Best of Naxos

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Naxos

The largest Cycladic island, Naxos combines long sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters with a beautiful inland featuring lush nature, quaint traditional villages, and historical sites, all with fewer tourists than its Cycladic neighbors. Take it all in on a food tour that will introduce you to the fertile island’s agricultural scene and varied cuisine. Or embark on an adventure hiking along medieval paths past pretty rural churches and monasteries. If you’d rather experience Naxos aquatically, a catamaran sail will bring you to some of its smaller neighboring islands and natural caves perfect for enjoying the wide Aegean seas and skies.

To delve further into island life, kimkim travelers have participated in a cooking class delivered by a longtime resident who can teach you traditional Naxian cooking styles. Alternatively, you can take a historic tour of sites including the ancient Temple of Demeter, the statues of kouros, remarkable Byzantine churches, and the Bazeos and Zevgoli towers. Or follow a guide on a food-themed odyssey introducing you to the production of local kitron liquor and island cheeses whilst you learn about their accompanying history and the area in which they are produced.

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Naxos Essentials

How Many Days to Spend on Naxos

The largest of the Cyclades islands, Naxos, is often paired with a visit to its neighbor Paros and smaller surrounding islands. You can visit in 24 hours (it's a short ferry ride from Santorini, making it a perfect day trip or overnight). To really experience Naxos, however, consider spending up to five days here: you'll be able to tour traditional mountain villages, take in the unspoiled nature of the island's interior, and check out some of the island's beaches, said to rival those in Santorini.

10 Days in Greece - 6 Family-Friendly Itineraries

Greece has a multitude of wonders to attract you and your family for 10 days of adventure. It's one of the sunniest places in the world, so catch some rays as you explore the cultural capital of Athens in the company of storytellers, breathe in the healing airs of Crete on easy hikes and treasure hunts, and watch the stunning sunsets of Santorini from secret spots.

1 Week in Greece - 6 Family-Friendly Itineraries

With a week to spend, you and your family can find plenty of ways to explore Greece. Whether you want to hit the highlights with interactive tours in Athens and Santorini, get into some less-explored parts of the country with a Corinthian canal cruise, or head out on a scavenger hunt through the streets of Crete, there's something waiting for everyone.

2 Weeks in Greece - 6 Family-Friendly Itineraries

Two weeks gives you and your family plenty of time to traverse the nearly 1,000 miles of coastline that Greece has to offer. Whether you're going for a deep dive into the northern Greek mainland, island-hopping through the Cyclades, or getting cultural on Crete or in the Peloponnese, you'll find something that speaks to you.

Best Time of Year to Visit Naxos

Naxos is the largest island in the Cyclades, with some of the best beaches and most beautiful scenery. Nature sets the island apart from the others because of the green landscapes and hills, blending with the ocean colors. From spring to fall, there are a lot of activities taking place, and you can enjoy culture, watersports, festivals, and fantastic food. Every season has its charm, and the summers are highly popular among tourists, while winters are romantic and quiet.

Ultimate Guide to Naxos: The Cyclades in a Nutshell

Naxos is unfairly overlooked by many visitors to the Aegean. It's the largest and most fertile of the Cyclades Islands, and perhaps also its most quintessential, blessed with an abundance of attractions from archaeological treasures to some of the best stretches of white sand beach in Greece. From the main city of Chora to road trip-worthy villages and the glittering southwest coastline, let this guide be your essential handbook for Naxos travel.

Top Cultural Experiences in Greece

Greece is a country of ancient history, refreshing gastronomy, vivid art, and scenic landscapes. All of these characteristics play an essential role in Greek culture. Explore rural villages and learn how the Greek islands functioned before tourism hit. Discover the secrets behind locally sourced cheeses, olive oil, and liqueur, and learn why marble is such a staple throughout the country. Go beyond the beaten path and delve into Athens' unique neighborhoods, Santorini's authentic villages, and the fascinating history of Naxos.

Top Active Experiences in Greece

Greece is an outdoor haven perfect for an active trip. With mountains and river gorges in the north and endless coastline in the south, you'll have your pick of sporty excursions. Whether it's hiking to ancient sites, biking along the coast, or kayaking through the sea, active adventures allow you to experience the country from a unique perspective and get up close with the local culture.

Explore Greece's World-Famous Food Culture

Top Culinary Experiences in Greece

Greek gastronomy is known worldwide as one of the freshest and healthiest cuisines, with its signature Mediterranean diet featured in numerous countries. Learn the secrets behind the country's staples with wine and cheese tastings, city food tours, farm visits, and meals with locals. Take a cooking class or visit a winery and learn about Greece's ancient farming and winemaking techniques. There's a reason why the flavors are so pronounced in Greek gastronomy, and tradition has a lot to do with it!

Discover Greece's Incredible Scenery by Boat

Top Sailing Excursions in Greece

No trip to Greece is complete without enjoying the open sea! With endless coastline, thousands of islands, and warm waters ideal for swimming, you can craft the perfect sailing itinerary to match your interests. Enjoy the quieter islands of the Ionian Sea, or discover the energy and history of the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea. Or, stay close to the mainland and explore the coast of Nafplio, the Peloponnese Peninsula, and the Saronic Gulf. Whatever you choose, a sailing adventure awaits you in Greece!

Explore Greece's Signature Turquoise Water and Scenic Beaches

Top Beach Excursions in Greece

With over 400 blue-flag beaches and endless stretches of sand, pebbles, and turquoise waters, Greece is the perfect place for a sand-and-sea vacation. Although the Greek Islands offer some of the best beaches, even the mainland has its share of swimming hotspots. From the snorkeling haven of Voidokilia to the famous Balos Bay on Crete, every region of the country has a sandy stretch perfect for swimming, relaxing, or enjoying water sports.

Best Things to Do in the Greek Islands

Although most are uninhabited, Greece has over 6,000 islands dotting the waters of the Aegean and Ionian Seas. It's no wonder they attract travelers from all over the world with diverse history, unique culture, sandy beaches, and incredible natural surroundings. The two most popular clusters include the Cyclades Islands in the heart of the Aegean and Greece's southernmost and largest island, Crete. Combining the two constructs an ideal vacation filled with some of the most beautiful coastlines and ancient history in Greece.

Best Things to Do on Naxos

If you're dreaming of the quintessential Greek island with whitewashed architecture, amazing beaches, incredible food and culture, and rich history, then Naxos is for you. Especially if you want to avoid the crowds seen on some of its neighboring islands. The largest Cycladic island is just a hop, skip, and a jump from hotspots like Santorini and Mykonos, but feels a world apart.

The 6 Best Boutique Hotels in Naxos

Much like the island, the Naxos lodgings welcome you into the Cycladic lifestyle. Whether you want to stay close to town or a bit farther out on Agios Prokopios beach, you'll find brushed white architecture and the influence of the island's agricultural character. Don't be surprised if you happen to hear mooing in the distance alongside the sound of the waves.

Naxos Itineraries

Delightful Athens & Naxos - 6 Days

Experience captivating Athens and a lesser-known Cycladic island with this 6-day itinerary. After getting your first taste of Greece in the capital city, you'll head to Naxos to experience the beaches, history, villages, and culture of the largest Cycladic isle.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 6 Days

Get a glimpse of multiple angles of Greece on this six-day family trip. You'll begin with a mythology tour of the Acropolis, then sail to the Cyclades to visit Naxos. This island has a rich agricultural and archaeological legacy that you can explore on horseback or simply via wandering through its castle district, plus plenty of stunning beaches that kids and adults will love.

