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Athens, Naxos & Santorini Itinerary: From Ancient Myths to Island Bliss
11 Days
4 Stops
Private transfer
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From$5,500
per personAccommodations
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Flights
Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertMy team and I crafted this trip! Want to make it even more your style? Let’s chat — you can book a free planning call with me.
My team and I crafted this trip! Want to make it even more your style? Let’s chat — you can book a free planning call with me.
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Athens
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.
Your accommodation
Acropolian Spirit Boutique Hotel
Centrally located in Athens, Greece, the Acropolian Spirit Boutique Hotel is an excellent accommodation option for leisure and business travellers. The hotel offers well-appointed and comfortable rooms and suites equipped with central heating/cooling, TVs, mini-fridges, private bathrooms, hairdryers, safety deposit boxes, and toiletries. Guests can start each day with a delightful breakfast buffet on-site. Facilities and services include a 24-hour reception, a restaurant, a bar, room service, a lobby lounge, wake-up calls, and Wi-Fi.
Your activity
Athens Tour: Parthenon & Acropolis
Short on time but want to see everything that Athens has to offer? We know how to get you around all the ‘must see’ sites and sights. Our Athens city tour takes you to the most important sites of the historic capital. The Panathenaic Stadium was the site of the first Olympic Games of modern times in 1896. The Prime Minister's residence (ex. Royal Palace) is guarded by the Evzones in their colorful uniform. The Temple of Olympian Zeus,Hadrian's Arch, Parliament, and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier, the Academy, the University, the National Library, and Omonia Square. We make a short stop at each place. Of course, we can’t leave out the Acropolis, home to the Architectural Masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: The Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and ‘the harmony between material and spirit’, the monument that ‘puts the order in the mind’, the Parthenon and the Theatre of Dionysus'. Concluding the tour, we will visit the new Acropolis Museum and admire the wonders of the classical era.
Naxos
Day 5 - 6
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.
Your accommodation
Porto Naxos Hotel
Porto Naxos Hotel is located just minutes from the heart of Naxos old town and the sandy beach of Agios Georgios. The accommodation features a selection of rooms and suites, each equipped with air conditioning, minibars, hairdryers, LCD TVs and safety deposit boxes. Guests can enjoy delicious dishes at the on-site restaurant. Other amenities available to guests include a pool bar, swimming pools, a tennis court, a sauna and a fitness centre.
Your activity
Photography Tour Naxos
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.
Imerovigli
Day 7 - 9
Nicknamed the ‘Balcony to the Aegean’, Imerovigli is a captivating village on the northern coast of Santorini, set 3.5 kilometres from the island’s capital, Fira. This ancient settlement offers inspiring views of the volcano, caldera, and, at one time, approaching pirates. With its whitewashed structures topped by bright blue domes, cave house settlements, and network of walking paths, the town offers the quintessential Greek experience. Take the Ekklesia Theoskepasti hiking trail past the thirteenth-century ruins of the Skaros Venetian Fortress, or wander between the enthralling historic churches and cathedrals that dot the town (Ai-Stratis and the Monastery of Saint Nikolaos are particular highlights). An array of guided tours, trips out on the water, and top-notch shops, luxury spas, and highly-acclaimed restaurants complete the package.
Your accommodation
Santorini Palace Hotel
Santorini Palace Hotel is located only a few meters away from the cliff of the Caldera, and offers panoramic views of the volcano. The hotel features a combination of beautiful Cycladic architecture, open spaces, resort facilities and proximity to interesting sites. Guests can enjoy the peaceful hotel spa atmosphere, keep up with fitness routines in the fully equipped gym, relax by the pool, take a walk on the Caldera’s promenade or experience the Fira cosmopolitan nightlife. The Santorini Palace hotel is ideal for combining leisure and business, couples or family vacation, due to the vast scope of it’s facilities.
