Discover Greek Culture, From Athens to Santorini - 10 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Athens - Explore the City

Welcome to Greece!

You'll begin your trip in the bustling capital of Athens, home to the iconic Acropolis. Your private driver will pick you up from Athens International Airport and take you to your luxury accommodation. The mythology of this spectacular city is palpable, with towering temples, nods to classical deities, and the ruins of ancient marketplaces accompanied by lively nightlife, crowded flea markets, and contemporary cuisine. Make the most of your time in the city at some of these must-see sites:

• Check out the views of the famous Parthenon, the temple that sits atop Acropolis Hill. This temple to Athena has enchanted visitors since its construction was completed in 438 BCE. It's probably the first thing that you picture when you think of ancient Greece and Athens. It's visible from many of the city's high points.
  
  
• Stop at the sprawling National Museum for a crash course in ancient iconography. Be sure to seek out the room housing the Antikythera mechanism, an ancient astronomical computer.
  
  
• Visit the smaller archaeological site at the Tower of the Winds, then stroll down neighboring pedestrian-only Aiolou Street to stop at shops and cafes. 
  
  
• Find your perfect souvenir in the busy stalls of the Monastiraki flea market. 

Ask your travel specialist for recommendations for the evening. There are many delicious eateries throughout the city, including Michelin star restaurants, taverns featuring home-cooked food, and trendy bars.

Day 2: Tour Athens' Ancient Greek Mythology

On the first day of your trip, you'll delve into Athens' unique history with a privately-guided mythology tour with an expert archaeologist. You'll view landmarks around the city, including the Acropolis and the Herodion Theatre. Your guide will tell you stories about Zeus, Athena, Poseidon, Dionysus, and more, all adding resonance to the archaeological ruins you'll visit on this 4-hour tour.

Following your guided tour, enjoy a leisurely, romantic stroll and explore the beating heart of the city. It's easy to lose yourself in the colorful network of streets in the city center, and in the island-like paths of Anafiotika neighborhood in Acropolis. You'll end your day relishing an elegant Greek dinner at a scenic restaurant overlooking the beautifully-lit Parthenon.

Day 3: Take a High-Speed Ferry to the Island of Folegandros

After breakfast, you'll travel by high-speed ferry to the island of Folegandros, a hidden gem that has long stood as a favorite summertime destination among the Athenians. This is no surprise considering the beauty and authenticity of its beaches and the quality of its main town, one of the most striking in Greece.

After settling into your accommodation, explore the Kastro neighborhood. This medieval-era district is very impressive, composing part of the main town and featuring old, white-washed houses. Its slightly aged look is enhanced by the colorful windows and doors, as well as the lively energy of its young residents. You'll find plenty of choices for dinner and drinks in this area. Simply stroll, relax, and absorb the overall magic of Folegandros.

Day 4: Explore Folegandros' Chora

Today you'll explore the charm of Folegandros' chora (main town), which features quaint squares and narrow roads enhanced by groves of plane trees. It's easy to relax here by simply strolling along the streets and sneaking views of the rocky coastline.

The best way to experience Folegandros is to eat. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to find a delicious lunch. Join locals on shared tables loaded with handmade pasta (matsata (often served with rooster)), snails (karavoli), orange pies, and almond-based sweets (amygdalota). Polish off your meal with a traditional liqueur, such as mastika which features a pine-like, herby flavor.

After lunch, walk to Panagia Church (Church of Virgin Mary), which is just 15 minutes away from Hora’s Pounta Square. Although it can prove a little challenging with its switchback, uphill climb, your efforts will be rewarded with unbeatable views of the island's terrain and the deep-blue hue of the sea.

Return to your accommodation to relax before heading out for a traditional dinner.

Day 5: Arrive in Santorini - Explore the Old Town

In the morning you'll fly to the popular island of Santorini. Upon arrival at the airport, a private driver will take you to your luxury accommodation. As you drive, enjoy the views over Santorini's iconic cliffside architecture.

Once settled into your hotel, revel in the views of the island's central caldera rising up in a crescent formation. Then go out and explore Santorini's main city, Fira. Enjoy the typical Cycladic and Venetian architecture and the Folklore Heritage Museum before taking the cable car down to the Old Port.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the numerous restaurants while sipping wine from one of the local wineries.

Day 6: Cruise Around Santorini in a Catamaran at Sunset

Enjoy a leisurely morning breakfast before taking some time to stroll around Fira, stopping in the quaint shops and boutiques. Continue your exploration of the capital city with visits to the Archaeological Museum of Santorini, the Museum of Prehistoric Thera, and the church of Hypapante.

As the late afternoon unfolds, you'll head toward Vlychada Port to board your semi-private catamaran cruise around the island. You'll stop at both the Red Beach and the White Beach, where you can enjoy time to swim and soak up the sun.

Enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner as you sail past the landmarks of southern Santorini, such as the Aspronisi, the Ancient Lighthouse, Indian Rock, and the prehistoric city at Akrotiri. These ruins are the site of some of the Bronze Age’s most advanced settlements, which prospered for centuries before being destroyed by a great volcanic eruption in the second millennium BCE.

Before returning to Fira, jump into the hot springs at Nea Kameni, where the mineral-rich volcanic waters are believed to have therapeutic properties.

Day 7: Guided Hike along Santorini's Caldera

The best way to enjoy the famous views of Santorini is to walk along its breathtaking caldera. We can thank one of the world's largest volcanic eruptions for creating the caldera, which is mostly submerged below the blue-hued Aegean Sea.

Your guide will start with a popular route out of Fira, then you'll ditch the crowds and enjoy some secret spots with incredible views. All the local guides are passionate about showing off their homes and love to bring guests to the hidden and more authentic side of the island. 

Before returning to Fira for the evening, you'll join your guide for an unforgettable picnic overlooking the caldera and the infinity of the Aegean Sea.

Day 8: Visit Santorini's Wineries

You may not have heard much about Santorini's wine scene; but what Santorini’s wineries lack in size, they make up for in passion, quality, and ambience. 
Today you'll visit some of the best wineries that the island has to offer, each visit its own unique experience.

All the wineries focus on the island's most rare and distinctive grape, the Assyrtiko grape. These Assyrtiko-Santorini wines were born from the Assyrtiko grape, which is indigenous to the island and cultivated in some of the world’s oldest vineyards dating back 3,500 years. Taste different varietals and learn how to distinguish the different notes from the winemakers. You'll find the wines to be very pleasant as the grapes thrive in the volcanic soil of the island.

After your wine tastings, you'll head back to your accommodation in Fira. Relax a bit before returning to the city's charming streets in search of a delicious dinner and sunset views.

Day 9: Sea Kayaking in Santorini

After breakfast, you'll transfer to the island's southern coast for a new perspective on Santorini. Hop in a sea kayak to enjoy spectacular rock formations, crystal waters, and beaches on the island's frequently overlooked southern side. The tour will last about 3 hours, with a stop for snorkeling to see some amazing sea creatures. 

Once you've returned to your hotel in Fira, enjoy a free afternoon to rest and relax before dinner. If you still have energy to explore more of Fira, visit the Archaeological Museum for a glimpse into the island's past, or stroll through the streets to scout for perfect souvenirs. In the evening, don't forget to enjoy your final sunset in Greece. Santorini is the perfect island for a mesmerizing sunset!

Day 10: Fly back to Athens - Depart

It's time to say goodbye to beautiful Greece. Enjoy one final breakfast before transferring to the airport or the port for your journey back home or to your next destination.