Relax on a holiday on Oia, a Santorini Greek island

Sun and Sea in Athens, Naxos & Santorini- 11 Days

Soak up the sunshine on this 11-day luxury tour of Greece, Naxos, and Santorini. Enjoy a guided tour of Athens' ancient Acropolis, an escorted drive of the coastline, and a sunset over Cape Sounio. On Naxos, take lessons to windsurf, sail to the Small Cyclades, and catch a high-speed ferry to Santorini for a catamaran cruise over pristine waters to swim, snorkel, and lie out on the island's famous volcanic beaches.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 5 Days

See Athens and the Cycladic island of Naxos with this five-day itinerary. Start by taking your whole family up to the Acropolis to experience the myths of Classical Greece up close, then head down to the island of Naxos to explore its former Venetian castle district and lounge on the many beaches.

Delightful Naxos and Mainland Greece - 8 Days

Experience captivating Athens and highlights of the nearby Peloponnese Peninsula and Cycladic Islands with this week-long itinerary. After getting your first taste of Greece in the capital city, you'll take a day trip to legendary Mycenae and charming Nafplio. Then, head to Naxos to experience the beaches, history, villages, and culture of the largest Cycladic isle.

Athens & Naxos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Travelers to Greece typically plan a trip for 9 to 12 days when combining both Athens and Naxos with Santorini and Mykonos. For travelers wanting to visit Athens and Naxos exclusively, plan 5 to 8 days for a well-paced trip. Check out our favorite Athens and Naxos trips below.

City to Cyclades for Families: Athens and Naxos - 7 Days

Enjoy a mini Greek experience with even the mini members of your family on this seven-day itinerary for families with school-age children. With just one week, you'll start in Athens to hit the mythology highlights, including the Acropolis and its famous Parthenon, with plenty of games and stories included. Then jet off to Naxos, the largest island in the Cyclades, to take in the beaches and inland villages via biking, cooking, and more.

Paros & Naxos - 8 Days

Many travelers flock to Santorini and Mykonos, but during this trip, you'll visit two spectacular yet less-traveled islands in the Cyclades chain. Start off in Paros, where golden sand beaches and charming villages are yours to explore. Then hop a ferry to neighboring Naxos for a bustling Chora (main town), beautiful whitewashed villages clinging to mountainsides, and countryside filled with churches, archaeological sites, and local distilleries.

Off the Beaten Path in the Cyclades: Paros & Naxos - 8 Days

The stunning Cyclades are a group of Greek islands famous for their unique architecture, cosmopolitan nightlife, impressive history, and rocky landscapes. You'll start in Paros, where golden sand beaches and charming villages are yours to explore. Then hop a ferry to neighboring Naxos for a tour of Chora, beautiful whitewashed villages, and countryside filled with churches, archaeological sites, and local distilleries.

Paros & Naxos Family Adventure - 8 Days

Visit the world-renowned sea sports paradise of Paros and Naxos islands for 8 days of oceanside hikes, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. And when you're not taking on all the active adventures the islands have to offer? Explore the unique local architecture, delectable cuisine, cosmopolitan nightlife, and impressive archaeological sites.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 8 Days

Legend has it that Dionysus was born on the island of Naxos, so manage a revel of your own with this eight-day itinerary to lesser-known yet amazing isles. From your starting point in Athens, you'll first visit petite Tinos for a taste of Cycladic cooking, then onward to Naxos to spin past its sunny beaches before you return to the city.

Active Cyclades: Naxos & Ios - 8 Days

Adventure awaits on this thrilling itinerary through the Cyclades. Spend just over a week exploring Naxos and Ios by hiking through the hills, diving in the sea, and paddling over the Aegean waves to secluded beaches. Top it all off with an exciting bike ride in and around Athens, where you'll see all the sights.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 8 Days

Bring your whole brood to meet the most famous residents of Mykonos—its pelicans—on this eight-day itinerary. You'll start off with a guided mythology tour of Athens, then head to Mykonos to make some animal friends with beach time and a traditional farm visit. Then head to Naxos, where you'll see the island from horseback and top it off with one last day of lounging before you depart.

Looking down at the Old Town in Naxos from the castle

Culture & Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring Athens and some of the highlights of the Cyclades with this itinerary. You'll start atop the Acropolis before getting down into the streets of Athens for a morning bike tour, then head over to the Cycladic islands of Naxos and Santorini. Lounge on the beaches, sample some highlights of island cuisine, and hike alongside the famous caldera before you return to Athens.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 12 Days

The standout Cyclades island chain isn't just for honeymooners—take the entire family with this itinerary. You'll start in Mykonos, where you can dodge the jetsetters with quiet beaches and a farm visit. Then go on to Naxos and Santorini. See into ancient history, experience scenic shores, and dive into the sea to fill photo albums you'll enjoy for years to come.

Culture & Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 15 Days

Get acquainted with some Greek highlights both large and small on this 15-day itinerary. Start off in Athens atop the Acropolis and wheeling through the city streets. Then sail down to the Cyclades, starting with sun, sailing, and snacking on Naxos and following it up with exploration of both the history and landscape of Santorini before you return to Athens.

Relaxed Athens, Santorini, Naxos & Mykonos - 10 Days

Take the coast of the Cyclades from guidebook covers straight to your own social media feed with this laid-back 10-day Greek getaway. These famous islands have captured travelers' imaginations for centuries, and now it's your turn to explore via boat, bike, and more. Along the way, you'll cruise around Santorini by catamaran, cycle between idyllic beaches in Naxos, and sit down to an evening of dinner and stories on a Mykonos farm.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 10 Days

Walk hand in hand through the brightly colored doors of the Cyclades with this 10-day family itinerary. After an Athenian mythology tour, you'll sail to the islands for a slew of activities, with farm dinners, bike rides, horseback tours, and a cruise through the caldera on wooden ship all on the agenda.

Active Cyclades: Tinos, Naxos & Ios - 10 Days

Explore some of the lesser-known islands of the Cyclades on this jam-packed adventure. Over a week and a half, you'll hike through the hills of Tinos, go scuba diving off Naxos, and paddle to secluded beaches on Ios. End your journey with a thrilling bike ride around historical and modern Athens.

Athens, Naxos, & Santorini: Best Itinerary Ideas

Nine to 12 days is the most popular trip length for Greece travelers interested in visiting Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, especially when also including Mykonos. If you're only headed to Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 8 to 10 days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as 5 to 7 days. For the best itineraries including Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, keep reading below.

The hills are alive with the sound of Naxos

Family Highlights of Greece: Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 10 Days

Take ten days to share some of Greek's most popular spots with your whole family on this itinerary. You'll start in Athens with some park strolls and storytelling atop the Acropolis. Then head to the Cyclades islands for some beach time and cooking classes in Naxos, followed by guided strolls to some of the best views Santorini has to offer.

Active Cyclades: Naxos & Ios - 7 Days

This week-long itinerary through the Cyclades will take you to some of the most beautiful sites on Naxos and Ios. In between wandering the lanes of the charming main towns and lounging on the beaches, you'll trek through the hills to ancient sites and paddle over Aegean waves on a canoe safari. Back in Athens, take to the streets on a bike tour of sights both old and new to wrap up your Greek adventure.

Relaxed Athens, Santorini, Naxos & Mykonos - 13 Days

As the world's leading producer of sea sponges, Greece knows something about lounging by the shore. Channel your inner sponge and soak up the Cycladic sun on this 13-day itinerary. Get a taste of the city vibes in Athens before you head to the islands, where a catamaran cruise, cooking classes, and the calming waves will help you absorb every last moment.

