Athens and the Greek Isles: A Tailor-Made Journey

Upon your arrival in Athens, meet your private driver for the transfer to your hotel. After time to relax, enjoy dinner and conversation at the home of a native Athenian. (D) 

Join your private guide this morning for a tour of the temples of the extraordinary Acropolis, built in the 5th century BC for Athena, the patron goddess of the city. Continue to the Acropolis Museum to see artifacts from the site, including 36 panels of the Parthenon’s storied frieze. (B)

Set out by ferry for a day trip to the island of Hydra in the Saronic Gulf. Once a retreat for the rich and famous, Hydra has maintained much of its traditional character because motorized vehicles are not allowed on the island. Explore the cobbled lanes and unique stone architecture of its port town, and stroll past the shops and cafés along the waterfront. Return to Athens for the evening. (B)

Transfer to the port this morning and board the ferry for Milos, a volcanic island in the southwestern Cyclades. On arrival, you’ll be met by a representative and taken to your hotel in the town of Pollonia. You have the remainder of the afternoon to begin to explore Milos or relax on one of its many beaches. (B)

Discover the culture and history of Milos on a private tour of its smaller towns and intriguing catacombs, said to date back to the first century. See the spot where a local farmer discovered the Venus de Milo—now one of the most famous ancient Greek statues—broken and half-buried in a field.  End the tour with time to relax at Sarakiniko, a stunning beach where sinuous white rocks, sculpted by the elements, contrast with the cobalt seas.  (B)

Explore a different side of Milos today on a privately guided geological tour of the island. Visit volcanic fields, unusual red-rock beaches, and the seaside ghost town of an abandoned sulfur mine. Enjoy a free afternoon to relax or explore the island further. (B)

Transfer to the port this morning where you’ll catch a ferry southeast to Santorini. A driver will pick you up and deliver you to your hotel in the town of Oia, perched on the cliffs on the northern edge of the caldera. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon to meander through town and take in the spectacular views. (B) 

Get acquainted with Santorini’s more traditional side on a private tour of the island’s interior. Away from the crowds, you’ll visit small towns where local residents carry on everyday rituals, and stop at a farm for lunch. (B,L)

Take advantage of a free morning to walk the coastal path to the towns at the edge of the caldera. Or simply relax at your hotel’s pool and enjoy the view. In the afternoon, join a small group catamaran cruise around the island, making stops to swim. Watch the legendary Santorini sunset from on deck before returning to Oia for your final evening on Santorini. (B)

Your next ferry ride brings you to the island of Mykonos, where you’ll settle into your hotel in Mykonos Town and have time at leisure this afternoon. In the evening, learn about traditional Mykonian cooking from an island resident during a lively cooking class held in her home. (B,L)

Venture off the Mykonos on an excursion with to the island of Delos, a hub of commerce and culture for the whole of the Mediterranean in ancient times. With your private guide, get an in-depth look at this World Heritage site, said to be the birthplace of the twin gods Artemis and Apollo. Return to Mykonos for a leisurely afternoon to stroll through town, enjoy the beach, or relax at a waterfront café. (B)

A private transfer will take you to the airport today for your departing flight. (B)