Greek Island Odyssey
9 Days Starting in Athens, Greece and ending in athen
Visiting: Athens, Naxos, Fira
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GRC
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 18
Age range:
25-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
From:
$2519
$2406 (USD)
Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$113
NB: Prices correct on 17-May-2024 but subject to change.
Tour Overview
Embrace the many facets of what makes Greece such a dreamy summer destination across nine days of city touring and island hopping with our Local Insider. In Athens you’ll get a guided tour of the Acropolis, but you’ll also discover lively modern neighbourhoods adorned with epic works of graffiti and thriving food scenes. Then we set sail for the Cyclades, heading first to Naxos, where you’ll get a glimpse into the quaint beauty of the island’s laid-back approach to life. Finally, we hop across to Santorini, home to an iconic whitewashed skyline and arguably the prettiest sunset on the planet.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Your Greek Retreat Begins!
Location: Athens
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Brown Spices
Meals Included: Dinner
Make your way to our city centre hotel from Athens International Airport (ATH) and enjoy some free time to explore the surrounding neighbourhood. We’ll gather as a group for the first time at around 6pm this evening, when you’ll meet our Local Insider – your expert guide for the trip – in the hotel lobby. Ice firmly broken, we’ll head over to a nearby rooftop restaurant for cocktails and an assortment of small plates.
Activities Included:
Welcome dinner
Day 2 : The Ultimate Tour Of Athens And The Acropolis
Location: Athens
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Brown Spices
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel you’ll spend this morning being led around the city by a local expert on a private guided tour of Athens. We will, of course, visit the iconic Acropolis and its most famous structure, the Parthenon, as well as the Ancient Agora of Athens. However, you’ll also wander down magical little alleyways, discover the old neighbourhood of Anafiotika and browse locally produced goods in a food market and Monastiraki flea market. There’s a lot to see in this city and it’s a pretty long tour, so after finishing mid-afternoon we’ll leave the rest of the day open for you to explore at your own pace.
Activities Included:
Guided walking tour of Athens
Day 3 : Set Sail For Naxos!
Location: Naxos
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Argo Boutique Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today it’s time to actually set sail on our island-hopping adventure, so we’ll be grabbing an early breakfast before shooting off to the port. From here a ferry will take us to the magical island of Naxos. Despite being the largest isle in the Cyclades, and one of the most beautiful in all of Greece, this little Mediterranean gem remains largely in the shadow of other traditional tourist favourites. This gives it a slightly more laid-back vibe, representative of the Greek way of life, but with just as much natural splendour as anywhere else in Greece. On arrival mid-afternoon we’ll check into our hotel in the city of Naxos, leaving you to spend the rest of the day getting a feel for its charming cobbled streets and gorgeous surrounding beaches.
Activities Included:
Ferry to Naxos
Day 4 : Journey Through The Beating Heart Of Naxos On A Food And Village Tour
Location: Naxos
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Argo Boutique Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we embark on an enlightening tour across the island, leaving the guidebooks behind and following instead our expert Local Insider, who’ll whisk you across the mountains and from village to village on an off the beaten path journey through the authentic heart of Naxos. This is your chance to discover the beautiful little moments, places and people that make up daily life on the island. You’ll meet locals, taste their delicious culinary treats, learn about their cultural quirks and witness the splendid natural beauty that surrounds them. When we wrap the tour up mid-afternoon you’ll have had a priceless insight into this magical island, which leaves you with plenty to reflect on for the remainder of the day, so we recommend hitting the beach!
Activities Included:
Villages of Naxos tour (lunch included)
Day 5 : Discover Hidden Beaches And Crystalline Waters On A Cruise Around Paros
Location: Naxos
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Argo Boutique Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we’ll hop onto a catamaran to take a guided cruise to nearby Paros. This gorgeous little island is famed for its fabulous beaches and, in Greek antiquity, for producing high-quality white marble, which was even used to sculpt Venus de Milo herself. You’ll explore the turquoise shimmer of the Blue Lagoon (weather permitting), go snorkelling in crystal clear waters and swimming off some of the island’s finest, and most under-explored, beaches. The tour includes a delicious lunch onboard the catamaran, and we’ll return to Naxos early in the evening.
Activities Included:
Boat trip to Paros (lunch included)
Day 6 : Set Sail To Santorini!
Location: Fira
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Nissos Thira
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we hop back on the ferry to the final destination of our trip, and perhaps the most sumptuously gorgeous island in all of Greece, Santorini. Upon arrival mid-afternoon our Local Insider will take you on an orientation walk of Fira, the island’s capital. Marvel at the majesty of those iconic whitewashed buildings before spending the rest of the day at your own leisure.