Culture & Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 9 Days

Whether you're windsurfing, hiking, or sea kayaking, this nine-day itinerary will take you to some of the highlights of Athens and the islands. Start off high atop the Acropolis, then set sail for bustling Naxos, one of the largest islands in the Cyclades, where you can take advantage of one of the best windsurfing spots in the region. Then head to Santorini to sea kayak and hike around the island's famed caldera.

Athens, Naxos, & Ios: Best Itinerary Ideas

Ten to 14 days is the most popular trip length for travelers interested in visiting Athens, Naxos, and Ios, especially when also including Tinos and Syros in the itinerary. If you're only headed to Athens, Naxos, and Ios, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 7 to 8 days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as 5 or 6 days. Check out our favorite Athens, Naxos, and Ios trips below.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 7 Days

Recline for a week in the less crowded parts of the sunny Cyclades with this seven-day itinerary. You'll start and end in Athens, visiting Tinos and Naxos in between. Tinos is home to time-honored basket-weaving methods and marble quarries that will take you back to the Classical era, while neighboring Naxos boasts an extensive agricultural scene and Venetian castle district ready to be wandered.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 7 Days

Spend seven days with the sun and sand on this family-focused itinerary. Start off with a mythology tour through the Acropolis, then set sail for Mykonos where you can feel the surf on your feet and taste traditional flavors with a farm dinner. You'll end in Naxos, seeing the island from horseback before you sneak in one more day on the beach.

Past and Present in Athens, Tinos & Naxos - 7 Days

Cover more than 3,000 years in just seven days with this educational itinerary. You'll learn about the myths of the Acropolis along with the agriculture of Naxos and artisans of Tinos as you sweep past the centuries in the city of Athens and Cyclades island chain.

Athens, Naxos, & Mykonos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Nine to 12 days is the most popular trip length for travelers interested in visiting Athens, Naxos, and Mykonos, especially when also including Santorini. For travelers wanting to visit Athens, Naxos, and Mykonos exclusively, plan 7 to 8 days for a well-paced trip. For the best itineraries including Athens, Naxos, and Mykonos, keep reading below.

Athens, Naxos, & Tinos: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 7 to 8 days is the perfect amount of time for a Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, and Tinos. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as 6 days. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Mykonos, Ios, or Chania. Keep reading for more inspiring Athens, Naxos, and Tinos itineraries.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 13 Days

Explore the islands across history and generations with this 13-day family itinerary. After a mythology tour of the Acropolis, you'll venture down to Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini to explore via a different transportation method for every island, whether it's a traditional wooden boat, bike, or even donkey leading you on your journey.

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 7 Days

Spend a week immersed in the tasty traditions of Greece with this seven-day itinerary. Enjoy a welcome dinner in Athens and venture out to a functioning olive grove, then ferry over to Tinos for a culinary workshop. Get back on board for a stop in Naxos with samples of island agriculture before your return to Athens.

Active Cyclades: Tinos, Naxos & Ios - 13 Days

Get your adrenaline pumping on this two-week adventure through the Cyclades. You'll hike, climb, paddle, and bike around some of the chain's lesser-known islands. Tackle Tinos' rugged Exomvourgo mountain, swim with the fish on a scuba diving excursion in Naxos, and enjoy a canoeing safari around Ios' pristine Mylopotas bay, and more!

Culture & Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 13 Days

See part of the range of Greek attractions both big and small with this 13-day itinerary. Start in Athens with a guided tour of the Acropolis and its museum, followed by an urban bike ride to get up close with the city. Then sail to the Cyclades, beginning in Naxos, where you can explore neighboring islands and enchanting villages. Continue in Santorini, unwinding with beach time, wine tasting, and a scenic hike along the rim of the caldera before you return to Athens.

Explore the flavors and history of Greece on this luxury tour

Luxury Greek Gastronomy Tour: Athens, Santorini & Naxos - 7 Days

Take a deep dive into the cuisine and culture of Greece with this weeklong luxury itinerary. Start in Athens, where you'll dine on authentic Mediterranean dishes against the backdrop of the Acropolis. Then, you're off to Santorini for a tour of the island's most exclusive vineyards and a sunset catamaran cruise. Hop over to Naxos to sample local liqueurs and learn about cheesemaking at a working farm, and finish back on the Athenian Riviera with a scenic drive and a stroll to the famed Temple of Poseidon.

Relaxed Athens, Santorini, Naxos & Mykonos - 14 Days

Head to Greece for 14 days of relaxation. Start with a culinary tour and winery day trip on the mainland before chilling island-style in the Cycladic Islands. Cruise through the caldera of Santorini, prepare a typical Greek meal on Naxos, and recline on sandy beaches throughout.

Active Cyclades: Tinos, Naxos & Ios - 14 Days

Get off the beaten path while hopping between lesser-known Greek islands on this two-week tour. Catch a wave at Kolymbithra beach, dive in Naxos, or cruise the waves of the Aegean—adventure awaits around this itinerary's every turn.

Spend time in Mykonos with the whole family

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 14 Days

Take two weeks for everyone to see the islands with this family-focused itinerary. After a mythology tour of Athens, you'll ferry out to Mykonos to take in everything from the archaeological site at Delos to a traditional farm dinner. Naxos is up next, with bikes and horses to transport you through its fields and beaches, followed by Santorini, where you'll end your trip with a cruise through the volcanic caldera.

Athens and the Cyclades for Families: Athens, Tinos, Naxos & Santorini - 14 Days

The whitewashed architecture of the Cyclades is one of the most classic Greek images. Spend two weeks amid this island chain's charms with this family-friendly itinerary full of hands-on activities for school-aged children. You'll start off with games and stories in Athens, then head to Tinos to learn about the art of marble sculpting. From there, you'll visit the villages and beaches of Naxos before you wrap up your trip along the rim of Santorini's famous caldera.

Greek History & Gourmet Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Amorgos - 14 Days

Food and wine enthusiasts — especially those looking to get off the beaten path a bit — will love this two-week itinerary around Athens and a pair of Greek islands. The trip starts with a few days in Athens, where you'll get oriented in Greek history and mythology. Then it's off to the island of Naxos, where you'll sample local sweets and visit a family-run olive oil farm. You'll also enjoy a day of sailing on the Aegean Sea before continuing to the lesser-visited island of Amorgos for several days of eating, drinking, and sunbathing. Learn how to prepare Greek food during a cooking class, sip wine with a sunset view, and pick up some bottles of locally produced olive oil to take home with you. You'll head back to Athens for one last Greek meal before the trip comes to an end.

Dine overlooking the South Aegean on Naxos island (photo courtesy of 18 Grapes Hotel Naxos)

Luxury Greek Gastronomy Tour: Athens, Nafplio, Santorini & Naxos - 14 Days

See and taste the best of Greece and its islands on this fun-filled two-week luxury tour, starting in Athens for a private tour of the Acropolis and a Greek wine tasting. From here, you're off to historic Nafplio for a decadent dinner with a personal chef. Then it's time to hop on a ferry to Santorini and then Naxos for sailing and catamaran cruises and visits to local farms known for cheesemaking and wine. Finish back in t with a scenic drive along the Athenian Riviera to finish the adventure.

