




Excellent
20 Days
8 Stops
Private transfer
Your tailor-made itinerary – No cost, no commitment
Excellent
The speedboat transfers between islands are the logistical decision that makes this three-week circuit function at pace, and it's the structural call I'm most often asked to justify. The high-speed crossing from Athens to Mykonos takes around two and a half hours, and chaining the islands by speedboat rather than standard ferry keeps the rhythm without the four-to-six hour crossings that slow the conventional route. The Rethymno jeep safari into the Amari Valley is the Crete experience worth protecting over any beach afternoon; the plateau villages and the gorge road back toward the coast show an island that the seafront hotels never reach. For Santorini with three nights, book the candlelight dinner and the sunset cruise on separate evenings: the caldera at dusk from the water and from a clifftop table are two completely different experiences, and running them on the same night shortchanges both.
The speedboat transfers between islands are the logistical decision that makes this three-week circuit function at pace, and it's the structural call I'm most often asked to justify. The high-speed crossing from Athens to Mykonos takes around two and a half hours, and chaining the islands by speedboat rather than standard ferry keeps the rhythm without the four-to-six hour crossings that slow the conventional route. The Rethymno jeep safari into the Amari Valley is the Crete experience worth protecting over any beach afternoon; the plateau villages and the gorge road back toward the coast show an island that the seafront hotels never reach. For Santorini with three nights, book the candlelight dinner and the sunset cruise on separate evenings: the caldera at dusk from the water and from a clifftop table are two completely different experiences, and running them on the same night shortchanges both.
Day 1 - 4
Dominating the Attica region of Greece, the country’s capital, Athens, is one of the oldest cities in the world. For over two and a half centuries, the astonishing Greek temples and monuments of Athens have continued to intrigue and amaze visitors from around the world. This icon of western civilization seamlessly combines ancient history with modern architecture and a surprisingly lively atmosphere. This is particularly apparent in areas at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Thissio where visitors will find numerous extraordinary Neoclassical buildings, trendy and traditional cafes, and shops, and narrow winding streets with historical treasures at every turn. Once you have enjoyed a history and art fix, try some mouth-watering Greek cuisine at one of the city’s fine local restaurants before indulging in the insatiable nightlife at the chic cocktail bars and waterfront dance clubs.








Explore some of Greece’s greatest treasures and the best of modern Athens on this zero-carbon, 3.5-hour morning sightseeing tour. With an expert guide, enjoy a coach tour of Athens’ major landmarks, including the Greek Parliament and the Panathenaic Stadium, before exploring the Acropolis on foot to see the majestic Parthenon and other highlights.
The tour begins with a panoramic drive around Syntagma Square, passing the National Garden, Hadrian’s Arch, St. Paul’s Church, the Parliament, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Catholic Cathedral, and Schliemann’s House. Continue past the Athens Trilogy—the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, and the National Library—while your licensed guide shares insights into Athens’ rich history, both ancient and modern.
Pass by the Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896 and the only stadium built entirely of white marble. Continue past the Zappeion and the Temple of Olympian Zeus before arriving at the Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, explore the Propylaea, the monumental entrance blending Doric and Ionic architecture, the small Temple of Athena Nike perched on a rocky outcrop protecting the citadel gate, and, of course, the Parthenon and the Erechtheion with its famous Porch of the Maidens.
This half-day Acropolis tour allows you to experience one of the world’s top UNESCO heritage sites while saving valuable time, making it a perfect introduction to Athens’ history and culture.
Group Size: Max pax 48
Day 5 - 6
Out of all of the Cyclades - the group of islands that surround the sacred Greek island of Delos - Mykonos is perhaps the most famous. It is known for its gorgeous green rolling hills, exquisite beaches and the glamorous, cosmopolitan crowd that typically vacations here. While Mykonos makes for an ideal base for archaeological day trips to the nearby islands, the island itself has plenty to offer. Spend your days exploring the quaint winding alleyways strewn with iconic whitewashed houses; sailing around the picturesque harbour and out into the glistening Aegean Sea; unwinding on the idyllic beaches, and dining in the numerous fine restaurants. If it’s unforgettable nightlife, a bit of luxury, and plenty of natural beauty you are after, Mykonos is undoubtedly the destination for you.










