Journeys: Discover the Greek Islands - 8 Days

Itinerary

• Days 1-0: AthensArrival Day

  Arrive at any time. Please make your own way to the joining hotel.

• Days 2-1: Athens/Mykonos

  Travel by ferry to the island of Mykonos with its iconic windmills and seaside cafes. Here you’ll relax and unwind with an afternoon at the pool, then join your tour leader for a walk through town, revealing those famous windmills, the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, and the lovely Little Venice.

• Days 3-2: Mykonos

  After breakfast, head out on an excursion with an archeologist guide to Delos, an island with recorded history dating back to the early Ionian civilization. Once the religious centre of the Aegean Cyclades, the island now exists as an open-air museum, uninhabited and with no vehicles. According to legend, Latonna gave birth here to Apollo the Greek sun god, and to Artemis, the huntress and goddess of marriage and fertility. On our walk, see the Sacred Harbor and the regal Sacred Way, with imposing stone lions leading to the temples dedicated to Apollo and Artemis. Then visit the museum where artifacts found on the island are housed. Return to Mykonos for a free afternoon.

• Days 4-3: Mykonos/Naxos

  This morning, travel by ferry to the island of Naxos, the largest of the Cycladic islands. Here you’ll immerse yourself in a culinary adventure accompanied by a local expert. Learn the secrets of the Naxian Rosto, a celebrated dish of slow cooked pork infused with fragrant garlic and filled with local graviera cheese, baked in the oven. Then, head out on a walking tour with an expert guide starting at the “Portara” , a marble gateway–remnants of the temple of Apollo dating from the 6th century BC. From ancient Greek ruins to medieval fortresses and modern island life–explore the old town. Stroll through winding alleys, view the 11th-century Cathedral, and see prehistoric Cycladic figurines in the historic Ursuline School.

• Days 5-4: Naxos

  Spend a full day in the countryside and appreciate the true spirit of Naxos, a rich, agricultural hub. Accompanied by a local guide, explore the island’s unique culture walking from village to village, meeting the locals, and tasting traditional flavours along the way. Walk in ancient footsteps through Kouroi, an archeological landmark, witness the watermills of Myloi, sample Kytro liquor at Chalki village, and enjoy the iconic olives and olive oil in Kaloxylos village. On your way back, make a stop at the non-profit Naxos Wildlife Protection organization to learn about their conservation efforts on the island before enjoying a free afternoon.

• Days 6-5: Naxos/Santorini

  Catch a ferry to the postcard-perfect Santorini this morning. Here, you’ll join a local guide for a visit to the Akrotiri Museum and ruins–a Bronze Age settlement destroyed in the Theran eruption sometime in the 16th century BC. The site was buried in volcanic ash, preserving the remains of fine frescos and artifacts, similar to the famed Pompeii. Later, choose some free time to relax or join your tour leader for a walk along a segment of the caldera trail. Along the way view the famous Three Bells of Santorini as well as a top down view of the stone path leading to a panoramic view of the volcano and caldera.

• Days 7-6: Santorini

  Today is free to enjoy the stunning landscapes, beaches and culture of Santorini. Opt to join a sailing excursion which visits local beaches, one of the oldest active volcanoes, and the volcanically formed islands of Palea and Nea Kameni. This evening, join the group for an optional farewell dinner in Oia, famous for its stunning sunset views, and toast the end of your Greek adventure.

• Days 8-7: Santorini

  Depart at any time.