Active Cyclades: Tinos, Naxos & Ios - 11 Days

Active travelers will love this 11-day itinerary through the Cycladic Islands. Experience some of the lesser-known islands in this chain—Tinos, Naxos, and Ios—after a fun welcome dinner on the mainland. Scuba dive in Naxos, hike the marble route on Tinos, and more: the adventures in this Greek itinerary won't disappoint.

Relaxed Athens, Santorini, Naxos & Mykonos - 11 Days

Greece has an average of 250 sunny days a year, so enjoy 11 of them with this island itinerary. Go from the street food stalls of Athens to the white clifftop buildings of Santorini. Venture over to Naxos for some cooking and cycling, then find some food of your own at a farm on Mykonos before you return to watch the sunset over Athens.

Culture & Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 11 Days

This 11-day itinerary takes you through some of Greece's top spots, starting with the Acropolis in Athens. Get better-acquainted with the city from atop the hill before you board the ferry to the Cyclades. Hike through the island's history and spend some time enjoying the sun in Naxos, then continue onto Santorini, where you'll sea kayak and stroll along the famous caldera.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 11 Days

Legend says the island of Mykonos was named after Apollo's grandson. Work on solidifying your family's Greek legacy with this 11-day island itinerary. You'll start off in Athens with stories on the Acropolis, followed by a boat trip to Mykonos for time on both water and land. Then head to Naxos and Santorini for more beach and boat time before your departure.

Relaxed Athens, Santorini, Naxos & Mykonos - 8 Days

Escape the troubles of the world with eight days in the Cyclades. You'll arrive in Athens, then head to the islands to explore famous Mykonos and Santorini as well as lesser-known but spectacular Naxos. Enjoy your Greek vacation filled with sun, sailing, and sampling, with cooking classes and traditional dinners accompanying your days of blissful idleness.

Culture & Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 8 Days

Visit some of the high points of Athens and the Cyclades with this eight-day itinerary. You'll start with a tour of the Acropolis and its neighboring museum, then journey off to Naxos, one of the largest islands in the Cycladic chain, for a hike through the island's past and present. Finish your trip in stunning Santorini, where you'll sea kayak and see island's classic caldera.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 15 Days

The Cyclades aren't just for honeymooners; you can take the whole family on this 15-day trip through some of Greece's most famous islands. After your arrival in Athens, you'll set sail to Mykonos to cruise around the beaches and out to the historic site at Delos. Busy Naxos is up next with biking, horseback riding, and even more beaches before you go over to Santorini to experience the caldera from all sides.

Past and Present in Athens, Tinos, Mykonos & Naxos - 8 Days

Pack comfortable shoes for this eight-day itinerary—you'll be walking through Greek history from Athens through some of the best Cycladic islands. Take a mythology tour of Athena's Parthenon and the Delos of Artemis and Apollo, along with a marble quarry hike, and exploration of island agriculture, and more.

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 8 Days

The taverna has been a cornerstone of Greek life throughout history—artifacts even suggest there was once a taverna at the Acropolis itself. Find out why and eat your way through this eight-day itinerary, sharing your table with olive harvesters, local chefs, Mykonian farmers, and more as you ferry between some of the best islands in the Cyclades.

Relaxed Athens, Santorini, Naxos & Mykonos - 12 Days

Greece has roughly 2,000 islands within its borders, but with 12 days to travel, you'll focus on these three favorites after a tour through the capital's food scene. See the star Santorini caldera, then sail to Naxos to take a spin around the beaches. Then it's off to Mykonos for a farm tour and more beach time before you head back to Athens.

A coastal hike with views of the Aegean Sea

Active Cyclades Adventure - 12 Days

Famous for their beautiful beaches, the Cyclades Islands aren't just for lounging. Hike, bike, and sail around whitewashed fishing villages and over rocky landscapes on this 12-day active tour. Start off in Paros with a cooking class and scenic horseback ride before cycling in Naxos and a sunset hike in Santorini. You'll explore more of the Aegean Sea before bidding farewell to Greece with a well-deserved wine toast.

End your 12-day tour savoring the local produce and wines of Santorini

Greek Food & Wine Discovery Tour: Athens, the Peloponnese, Naxos & Santorini - 12 Days

Combine ancient sights and delicious Greek cuisine on this 12-day gastronomy-focused tour of the Aegean. You'll start in the capital with dinner overlooking the Acropolis before experiencing the best of Peloponnese produce with trips to wineries, olive groves and a hands-on cooking class. Hop over to the charming whitewashed houses of the Cyclades, where Naxian cuisine and the perfect beach await. Then finish in elegant Santorini with a sunset catamaran cruise.

Active Cyclades: Tinos, Naxos & Ios - 12 Days

Hike, bike, and paddle your way around the Cyclades with this exciting twelve day itinerary. You'll trek up a rocky mountain on Tinos, dive into the Aegean on a scuba excursion in Naxos, and canoe around the bay on Ios. Top off your adventure in Athens with a farewell bike tour of all the sights.

Culture & Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 12 Days

See some of Greece's popular high points and hidden secrets with this itinerary. Start out in Athens, where you'll tour the Acropolis and visit the resort town of Vouliagmeni before you head out to the Cyclades. Your island journey includes Naxos, home to the marble village and a sailboat that will take you out to the neighboring Small Cyclades, followed by Santorini, where you'll explore the iconic caldera and the rest of the island before you return to Athens.

Boat in the Aegean Sea off the coast of Santorini

Adventure & Relaxation in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 12 Days

This 12-day adventure, focused around three of Greece's top destinations, offers an enticing mix of cultural sightseeing, outdoor adventure, and pure relaxation. You'll spend the first few days in Athens, visiting the Acropolis, tasting Greek delicacies on a food tour, and side-tripping to nearby islands by boat. Then you'll move on to Naxos, participating in another guided food tour, sightseeing in the old town, and sailing to beautiful beaches on the islands of Paros and Antiparos. Finish the itinerary on the gorgeous island of Santorini, where you'll kayak around sea caves, relax on the famous Red Beach, and end the trip with a sunset catamaran tour around the coastline.

Relaxed Athens, Santorini, Naxos & Mykonos - 9 Days

Spend nine days getting your full nine hours of sleep and still taking in some of the best the Cyclades have to offer on this itinerary. Your mornings have plenty of time for lounging on the shore or strolling through the streets of Santorini, Naxos, and Mykonos. In the afternoons, you'll set off for sunset cruises, cooking classes, and freshly cut produce-filled dinners.

Cultural Cyclades - 13 Days

This cultural tour will take you through some of the Cyclades' top spots, with four islands on your itinerary. Go from glitzy boutiques to working farms as you explore Mykonos, then hop to Naxos to learn how to cook like an islander. You'll see the winding alleys of Ios and the caldera sunsets of Santorini, with plenty of Classical history, cliffside views, and crystal waters along the way.

Luxury Tour of Athens and the Cyclades - 12 Days

This luxury tour of Greece starts in the bustling capital of Athens, discovering its incredible architecture and charming neighborhoods, followed by the exploration of the islands of Mykonos, Naxos, and Santorini. Live the posh life as you relax at world-renowned beach clubs, enjoy sunset cruises, tour villages around the islands, and discover the taste of Greece with food tours and wine tastings. Score incredible views of the islands and the Aegean Sea with hikes, trips to hot springs, and sunsets from your own private pool.

Athens, Naxos, Santorini, & Mykonos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 9 to 12 days is perfect for a well-paced Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Mykonos. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in 7 or 8 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop, or explore more of the country—some of our favorite itinerary extensions include Chania, Ios, or Nafpaktos. Get inspired with our Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Mykonos trip ideas below.