Everyone who has visited Greece has tasted at least once the famous “souvlaki”. Considered the national fast food and a trademark of Greek culture, it is a tasteful combination of small pieces or slices of meat and sometimes vegetables grilled on a skewer. It is often eaten straight off the skewer while still hot but is usually served nowadays inside a rolled pita bread, with lemon, sauces (often tzatziki), vegetables such as sliced tomato and onion and sometimes fried potatoes. The art of souvlaki can be taught at the Mykonian Farm where guests will be transferred and will be wholeheartedly welcomed by the Farm’s superintendent. They will be escorted to a specially arranged area of the farm, where they will witness and learn the secrets of making the best souvlaki in Mykonos. The course will include marinating of the ingredients, skewing of the meat, preparaƟon of the vegetables (cuttng, slicing) and a cooking demonstration of the main sauce of the souvlaki, the tzatziki. Participants will then take part in a tzatziki competion with the target of making the best sauce. We will then proceed to grill the meat and in the end, wrap all ingredients in pita bread.
All participants will create their own souvlaki (with the supervision of course of the head griller), they will get to enjoy it, together with a Greek salad & a beer.Discover the art of Greece’s iconic fast food: souvlaki. This flavorful skewer of grilled meat and vegetables, often served in a warm pita with tzatziki, lemon, and fresh produce, is a must-try on Mykonos. At the Mykonian Farm, guests are welcomed by the farm superintendent and guided to a dedicated area to learn the secrets of making the perfect souvlaki. The class covers marinating and skewering meat, preparing vegetables, and creating the signature tzatziki sauce. Guests even compete to make the best tzatziki before grilling their souvlaki and assembling it in a pita.
Each participant enjoys their own freshly made souvlaki, accompanied by a Greek salad and a refreshing beer.
Start time: 17:00
Group size: Max 20 pax
Day 7 - 8
Situated in the Aegean Sea, the Greek island of Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Archipelago. Its fertile landscape features ancient ruins, quaint mountain villages with sheep-dotted slopes, and vast stretches of magnificent beaches. With their crystal-clear waters, soft white sands and watersports such as swimming, windsurfing, kitesurfing and surfing on offer, the beaches here provide the ultimate holiday experience, while the island’s lush interior makes it an ideal destination for hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts. Make sure to visit the mysterious Cave of Zas, filled with incredible stalactite formations and dedicated to Zeus in ancient times. The wide variety of historic attractions includes breathtaking Venetian mansions, Byzantine country churches, and the medieval old quarter of Kastro, with its centuries-old stone paving, arches and buildings.










Beautiful beaches, golden sunsets, the Venetian citadel, the lively old market, Portara - the island's
landmark - along with mountain views and stunning landscapes create the perfect backdrop for your
experience. A professional photographer will not only guide you to the most photogenic spots of Naxos
but will also share practical tips and a short photography lesson, helping you improve your skills while
capturing the island through your own lens.
Immortalize your holiday moments with a photo tour that combines exploration and learning. Stroll
through picturesque alleys and traditional villages, discover hidden corners, and take part in a hands-on
photography experience. With professional guidance, you will capture images that reflect both the beauty
of Naxos and your personal perspective, creating memories that will last long after your journey.
Start time: 9 am
Group size: Max 10 pax
Day 9 - 10
Naoussa is a beautiful, authentic-feeling fishing village set on the north side of Paros, Greece, 10 kilometres east of Parikia (the capital city). A 15th-century Venetian Fortress watches over the port, where it once defended the city against pirate invasions. The Piperi town beach provides the perfect place to take a dip in the crystal clear waters, for which the town is famous, along with its true-to-culture atmosphere and brightly coloured sea-facing bars and restaurants. Take a full-day sailing cruise, enjoy the freshest, most traditional seafood dishes, and explore the winding cobbled alleyways up the hill.