Activities Included:
Ferry to Santorini
Orientation walk of Fira
Day 7 : Settle Down For A Picnic With The Iconic Santorini Sunset
Location: Fira
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Nissos Thira
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast this morning you’ll have more time to yourself – we recommend a scenic coastal walk or perhaps some chill time on the beach. Later on you’ll regroup with our Local Insider to head out on a tour of some of Santorini’s most spectacular viewpoints. We’ll walk to the first organic blackcurrant vineyard in Santorini, spotting local herbs such as caper and thyme and, season depending, picking some to taste. The visit ends with an infused olive oil tasting and a gift bottle paired with herbs from the farm. The evening then culminates with a stunning evening picnic looking out across the island and the Aegean Sea – the perfect way to enjoy Santorini’s world-famous sunset, one of the great sights on Earth.
Activities Included:
Sunset picnic experience
Day 8 : Return To Athens
Location: Athens
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Brown Spices
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
It’s an early breakfast again this morning as we hop back on the ferry to return to the mainland. We should check-in to our hotel in Athens at around 3pm, so you’ll have some time to tick off any remaining bucket-list sights in the capital, or perhaps buy a souvenir or two in the market, before regrouping for a farewell dinner at an authentic local Athenian restaurant.
Activities Included:
Ferry to Athens
Farewell dinner
Day 9 : Time To Say Goodbye!
Location: Athens
Meals Included: Breakfast
After one final breakfast at our hotel, it’s time to part ways and mark the end of your Greek island-hopping experience with Culture Trip. You’ll have a suitcase full of memories to take home with you, but if you don’t want to head straight back to the airport, why not continue your Mediterranean adventures someplace else?
What's Included
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Local Insider
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Accommodation
Eight nights boutique hotel accommodation
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Meals described in the itinerary
Eight breakfasts, two lunches and two dinners
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Private and local transport
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Ferry travel between Athens, Naxos and Santorini
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Guided walking tour of Athens
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Villages of Naxos tour
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Boat trip to Paros
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Orientation walk of Fira
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Santorini sunset picnic experience
What's Not Included
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International flights
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Visas (if required)
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Optional activities
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Insurance
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Resort Taxes (Where applicable)
Accommodation
Brown Spices
This trendy, modern boutique hotel has become the place to stay in Athens. Found right in the heart of one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the city, Psyrri, you’ll be within walking distance of street art masterpieces, incredible Greek food and the city’s best nightlife. The hotel itself has an stylish industrial chic look, paired with multiple restaurants, an in-house spa and a gorgeous rooftop pool.
Argo Boutique Hotel
This family-run boutique hotel is in the city of Naxos, and has been welcoming guests since the ‘80s. Its most recent renovation in 2020 has turned it one of the most stylish hotels on the island, with a gorgeous room design gently inspired by the ocean. The Greek breakfasts here are lavish, as are the cocktails in both hotel bars, and the outdoor pool and in-house spa. The best part? You’ll only be a few hundred metres from the crystalline waters of Saint George beach.
Nissos Thira
Are you staying in Santorini if your hotel isn’t whitewashed? We think not, so this hotel in the capital, Fira, is a classic example of the serenity of Santorini building design. The interiors are super fresh, light and airy, with rooms exuding tranquility from the moment you step in and drop your bags. The pool area, meanwhile, is the real oasis of calm that somehow sits just moments away from the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Please note that, while unlikely, the accommodation indicated may be subject to change (see T&C’s). On a rare occasion, alternative arrangements may be necessary – this may be due to a lack of availability at our preferred accommodation, or other reasons outside our control. We’ll do everything we can to prevent this from happening; however, in cases where it is unavoidable, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Check out our Q&As
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How much money should I bring?
This will depend on how long your trip is, your destination and how much you intend to spend on personal expenses and any meals that aren’t included. It is a good idea to check out the cost of a local lunch and dinner in your destination before you travel.
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Do I need to buy travel insurance?
Yes - all travellers must have travel insurance before they join one of our trips. You are strongly advised to take out your policy at the time of booking to protect your holiday payments in the event of cancellation.
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Do I need to tip?
Tips are not included in the price of your trip but are entirely optional and at your discretion.
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Will there always be a guide on the trip?
Absolutely yes. We pride ourselves on our expert Local Insiders - they are an integral part of what makes our trips so special. Your Local Insider will accompany you throughout the trip and is there to help and assist in any way possible as well as ensure everything works to time.
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Are flights / transport to the destination included?
No - our travellers come from all over the world so flights and / or transport to the start destination are not included.
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What is not included in the trip?
We don’t include the following in our trips: insurance (however you must have insurance to travel on one of our trips), flights, tips for local guides, optional activities and other meals and services not mentioned in your itinerary.
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When will I know if my trip is guaranteed?
We usually wait until we have a few travellers booked on a trip before we guarantee it will run. The latest we will guarantee a trip is 60 days ahead of departure, often it will be long before.
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Why should I travel with Culture Trip?
We know the world's best bits – our award-winning content proves it. Now we’re using that expertise to bring you curated trips that combine thoughtful planning with authentic experiences and hand-picked accommodation. Led by Local Insiders, our trips bring together small groups of curious travellers who embrace the value of shared experiences, cultural immersion and travel that never feels rushed.