Gastronomy and Culture of the Cyclades - 12 Days

Discover Greece's distinct culture and gastronomy, starting in Athens with a private tour of the Acropolis and a hands-on cooking class, followed by a transition to some of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades. Begin in Syros for food tours and explorations of medieval cities, then head to the hidden gem of Tinos for some of Greece's best cuisine, plus a visit to marble villages, an art workshop, and an afternoon swimming in the Aegean Sea. End your trip in Naxos where you'll discover ancient sites, historic streets, medieval monasteries, and, of course, delicious, locally-sourced cuisines, the pride of the Greek Islands.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 9 Days

Take nine days to find tranquility in some of the lesser-known but no less soothing Cyclades with this itinerary. You'll start and end in Athens, ferrying out to Tinos, Naxos, and Ios for a different culinary experience on every island under the Aegean sun.

Active Cyclades: Tinos, Naxos & Ios - 9 Days

Spend 9 days touring some of the best (and least crowded) islands in the Cyclades. Over the week, hike the Tinos marble route, canoe across Mylopotas Bay, and take a sunset bike ride around Athens. Whether you're atop the rocky hills of Tinos or paddling over the waves of the Aegean, adventure awaits during your active week in Greece.

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos, and Crete - 17 Days

From Athens to Crete, you'll do more than hang out beachside on the 17-day version of this itinerary. Watch the sunset over the Temple of Poseidon, hike the lunar landscape of Volax, bike past the beaches of Naxos, and trek the Samaria Gorge in the Cretan White Mountains. With opportunities to snorkel, ride horses, and other outdoor activities throughout, your trip will end with a culinary excursion in the traditional village of Vamos.

Past & Present in Athens, Tinos, Mykonos & Naxos - 9 Days

Travel through time with a nine-day trip into Classical Greece. Hear the myths of the Acropolis in Athens before heading to the islands of Naxos, Mykonos, and Tinos, home to mythological sites, local delicacies, and beautiful villages.

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos, and Crete - 9 Days

Nine days is plenty of time to work up a sweat with this energetic itinerary. Enjoy a welcome dinner in Athens before you ferry to the Cyclades, stopping in Tinos and Naxos for hiking and biking along the blue shores. Then onward to Crete and the famous Samaria Gorge before you return to Athens for a well-deserved sunset break.

Family Adventures in Athens and the Cyclades - 9 Days

Go from the top of the Acropolis down to the sea with this nine-day itinerary customized to suit every member of your family. Whether you're listening to the retellings of famous legends, riding a horse past the waves, or sailing through Santorini's caldera, the sights and sounds will keep your party satisfied.

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 13 Days

The best way to show love is through food, so let Greece show you how much it loves you with this 13-day culinary itinerary. Whether it's with fresh goat cheese, Agiorgitiko wine, or olives, you'll be wooed by hands-on sampling tours, cooking classes, and at-home meals from Athens through the Cycladic islands.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 13 Days

White domed buildings, blue seas, freshly baked baklava, and more await on this 13-day itinerary. You'll hit up all the hallmarks of the Cyclades but beat the crowds with stops in Syros, Tinos, Naxos, and Ios. Start with a food tour in Athens to fuel up before you ferry out to tour the mansions of Syros, bike past the beaches of Naxos, and more.

See the early 20th-century neo-Classical Academy of Athens

Athens, Naxos, Mykonos & Tinos: Best Itinerary Ideas

Nine to 12 days are excellent for a Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, Mykonos, and Tinos. It's possible to hit the highlights in six to eight days if you don't mind a fast-paced route. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Santorini or Nafplio. Read on for more inspiring Athens, Naxos, Mykonos, and Tinos itineraries.

The olive tree prizewinner in the wild is the base for much of Greek cuisine

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 9 Days

Discover Greece's cuisine through its culinary heritage of the Cyclades and Peloponnese on this nine-day tour. Athena won over the citizens of Athens by providing them with an olive tree—you'll see all the ways in which the mighty olive continues to dominate Greek culture. Visit a working olive grove, learn to put olive-based ingredients into practice in a Tinian cooking class, and sample more local specialties at a farmhouse dinner.

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos, and Crete - 13 Days

It would take about 108 hours to swim from Athens to Chania, but since you only have 13 days, this itinerary will let you take the ferry instead. You'll stop at the islands of Tinos and Naxos along the way, with plenty of time to hike, bike, and climb along the way.

The Cyclades are the quintessential Greek isles

Taste of the Cyclades and Crete - 14 Days

The glittering Cyclades span hundreds of miles, with centuries of history under their belt. The two-week version of this itinerary starts in glamorous Mykonos before a stop in Naxos for beach time and a cooking class. Then, make your way to the volcanic sunsets and cliffside architecture of Santorini. End your trip on Crete, where amazing beaches, excellent cuisine, and great hospitality await.

Head to the quaint village of Vamos on Crete

Authentic Greece: Athens, Crete & the Cyclades - 14 Days

Experience the romance of Crete, captivating Athens, and the classic Cyclades with the 14-day version of this adventurous itinerary. You'll use coastal Chania as your base, taking in medieval architecture, elegant mansions, sculpted fountains, and a postcard-perfect Venetian port. Spend a few nights in Vamos, a traditional village, before wrapping up your journey with Santorini and lesser-known Naxos.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 14 Days

While away for two weeks in lesser-known islands, get a taste of Athens with this itinerary that focuses on relaxation. Whether hiking amid the marble-rich hills of Tinos or tasting fresh produce on Naxos, these four Cycladic islands will have you asking, "Santorini, who?" in no time.

Family Highlights of Greece: Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Naxos & Santorini - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary will take your whole family to some of Greece's most popular spots on both land and sea. You'll start on the mainland, with a mythology experience in Athens followed by an excursion to the clifftop monasteries in Meteora. Seek Apollo's oracle at the ruins of Delphi, then head out to the islands. Enjoy the island-grown cuisine and beaches of Naxos, then hike the Santorini caldera before you return to Athens to watch the sun set over the Temple of Poseidon.

Site of a former village in Samaria Gorge

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos, and Crete - 14 Days

Take two weeks to discover the islands from a more active perspective with this itinerary. Learn to surf on Tinos, ride a horse along the beaches of Naxos, and even cook in the Botanical Gardens of Crete as you discover three major islands sandwiched in between your Athenian arrival and departure.

The old port of Chania, built by Venetians in the 14th century

Historical & Island Adventures: Athens, Crete & the Cyclades - 14 Days

Experience Greece's largest island, Crete's, culture and scenery, captivating Athens, and the most "classic" Greek island group, the Cyclades, with this itinerary. After exploring the Greek capital, you'll use the coastal city of Chania, with its medieval architecture, elegant mansions, sculpted fountains, and postcard-perfect Venetian port, as your base. Then, head for Santorini to experience the highlights of this famous island and wrap up your adventure in lesser-known Naxos, the quintessential Cycladic island.

Past and Present in Athens, Tinos, Mykonos & Naxos - 14 Days

Some say that Greek civilization has been around so long, they've had the opportunity to try every form of government. See the results of those political experiments on this 14-day itinerary, starting in Athens, the birthplace of democracy. You'll head out to the Cyclades after an Acropolis tour to experience the food and history of the islands before you return to the city.