Embark on unforgettable new adventures aboard our traditional Kaiki, a wooden motorboat typically used by fishermen, as we explore the stunning islands of Antiparos and Despotiko. We'll arrange a convenient transfer from your hotel (or a nearby stop) to the port of Pounta.
Get ready to uncover the hidden gems of the Aegean Sea that are only accessible by boat. With crystal-clear waters, you'll truly feel like you've stepped into paradise! Our journey begins at 10:00 am from the Pounta port, where we will guide you to breathtaking beaches, sea caves, and small islands, leaving you in awe of the exotic destinations around you. This cruise offers a unique opportunity to reconnect with the untamed beauty and natural wonders of the area.
While the following itinerary is indicative, our captain will select the best locations for each cruise based on the weather conditions, ensuring you have an extraordinary experience around Antiparos and Despotiko islands. Discover the enchanting Panteronissi, where the turquoise waters will make you feel as if you're swimming in a vast pool crafted by nature herself. The wild landscapes of the southeast coast feature cliffs that dive into the sea, creating a chain of caves, including the captivating cave of Mastichari. Enjoy several stops for swimming in these crystal blue waters!
During the trip, we'll provide morning coffee, a snack, and a BBQ lunch featuring either chicken or pork skewers, paired with two types of salads, tzatziki, pita bread, and of course, local beverages such as white house wine, soft drinks, and mineral water. For dessert, indulge in delicious fresh fruits. We'll return to the port of Pounta at 4:30 pm, followed by a transfer back to your hotel or a nearby stop.
Day 11 - 12
The lush, hilly island of Ios lies in the Cyclades archipelago of the Aegean Sea, roughly halfway between Naxos and Santorini, and is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, rich heritage and delicious local food. This is the ultimate Greek party island, with parties all night long, fantastic cocktail bars, and regular music festivals. Those looking for something calmer can discover the island’s history by taking the trail along the eastern part of the island to Palaiokastro, ancient Byzantine remains of a fortress. Ios is also scattered with about 365 churches, many of which are designated historical monuments. The numerous golden sandy beaches provide ample opportunities for swimming, watersports, walks, sunbathing, and sundowners. Make sure to try local delicacies such as watermelon pie (mosenta), stuffed zucchini flowers (tsimetia) and cheese curd (gritsi).










The tour begins at the Odysseas Elytis Amphitheater, an open-air theater dedicated to Greece’s Nobel Prize-winning poet. Built from local stone, it overlooks Ios Town and the Aegean Sea, offering one of the most striking panoramic views on the island.
We then continue north to visit the Tomb of Homer, the legendary resting place of the ancient Greek poet. Surrounded by the wild landscape of Ios, the site offers both historical interest and a quiet atmosphere for reflection.
The last stop is Palaiokastro, the remains of a Venetian castle built at an altitude of 275 meters to protect the island from pirate invasions. To reach the site, we follow a short hike along a traditional stone trail, surrounded by natural vegetation and views of the sea. From the top, the panorama over the Aegean and nearby islands is truly rewarding.
This three-hour tour combines culture, history, and natural beauty, providing a perfect overview for first-time visitors to Ios.
Day 13 - 15
Perched on a 220-metre-high cliff overlooking the vivid blue waters of the Aegean Sea, Fira is Santorini's cultural and commercial capital that beckons those in search of breathtaking views, stunning sunsets, delectable local cuisine, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Facing the volcano on the island's western edge, Fira is a bustling cosmopolitan town characterised by a mixed sample of Cycladic and Venetian styles woven together by labyrinth streets that cater to daytime adventures and nighttime sprees. Embark on a fascinating exploration of the town's local museums, restaurants, coffee shops, and archaeological sites by hopping on a cable car heading to remarkable churches and iconic landmarks. For a deep dive into local history, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thira, the Archaeological Museum, and the Santozeum. End the day with a leisurely cruise to the volcano from the Old Port on a luxury yacht or traditional wooden sailing boat.








For a majestic dining experience full of romance, enjoy a private candlelight dinner with outstanding views to the sunset and the imposing caldera. The candlelight dinner is offered at an isolated spot of the property, with exquisite sunset views that ensure absolute dining pleasure. Delicious dishes, made of the best local products, compose the perfect ambience for romantic moments in Santorini. Enchant your senses and feel the emotions overflowing!
Homemade bread
Main Course
Or
Dessert
WALLNUTS CAKE With Tiramisu cream and caramel sauce
Day 16 - 18
The fifth-largest city in all of Greece, Heraklion serves as the island's capital on the island of Crete. This cosmopolitan centre boasts many thriving urban cafes and restaurants, a vibrant nightlife, and excellent shopping - all close to the renowned ancient ruins. The breathtaking, intricate and massive Palace of Knossos was, according to legend, designed to be so complex that it was impossible to find the way out, and its Labyrinth is known as the dwelling place of the Minotaur, famous in Greek Mythology. Other heritage attractions include the enormous Archaeological Museum, which displays relics from the Minoan and post-Minoan era; and the fascinating historic city centre. Make sure to see the Byzantine-era Cathedral of Agios Titos, one of the most important monuments in Crete.