Your activity
Volcan View Candlelight Dinner
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
- TUNA Marinated with citrus, fava, Grape and pistachio
- MUSHROOMS Variety mushrooms with topinambur cream, soya glaze and sesame
- BEEF Slices with celeriac root, wild greens and lemon sauce
- SEAFOOD TARTAR With grilled lettuce, aioli sauce
Main Course
- FISH OF THE DAY Fillet with artichoke, asparagus and lemon egg sauce
Or
- LAMB With vegetables and lemon sauce with fresh oregano
Dessert
WALLNUTS CAKE With Tiramisu cream and caramel sauce
Athens
Day 10 - 11
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.
Your accommodation
The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel
The Athenian Callirhoe Exclusive Hotel is perfectly situated in the heart of Athens City, Greece, near the Kallimarmaro Stadium, the Acropolis, the Brand New Acropolis Museum, and Plaka. The hotel’s cosy and elegantly decorated rooms and suites feature tea/coffee-making facilities, central heating/cooling, workspaces, private bathrooms, minibars, hairdryers, flat-screen TVs, and laptop-sized safes. Accommodations with balconies are available. Facilities and services include restaurants, a bar, daily housekeeping, a sauna, a gym, and Wi-Fi.
From$5,500
per personAccommodations
Transportation
24/7 support
Activities
Tourlane App
Travel plan
Flights
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Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
36+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
16+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
7+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Why plan with an expert?
170+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
36+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
16+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
7+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Itinerary inspiration
This Athens, Naxos & Santorini itinerary combines ancient history, island charm, and romantic seascapes in one seamless trip of around ten days. Begin in Athens, where the Parthenon and Acropolis Museum reveal Greece’s glorious past. Enjoy the lively streets of Plaka, taste local specialties, and witness the sunset from Cape Sounion before heading to the islands.
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Next, sail to Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades, known for its golden beaches, mountain villages, and relaxed rhythm. Wander the narrow lanes of Naxos Town, sample island flavors on a local food tour, or admire the ancient Portara at dusk.
Continue your adventure to Santorini, where dramatic cliffs frame the island’s world-famous caldera. Indulge in a catamaran cruise, a winery visit, and a romantic photo shoot at Oia’s sunset, capturing memories against breathtaking views.
End your journey back in Athens for a final night, reflecting on temples, tavernas, and turquoise seas. Blending culture, cuisine, and coastal relaxation, this itinerary is a perfect introduction to the Greek islands—a journey from mythic landmarks to unforgettable island bliss.
Highlights:
Day 1 - 4: Athens
Day 5 - 6: Naxos
Day 7 - 9: Fira
Day 10 - 11: Athens
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Tips for your Greek Island Hopping Adventure
The best time to travel to Greece is generally from April to October. This period offers warm, dry weather, low rainfall, and ideal water temperatures. The summer months (June to September) are peak season, providing the best beach weather and warmest seas, especially for the islands like Naxos and Santorini. Visiting in late spring or early fall offers pleasant temperatures with fewer crowds.
The average cost of a one-week trip to Greece is approximately $1,100 per person, excluding flights, for a mid-range budget.
Accommodation (Per Person/Night): Expect to start at $65 for 2-3* hotels and around $150 for 4* hotels. Prices on islands like Santorini can be higher.
Flights (Round-Trip from JFK to Athens): Start at $800 for Economy Class.
Activities (Per Person): Tickets for major archaeological sites like the Acropolis typically cost between $15 and $22. Guided walking tours start around $65.
Athens: Visit the Acropolis and Parthenon, and explore the New Acropolis Museum. Take a guided tour to see sites like the Temple of Olympian Zeus and Hadrian's Arch. You can also enjoy an Athens by night tour with dinner and traditional Greek dancing in the Plaka neighborhood.
Santorini (Imerovigli): Enjoy the Oia sunset, often described as a highlight. You can take a private cruise around the island. The village of Imerovigli itself is known as the 'Balcony to the Aegean' for its magnificent caldera views.
Naxos: Explore the largest of the Cyclades islands. You can take a Naxos Town Food Tour to discover local cheeses and wine, or visit the ancient Portara (Temple of Apollo Gate) at dusk.
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