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 14 Days

Spend two weeks treating yourself to some of Greece's finest food and wine traditions. You'll start with four days among the fields of Nafplio in the Peloponnese, followed by a full week in the Cyclades where you'll learn to cook on Tinos, visit a Mykonian farm, and tour the tavernas of Naxos. Cap it off with a cooking class under the Acropolis upon your return to Athens.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 10 Days

These four Cycladic islands haven't graced as many guidebook covers as their glitzier cousins, but that means there's more here for you to discover without battling hordes of selfie sticks. Take 10 days to tour Syros, Tinos, Naxos, and Ios on this itinerary, with pilgrimage sites, culinary experiences, and more.

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos, and Crete - 10 Days

Do much more than lounge on the beach with this Greek itinerary. You'll start in Athens, then head out to the islands to hike through rocky villages, bike past idyllic beach scenes, and trek the Samaria Gorge. Top it off with a culinary tour before you return to Athens for a sunset celebration.

Best of Greece: Athens, Tinos, Naxos & Santorini - 10 Days

Mix well-known favorites with some smaller spots on this 10-day itinerary. You'll explore Classical history in Athens and Delphi before heading out to the islands. See the pilgrimage sites on Tinos and ancient sanctuaries on Delos, then continue to Naxos to try out the island's many agricultural products and end your trip cruising through Santorini's volcanic caldera.

Culture & Adventure in Athens, Naxos & Santorini - 10 Days

Spend ten days amid some of the most popular spots in Greece. You'll start off in Athens, where you'll experience the Acropolis and the shores of the Athenian Riviera. Then sail into the Cyclades, landing first at Naxos for a hike through the island's history, then continuing to Santorini to explore its beaches and enjoy the caldera views.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 10 Days

Cover a range of terrain across Greece with this athletic 10-day itinerary. Start in Athens with a day trip up to Meteora's monasteries in the sky, then sail to the Cyclades to hike and bike on the shore. Stop in Crete to trek the towering Samaria Gorge before you return to Athens.

Explore Athens & the Cyclades - 10 Days

The beautiful Cyclades consist of hundreds of islands. You'll get to know three of the best — Naxos, Ios, and Milos — on this 10-day tour of Athens and the Greek islands. Start with sightseeing in the capital city, then travel by ferry to Naxos, where you'll go on a gourmet food tour of the island. Boat around secluded beaches on Ios, and on the island of Milos, you'll see the ruins where one of the world's most famous artworks was discovered. Finish the trip back with a sunset cruise back in Athens.

Past & Present in Athens, Tinos, Mykonos & Naxos - 10 Days

Study up for your 10-day trip through Greece's history and modern influence. Go from up on the Acropolis to down to the Aegean Sea, circling through the Cycladic islands of Tinos, Mykonos, and Naxos with temples, food tours, historic terraces, and more.

Embark on a culinary journey through Greece

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 10 Days

Legend has it that the grapes of Nemea were brought to the people by Dionysus, and you can try the "fruit of the gods" for yourself on this 10-day culinary itinerary. Tour a working Peloponnesian olive grove and learn about the oil-making process, cook your own Cycladic feast on charming Tinos, visit a traditional Mykonos farm, and sample the native varietals of Nemea's wineries.

The pink sand beach of Elafonissi, Crete

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 19 Days

Explore Greece's beauty and culture by foot, kayak, bike, and more on this 19-day adventure. Explore the sights and sounds of Athens, and learn to fish like the locals. Next, set sail for the Cyclades, where you'll go hiking, surfing, diving, and horseback riding on the islands of Tinos and Naxos. Step back in time on Crete with a stroll through Venetian Chania and a thrilling trek through Samaria Gorge. Then head back to the mainland for a visit to the historical sites at Mycenae and Nafplio.

Experience the best in Greek wine and cuisine on this 10-day luxury tour

Luxury Greek Gastronomy Tour: Athens, Nafplio, Santorini & Naxos - 10 Days

This lavish 10-day exploration of Greek food and wine starts in Athens, where you'll stroll through historic neighborhoods and visit the towering Acropolis. Then, you're off to Nafplio for an introduction to local cuisine by way of dinner with a private chef and a wine tasting among the ancient vines of Nemea. Fly to Santorini for a sunset catamaran cruise, then ferry over to Naxos to taste local cheeses and visit a citron distillery. End with a celebratory dinner of fresh seafood overlooking the glittering Athenian Riviera.

Experience Local Greece: Athens, Crete, & the Cycladic Islands - 15 Days

Get to know Crete, Athens, and the Cycladic Islands on the 15-day version of this experiential tour. After visiting the capital city, head to Chania as your base for exploration on Crete, where you'll take in the medieval architecture and postcard-perfect Venetian port. Spend time hiking, eating, and more in a traditional village before wrapping up your journey with Santorini wine-tasting and a horseback ride on lesser-known Naxos.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 15 Days

Hideaway from the rest of the world as you discover the Cycladic islands that you may not have heard about—yet. Spend 15 days visiting Athens and the islands of Syros, Tinos, Naxos, and Ios. They may not be as famous as their glittery neighbors but have plenty of culture, history, and straight-from-the-Aegean seafood to keep you satisfied.

Trek under the towering rock faces of Samaria Gorge

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos & Crete - 15 Days

Start and end in Athens but spend most of your time in the Greek islands with this active 15-day itinerary. Whether you're scaling up to the tops of the cliffs on Tinos or down into Samaria Gorge on Crete, or catching a wave along the way, this trip will keep you moving.

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 15 Days

Get up close with Greek cuisine on this 15-day itinerary. You'll start on the mainland, exploring olive groves, vineyards, and farms to get the full picture of the food chain. Then sail south to the Cyclades, where you'll see those ingredients in action in cooking classes, food tours, and fresh farm dinners.

Past and Present in Athens, Tinos, Mykonos & Naxos - 15 Days

Classical history and mythology enthusiasts and amateurs alike can enjoy this 15-day itinerary. You'll explore the museums and myths of Athens and Mycenae before heading to the Cyclades. In the islands, you'll hike, tour, and taste your way through centuries of history, from the distillers of Naxos to the archaeological site at Delos and Tinos marble route before your return to Athens.

Culture & Adventure in Crete, Santorini, Naxos, the Peloponnese & Meteora - 21 Days

Spend 21 days in Greece with this unique itinerary that balances history, relaxation, and culture. Start in Crete, Greece's largest island with the oldest civilization. Explore the Venetian town of Chania and the massive Samaria gorge, and Crete's capital — Heraklion. Catch a ferry to Naxos where you'll learn how to cook Greek food and relax on an idyllic beach. Finish your trip in laid-back Santorini for an immersion into Greek winemaking.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 20 Days

In just under three weeks, you'll explore the Greek mainland and islands by hike, horse, kayak, and more. Learn to fish the traditional way before heading for the Cyclades, where you'll go surfing on Tinos and scuba diving on Naxos. Then sail over to Crete, where you'll learn to cook like the locals and trek through the stunning Samaria Gorge. Complete your journey back on the mainland with a kayaking excursion around Nafplio's imposing coastal castle.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 16 Days

See the lesser-known side of the Cyclades on this 16-day island itinerary. After sampling the street foods of Athens, you'll ferry off to the Cycladic islands that deserve just as much of the spotlight as their more-famous siblings. Tour the mansions of the Cycladic capital on Syros, explore the Tinos marble scene, bike the beaches of Naxos, and see the villages and vineyards of Ios before your return to Athens, accompanied by the sweeping of the Aegean Sea.