Join your guide on a full-day tour through Crete’s mountains, combining nature, traditional villages, and ancient history, ending at the famous Knossos Palace.
The tour begins at the Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa, a peaceful home to nuns. Inside, see the revered icon of the Virgin Mary and admire 14th-century wall paintings and religious art.
Next, explore the Lasithi Plateau, a green valley 850 meters above sea level, surrounded by the Dikti Mountains. Discover its 18 traditional villages, white windmills, and old stone channels used for farming.
In the village of Psychro, visit the Dicteon Cave, said to be the birthplace of Zeus, with impressive rock formations. You’ll also see a local pottery workshop demonstrating traditional ceramic-making techniques.
Stop in Tzermiado, the largest village on the plateau, for a relaxing Cretan lunch with stunning mountain views.
The day ends at Knossos Palace, the heart of the Minoan civilization. Your guide will lead you through the ruins, sharing stories of King Minos, the Minotaur, and the legendary Labyrinth.
A perfect day blending mythology, culture, and Crete’s natural beauty.
Day 19 - 20
Dominating the Attica region of Greece, the country’s capital, Athens, is one of the oldest cities in the world. For over two and a half centuries, the astonishing Greek temples and monuments of Athens have continued to intrigue and amaze visitors from around the world. This icon of western civilization seamlessly combines ancient history with modern architecture and a surprisingly lively atmosphere. This is particularly apparent in areas at the foot of the Acropolis, Anafiotika, Plaka, Monastiraki, and Thissio where visitors will find numerous extraordinary Neoclassical buildings, trendy and traditional cafes, and shops, and narrow winding streets with historical treasures at every turn. Once you have enjoyed a history and art fix, try some mouth-watering Greek cuisine at one of the city’s fine local restaurants before indulging in the insatiable nightlife at the chic cocktail bars and waterfront dance clubs.