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What happens if I am travelling on my own?
Most accommodations on our trips are reserved on a twin share basis. Therefore, if you are travelling on your own you will be sharing a room with another Culture Trip traveller of the same sex. However, most of the time it is possible to pay a supplement for your own room. Please ask your Travel Expert for more information.
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How many meals are included?
Breakfast is included daily and then depending on your itinerary, some lunches and dinners. This is clearly indicated in the trip details or ask your Travel Expert to confirm.
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What happens if I need to amend or cancel my booking?
You can change the date of your tour up to 60 days prior to departure and cancel at any time, although cancellation conditions may apply.
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Do I need any vaccinations?
As a tour operator we are unable to give medical advice, however we suggest you contact your doctor, a professional medical travel clinic or check out the World Health Organisation website for more details.
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What kind of luggage should I bring?
It depends on the type of trip you have booked, but we usually recommend a soft sided bag or case as they are easier to handle on a trip.
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How fit do I need to be to take one of your trips?
We offer a variety of different trips, most of which do not require a specific level of fitness. Some of our trips are more active, but we include details on each specific trip information page. If you are unsure please don’t hesitate to ask one of our Travel Experts.
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What is the group size?
Our maximum group size is 18, although our average group size is 10-12 people. Group travel is a great way to meet other people, and you will have the safety of travelling with a group, but you can also decide how much time you want to spend by yourself.
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Is there any age limit on the Trips?
You must be 25 or over to travel on our trips, however there is no upper age limit. You just need a sense of adventure.
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Can I book extra nights accommodation before or after my trip?
Yes, call or email one of our Travel Experts who will be able to add accommodation to your booking.
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Can I travel in my own private group?
Yes you can. Our team of Travel Experts can put together a bespoke trip to suit all group sizes in most destinations around the world. Please contact us for more details.
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What visas do I need?
Depending on your passport and your destination, you may need a visa to travel on one of our trips. It is up to you to ensure you have any and all necessary visas before you travel. We recommend you check with a specialist visa agency at least 6 weeks before you travel.
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What kind of transport do you use on your trips?
We use a mix of public and private transport on our trips, but usually a small and comfortable minibus, so we can access more remote destinations that larger groups can’t get to.
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Are airport transfers included?
Your arrival transfer from Athens Airport (ATH) to your hotel is not included. If you would like to add a transfer onto your booking, you can contact our Travel Experts who will be able to assist. If you would prefer to make your own way to the hotel, taxis are available at the airport. The hotel is located 35 kms (21.7 miles) from the airport and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes. Your departure airport transfer from Athens to Athens airport (ATH) is not included. If you would like to add a departure transfer onto your booking, you can contact our Travel Experts who will be able to assist. If you would prefer to make your own way back to the airport, your Local Insider or the hotel reception will be able to arrange a taxi for you.
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I booked but cannot travel anymore. What are the amendments and cancellation options?
We understand plans can change and that’s why we offer flexible booking conditions. You can change or cancel your booking at any time up to 56 days prior to departure and receive a full refund of any funds you have already paid towards your trip.
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Do I have to make full payment at the time of booking?
You do not have to make full payment at the time of booking. We only require a small, fully refundable deposit of $100 to secure your spot on the trip. Full payment is due at the latest 56 days prior to departure.
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Do I have to take part in all the activities? Will there be free time on my trip?
The amount of free time varies per trip. Please enquire with our travel experts to get a proper understanding on the amount of free time on the trips you are interested in. You do not have to take part in all activities but we strongly encourage you to do so! We have carefully crafted each trip to show you the best of every destination, so you’d be missing out! Also taking part in activities is a great way to get to know your travel companions and make new friends. Nothing like a positive and supportive group environment to venture outside of your comfort zone and surprise yourself!
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What is a Local Insider?
We believe there’s no better way to discover a new place and a new culture than by experiencing it through the eyes and experience of a local. That’s why we only work with local guides - whom we name our Local Insiders. They know their region inside out and have a passion for sharing it with travellers. All our Local Insiders have years of experience guiding and speak English. Importantly, they like to travel the way we like it too: away from crowds, tourist traps and queues. Focussing on the true essence of a destination, teaching you all about the local culture and profusely sharing local hidden gems and insights.
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Dates & Availability
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Sunday - Monday
May 26, 2024 - Jun 03, 2024Sunday - Monday
Jul 07, 2024 - Jul 15, 2024Sunday - Monday
Aug 04, 2024 - Aug 12, 2024Sunday - Monday
Sep 01, 2024 - Sep 09, 2024Sunday - Monday
Sep 15, 2024 - Sep 23, 2024Sunday - Monday
Sep 29, 2024 - Oct 07, 2024Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Culture Trip allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 55 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Culture Trip allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform culture trip, 55 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Culture Trip requires a minimum deposit of 100 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 55 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of culture trip charges.
At 54 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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