga
Day 12
Spinalonga, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Iraklio, Greece
·
Peskesi
Peskesi
Day 12
Kapetan Charalampi 6-8, Iraklio 712 02, Greece

Once you rise and dine on a delicious breakfast, travel to the gorgeous cut-off village of Loutro. Explore the seaside charm and the variety of the island’s namesake ancient baths and magnificent coastlines.

Travel to one of Crete’s largest cities, Chania, and stop at Kanoni for a relaxed lunch. This family-run restaurant in Chania offers delicious traditional Cretan food like stuffed vegetables or grilled meats paired perfectly with a glass of raki.

Spend the day leisurely wandering through the vibrant city of Chania, taking in the exciting historical districts and stunning beaches. Finish the day in style with a luxurious seafood dinner at Chania’s Thalassino Ageri. The perfect place to unwind and connect, set on a beautiful beach with stunning views of the sea, the menu features the freshest catch of the day, as well as locally sourced vegetables and herbs.

Attraction
Chania, Greece
·
Chania
Chania
Day 13
Chania, Greece
Attraction
Chania, Greece
·
Loutro
Loutro
Day 13
Loutro, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Κέρκυρα, Greece
·
Cafe Kanoni
Cafe Kanoni
Day 13
κανόνι, Κέρκυρα 491 00, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Chania, Greece
·
Thalassino Ageri
Thalassino Ageri
Day 13
Vivilaki str 35 Tabakaria, Chania 731 33, Greece

Today, after breakfast, take advantage of the opportunity to visit Europe's oldest city. Travel to the deeply historic city of Knossos, which found its feet as early as the Neolithic period and continues as the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete.

After you’ve finished wandering around the ancient city, grab a light lunch on the way to your tour of Western Crete’s winery and olive oil estates. Enjoy the area's best bits, with wine tasting at Karavitakis Winery, sampling organic olive oil at the Biolea Estate and relaxing on Falassarna beach.

After refreshing in your villa, wrap up your time in Crete with a relaxed dinner at Tamam. Located in the heart of Heraklion, this cosy and welcoming restaurant offers a fusion of Greek, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern flavors. The perfect way to end your time on this incredible island.

Attraction
Heraklion, Greece
·
Knossos
Knossos
Day 14
Knossos 714 09, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Chania, Greece
·
Falassarna Big Beach
Falassarna Big Beach
Day 14
Phalasarna 734 00, Greece
Attraction
Chania, Greece
·
TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA
TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA
Day 14
49 Zampeliou str Old Harbour, Chania 731 00, Greece

Enjoy a sleep in and a relaxed breakfast before checking out of your hotel and saying goodbye to the Greek islands! Jump aboard the ferry back to the mainland and arrive in Athens in just a few hours.

After you check into your luxury accommodation at NEW Hotel, feel free to spend the rest of the day how you like – whether that be making the most of the Greek cuisine, continuing your sightseeing journey, or chilling out in the hotel’s rooftop bar.

For your final dinner in Greece, try a fine dining experience on Athen’s most scenic terrace at Orizontes, or indulge in a Michelin-starred experience by the sea at the wonderful Varoulko.

Ferry
Day 15
Crete
Athens
Restaurant/Bar
Pireas, Greece
·
Varoulko Seaside Restaurant
Varoulko Seaside Restaurant
Day 15
Akti Koumoundourou 54, Pireas 104 35, Greece
Restaurant/Bar
Kentrikos Tomeas Athinon, Greece
·
Orizontes Lycabettus
Orizontes Lycabettus
Day 15
Aristippou 1, Athina 106 76, Greece

Sadly we’ve come to the end of our trip. After your final breakfast in Greece, check out of your luxury accommodation, say a teary goodbye to Athens and head to the airport for your journey either home or onwards. Until next time!

Attraction
Anatoliki Attiki, Greece
·
Athens International Airport
Athens International Airport
Day 16
Attiki Odos, Spata 190 04, Greece
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