200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
61+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
26+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
11+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
61+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
26+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
11+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Athens for four days, then five islands in sequence before Crete closes the journey and a final Athens night brings it full circle — twenty days that cover ancient Greece, the Cyclades, and Crete's particular blend of Venetian history and mountain landscape. Ios between Paros and Santorini is the editorial choice that tends to surprise people. It has a quieter, less-visited character than its immediate neighbors and the half-day guided island exploration reveals a side of the Cyclades that the more famous names rarely offer.
A detail worth planning ahead on the Santorini section: the candlelight dinner experience works best on the final evening, when you know the island well enough to appreciate the setting. The Aressana Spa Hotel in Fira gives you the caldera rim and immediate access to both the village paths and the ferry connections southward.
Hotel: The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel
The Acropolis guided tour, the Cape Sounion sunset excursion, the Peloponnese day to Epidaurus, Mycenae, and Nafplio, and the Meteora excursion anchor four days in the capital with genuine substance. The Athenian Callirhoe's rooftop view toward the Parthenon at dusk is worth using before dinner on the first evening — it orients you to the city in a way that no amount of walking quite does.
Hotel: Harmony Boutique Hotel
Getting into Mykonos Town before the lanes fill changes how the island reads entirely. The optional Delos excursion in the afternoon earns a full discussion: the uninhabited island is one of the most significant ancient sites in the Aegean, and most cruise and ferry passengers miss it entirely in favor of the beaches.
Hotel: Polis of Naxos Boutique Hotel
The sunset catamaran cruise around the coastline and the Naxos Town food tour give two nights real substance. Naxos produces more of its own food than any other island in the Cyclades — the Graviera cheese, the kitron liqueur, the volcanic potatoes — and the food tour makes that tangible in a way that a restaurant meal alone never fully does.
Hotel: St. Andreas Sea Side Resort
The Antiparos and Despotiko cruise gives you the coastline from the water. Naoussa on the north coast is the most characterful village on Paros and rewards a late afternoon and evening at the harbor without any particular agenda.
Hotel: Relux Ios Hotel
Ios tends to be written off as a party island, and that reputation misses the point. The Chora on the hill above the port is a genuine medieval village, and the half-day guided exploration of the island reveals walking paths, Byzantine churches, and coastal views that the beach circuit never surfaces.
Hotel: Aressana Spa Hotel & Suites
Three nights on the caldera rim with the cruise, winery visit, and Oia sunset on one day, the photo experience and village exploration on another, and the candlelight dinner experience closing the final evening. Santorini's volcanic-soil Assyrtiko — grown in low basket vines and producing a mineral character entirely unlike anything else in the Cyclades — earns a proper tasting rather than just a glass at dinner.
Hotel: Nautilux
The jeep safari and the wine and olive experiences give Crete's inland character a genuine introduction. The Venetian harbor and old town in Rethymno fill a second full day at walking pace — the Rimondi Fountain, the loggia, and the narrow lanes behind the harbor are best explored in the morning before the harbor cafés fill up.
Hotel: The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel
A relaxed final evening in Athens before departure. The Koukaki and Filopappou neighborhoods, within walking distance of the hotel, are the right setting for a slow last dinner with the Acropolis lit on the hill above.
Custom holiday packages and trips that fit your budget
Itineraries built exactly to your needs
A personal English-speaking, native-European travel expert for every step
Full service assistance before, during, and after your trip
The most enjoyable time for a three-week trip spanning the mainland and multiple islands is the shoulder season (late April to June and September to October). This period offers a fantastic balance of warm, sunny weather for beach hopping in the Cyclades and comfortable temperatures for exploring historical sites like the Acropolis or the monasteries of Meteora.
The cost for a multi-destination trip like this varies significantly based on your accommodation and activity choices, especially on islands like Santorini and Mykonos. Generally, a mid-range, week-long trip to Greece costs approximately $1,100, excluding international flights. Since this trip is three weeks and includes high-demand destinations, plan accordingly.
➔ Travel cost Greece | Travel cost Mykonos | Travel cost Santorini
Your trip offers a blend of historical depth and island relaxation. Must-do activities include touring the Acropolis in Athens and visiting the ruins of Mycenae and Epidaurus. On the islands, highlights include taking a souvlaki cooking class in Mykonos, going on a catamaran cruise in Naxos, and experiencing a scenic photo session in the iconic clifftop villages of Santorini.
With many ferry connections, planning your routes and booking tickets well in advance is essential to avoid stress. Also, be aware that islands like Mykonos are known for vibrant nightlife and party beaches, while places like Naxos and Paros offer more traditional, family-friendly experiences. Finally, renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the diverse landscapes of the large island of Crete.
Give us a few details like destination, travel preferences, and budget to receive a free personalized travel itinerary in minutes.
In a one-on-one consultation, we pair you with an English-speaking, native-European travel expert to customize your trip even more, making it unique to you and providing in-depth knowledge on every destination.
Or better yet, we’ll book it for you. Every detail is covered by us and you’ll have dedicated guides with you every step of the way, so you can focus on the fun. No action needed — just enjoy the ride.

Island hopping Cyclades Islands
We took a trip with tourlane in May 2024. We came across tourlane by chance. We went island hopping in the Greek Cyclades with a flight and organized transfer from island to island by ferry and private transfer to the hotels. Everything was perfectly organized and planned.

Island hopping Greece

Hello dear Tourlane Team!

Family trip to Greece
We had Tourlane plan a vacation with island hopping in Greece. Rental cars on every island, interesting hotels plus ferries and domestic flights. It was great how such a package was put together from our wishes. We are now looking forward to our vacation. Highly recommended.
Greece ISLAND HOPPING START: Athens, then we took the ferry to Paros, 4 days later to Naxos and finally 3 days to Santorini! You were so great! The island hopping went really well thanks to you! From cab, ferry to 3-star hotel, the whole organization! EVERYTHING TOP! And booking the trip was also super easy! I just want to say thank you, it was the best 14 days for a long time
We planned and carried out a family trip with Tourane. The entire planning went smoothly and all our wishes were taken into account. What was particularly pleasant were the very well organized transfers and hotels. Everything went very smoothly so that we could concentrate on the family vacation experience. We will be happy to use the Tourlane service for future family trips.