The iconic Portara gate on Naxos, with the whitewashed buildings of the island in the background

Athens, Naxos, Santorini & Crete: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find 12 to 14 days perfect for a well-paced Greece trip with stops in Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Crete's Heraklion and Chania. It's possible to hit the highlights in 10 or 11 days if you don't mind a fast-paced itinerary. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favorite itinerary extensions include Vamos, Mykonos, or Rethymno. Get inspired with the following trip ideas below.

Hiking in the mountains of Samaria Gorge

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 21 Days

This three-week adventure will have you hiking, biking, and diving your way around the Greek islands and mainland. You'll explore the Athenian Riviera by bicycle and learn to fish the traditional Greek way, before heading to the Cyclades for a surfing lesson and trekking in Tinos, and some scuba diving and horseback riding around Naxos. Then you'll travel to Crete to hike the gorgeous Samaria Gorge before returning to the mainland for kayaking in coastal Nafplio.

Taste of the Cyclades and Crete - 16 Days

The glittering Cyclades span hundreds of miles, with centuries of history under their belt. Your trip through the island chain will start in glamorous Mykonos before a stop at relaxed Paros for lazy days of beaches and tavernas. Continue to Naxos and Ios, making your way to the volcanic sunsets and cliffside architecture of Santorini. Finally, head to Crete, where excellent cuisine and hospitality await.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 11 Days

What better way to unwind than spending 11 days sampling the culinary selections from across the Cyclades surrounded by the sea? You'll start this trip with a street food tour of Athens, then head to less famous yet beautiful islands, stopping in Syros, Tinos, Naxos, and Ios to sip wine, sample fresh produce, and even learn how to recreate the recipes at home.

Authentic Greek Adventure: Athens to the Cyclades - 16 Days

Get to know Crete, Athens, and the Cycladic Islands on the 16-day version of this experiential tour. After visiting the capital city, head to Chania as your base for exploration on Crete, where you'll take in the medieval architecture and postcard-perfect Venetian port. Spend time hiking, eating, and more in a traditional village before wrapping up your journey with Santorini wine-tasting and a horseback ride on lesser-known Naxos.

Enjoy three nights in colorful Santorini

Discover Ancient Greece & the Cyclades - 12 Days

Enjoy some of the most beautiful islands in the Cyclades on this trip, starting on the mainland with mythology tours of the Acropolis, stargazing at constellations, and walks through the Temple of Delphi. Make your way to Tinos, the hidden gem of the Aegean, where you'll enjoy visits to marble villages, an afternoon on the beach, and an art workshop, followed by the glitz of Mykonos and the ancient ruins of Delos. End your trip with historical sites in Naxos, plus gorgeous views, beaches, and a wine tasting in Santorini.

Ferry to Tinos from Mykonos and explore the island's Old Town

Past & Present in Athens, Tinos, Mykonos & Naxos - 11 Days

About seven percent of the world's marble comes from Greece, and you'll get to see the source—alongside plenty of other famous exports—on this 11-day itinerary. In addition to a hike along the marble route on Tinos, you'll experience homemade cheese and liqueur on Naxos, mythology on Delos, and the museums of Athens.

Enjoy delicious Greek food overlooking the Aegean Sea in Mykonos

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 16 Days

Eat your way across Greece on this 16-day tour of Athens, the Peloponnese peninsula, and the Cyclades islands. Start your trip with a welcome dinner in the capital before heading to Nafplio to explore the region's agriculture and visit three local vineyards. Then, it's time for a trip to the islands, where you can try some of the favorite foods and drinks of Tinos, Mykonos, and Naxos and learn to prepare your own versions of beloved dishes.

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 11 Days

You've probably heard of feta, but what about graviera? Mizithra? How about their cousin kefalotyri? Meet every member of the Greek cheese family and more on this 11-day itinerary. You'll see them straight from the source along with other culinary and cultural highlights as you play shepherd for a day, learn how to put them to use in a Cycladic cooking class on Tinos, and visit the many other cheese habitats with a Naxos food tour before you return to Athens.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 11 Days

You'll cover plenty of ground with this 11-day itinerary as you hike and bike your way around the Greek mainland and isles. You'll travel from the ancient ruins of Athens to the clifftop monasteries of Meteora to the beaches and mountains of Crete and the Cyclades. Along the way, you'll indulge in Greek culinary delights, enjoy a sunset visit to the Temple of Poseidon, and wander the pretty lanes of Chania.

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos, and Crete - 16 Days

Get ready to hike, bike, and swim your way around Athens and some of Greece's most beautiful islands. Begin and end your journey in the ancient capital, where you'll see history from the seat of your bicycle. Then soak up the beauty and culture of Naxos on horseback, learn to surf on the hidden gem of Tinos, and trek through Crete's spectacular Samaria Gorge. Reward yourself with one last Aegean sunset at the Temple of Poseidon.

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos, and Crete - 11 Days

Skip the sun lounger and go straight for your sneakers instead on this 11-day itinerary. Start by spinning down the Athenian Riviera before you ferry out to Tinos, Naxos, and Crete, with new scenery and challenges awaiting at every spot before you return to Athens for a sunset over the sea.

Explore the Cyclades and land on Ios to see its traditional houses, windmills, and churches

Athens, Naxos, Tinos, Ios & Syros: Best Itinerary Ideas

Athens, Naxos, Tinos, Ios, and Syros are a classic pairing for travelers headed to Greece. To make the most of your trip, maximizing time between travel days at each incredible stop, you'll want to plan your trip for about 10 to 14 days. Arrange your perfect trip to Athens, Naxos, Tinos, Ios, and Syros with the itinerary ideas below.

Discover some of the lesser known islands of the Cyclades, like Sifnos

Island Hopping From Athens Across the Cyclades - 16 Days

Immerse yourself in the culture of Athens and six Cycladic islands on this 16-day tour, visiting local villages, farms, and wineries. Begin by exploring the Acropolis in the capital, then fly to Mykonos to hike, eat, and sip wine before hopping on a ferry to Naxos, where you'll absorb history at the Temple of Apollo and cruise around the island. Learn how to cook traditional dishes on a farm in Paros, then explore the islands of Sifnos, Milos, and Santorini on horseback, on foot, and in a Jeep.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 22 Days

Get ready to hike, kayak, and surf your way around the Greek mainland and isles with this 22-day itinerary. In just over three weeks, you'll see the Athenian Riviera by bike, learn traditional fishing techniques from the locals, and spend time surfing and diving on the beaches of Tinos and Naxos. Along the way, you'll trek through the lunar landscape of Volax and Crete's beautiful Samaria Gorge before returning to the mainland for a dose of history and ancient mythology.

Go horseback riding on the beaches of Naxos

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 17 Days

This 17-day adventure will take you from the waters of the Aegean to the mountains of Crete to the archaeologic sites of Athens and Mycenae. You'll explore the Greek mainland and islands by foot, bike, horse, kayak and surfboard on this action-packed tour. Along the way, you'll sample local delicacies, discover unexpected landscapes, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets.

Cultural Cyclades: Mykonos, Naxos, Ios, Santorini - 12 Days

Visit four distinct islands in Greece's most famous archipelago with this 12-day itinerary. Shop the glamorous boutiques of Mykonos, take a cooking workshop on cultural hotspot Naxos, experience village life on tiny Ios, and soak in the sun (and sunsets) of Santorini. Along the way, you'll enjoy lots of Greek history, glorious beach time, and pretty ferry rides across the Aegean sea.

Relaxing Secret Cyclades - 12 Days

Take 12 days to explore some of the lesser-known islands of the Cyclades. Start by sampling street food in Athens before venturing out to sea. You'll stop on Syros, Tinos, Naxos, and Ios, with enough stately homes, savory food tours, and sunny beaches to keep you in serenity long after your trip is over.

The beautiful interior landscape of Crete

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 12 Days

Discover the intense beauty of the Greek mainland and islands as you hike, bike, and kayak your way around. This 12-day itinerary will take you from the bustling capital to the clifftops of Meteora to the shores of the Cyclades. You'll hike the hills of Tinos and trek through Crete's Samaria Gorge, bike along the perfect beaches of Naxos, kayak in the sea beneath a castle fortress, and more on this action-packed adventure.

Past & Present in Athens, Tinos, Mykonos & Naxos - 12 Days

Immerse yourself in the history of Greece with this 12-day itinerary. Start with the museums and myths of Athens with an Acropolis tour, cooking class, and trip to Mycenae. Then venture out to the Cyclades to see the sites and sample some of the local agriculture along the way.

Cyclades & Peloponnese Culinary Heritage - 12 Days

Greece produces more feta cheese than any other country, and you can do your best to make a dent in their supply on this 12-day itinerary. Eat your way through both the mainland and the islands in olive groves and amid vineyards before learning to cook under the Acropolis to cap it all off.

Active Athens, Tinos, Naxos, and Crete - 12 Days

The Greek word for water is "neró," which will come in handy both when you need to refill your bottle before trekking over the hills and when you're pointing out views from the ferry on this 12-day itinerary. Spend your days taking in all the activities that Athens and the islands have to offer, whether you're biking down the Athenian Riviera or hiking into Crete's Samaria Gorge.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 23 Days

Take your time exploring Greece by bike, horse, kayak, and much more on this 23-day adventure. You'll pedal along the shores of the Athenian Riviera and learn traditional fishing techniques on the Saronic Gulf before heading for the Cyclades. There, you'll learn to surf on Tinos and go scuba diving on Naxos before making your way to Crete for some hiking, cooking, and beach time. Finally, travel back to the mainland for a visit to some fascinating historical sites at Sounion, Mycenae, and Nafplio.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 18 Days

Get ready to hike through the hills of Greece, go fishing in the traditional way, and surf in azure island waters with this thrilling itinerary. As you go from the mainland to the isles and back again, you'll visit clifftop monasteries, learn to cook like the locals, and explore the country by bike, horse, and kayak. You'll go off the beaten path with a trip to the island of Tinos, discover fascinating historical sites at Mycenae and Nafplio, and still have time to unwind on the beaches of Naxos and Crete.

Rock formations on Agia Anna beach in Naxos

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades & Crete - 24 Days

You'll have plenty of time to bike, hike, surf, and explore the country of Greece in every possible manner on this epic 24-day itinerary. Whether pedaling past beaches or trekking up the Pindos mountains, the mainland has plenty to offer before heading to the Cyclades. Climb and dive through the islands of Tinos and Naxos, then learn to cook on Crete before you return to the mainland for a visit to coastal Nafplio.

Culinary Heritage on Naxos & Crete - 7 Days

Take an agricultural journey with this week-long trip to two of Greece's most dynamic islands. After your first night in Athens, you'll ferry to Naxos for an immersive food tour, then onward to Crete to see working olive groves, the seasonal harvest, and historic villages.

History, Culture & Islands: Athens, Crete & the Cyclades - 13 Days

Experience the culture and scenery of Crete—Greece's largest island—captivating Athens and the Cyclades with this 13-day itinerary. After exploring the capital, you'll use the coastal city of Chania as your base of exploration. Stroll through the local markets, visit the botanical gardens, and savor a Cretan feast. Then, head for Santorini to experience the highlights and wrap up your adventure in lesser-known Naxos before returning to Athens for one last Greek meal.

Past and Present in Athens, Tinos, Mykonos & Naxos - 13 Days

Experience the full timeline of Greece's many millennia on this 13-day trip. You'll start in bustling Athens and detour to Mycenae, most recognizable from its role in the Iliad. Then sail to the Cyclades, sampling modern agriculture on Naxos, ancient ruins on the sacred island of Delos, and more before your return to Athens.

Mainland Greek History & the Cyclades - 14 Days

Discover Athens, Delphi, and the best of the Greek islands during this fun 14-day itinerary. Visit major archeological sites, sample volcanic vintages at wine tastings on Santorini, visit an organic farm on Mykonos, sail the Athenian Riviera, and much more.

Crystal clear waters on the shores of Crete

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 14 Days

On this two-week adventure around the Greek mainland and islands, you'll do everything from hiking to biking to kayaking as you explore the country's beauty and culture. You'll learn to fish the traditional way in the Aegean, go trekking through the lunar landscape of Volax on Tinos, and bike your way around the beaches of Naxos. Soak up some history along the way at Delphi, Chania, and Nafplio.

Cyclades & Crete Culinary History Tour - 14 Days

Greece has been growing crops ranging from chickpeas and cucumbers to pomegranates and walnuts since the days of antiquity. Spend two weeks sampling the fruits of their finely honed labor with this 14-day culinary and cultural tour. Whether you're learning to cook on Tinos or exploring the villages of Crete, the craftsmanship will be obvious in every bite.

Stay two nights in a cliffside hotel in Mykonos (photo courtesy of Cavo Tagoo Mykonos)

Luxury Highlights of Greece: Athens, Mykonos, Naxos, Santorini & Crete - 14 Days

This two-week tour of Greece combines elegant luxury with action-packed fun, starting in Athens, where you'll visit the ancient Acropolis and drive along the scenic Athenian Riviera. Then, you're off to Mykonos for fresh oysters and a sunset catamaran cruise. From here, hop a ferry to Naxos and take a high-speed boat tour of its pristine beaches, followed by Santorini for wine tastings and seaside dining. End with Crete's impressive Knossos Palace and the pale pink sands of Balos Beach.

Discover Food, Wine, and Culture in Greece - 12 Days

This tours focuses on the amazing food, wine, and culture provided by the vibrant country of Greece, highlighting bustling cities like Athens and Chania, as well as the islands of Santorini and Naxos. You'll enjoy numerous food and wine tours, allowing you to taste Greek cuisine, delicacies, pastries, and local wines and liquors, plus your own handmade dishes with a cooking class in Crete. Along the way, you'll visit an olive farm, a family-owned cheese shop, wineries, and bustling food markets, indulging your taste buds in some of the country's most beloved treats.

Cyclades & Crete Culinary History Tour - 8 Days

Some historians believe that pygmy hippos once lived in parts of Greece until they were hunted to extinction, likely for food. You won't get to sample any pygmy hippo, but this eight-day itinerary has plenty of other culinary delights to keep you intrigued, from your welcome dinner in Athens to the tavernas of Naxos's Venetian castle and stone villages of Crete.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 15 Days

Gear up for a thrilling tour of the Greek mainland and isles. In just over two weeks, you'll see the ancient ruins of Athens and Delphi, go trekking on the islands of Tinos and Crete, and discover the beaches of Naxos by bicycle. In between, you'll visit clifftop monasteries, sample local Cretan delicacies, and go sea kayaking around Nafplio's Palamidi Castle.

Explore some of Greece's most beautiful natural landscapes

Active Adventure in Greece: Hiking, Cycling, Swimming & Kayaking - 16 Days

Pack your gear and get ready for a 16-day active adventure across mainland Greece and the islands of Crete, Santorini, and Naxos. Spend a night in Athens, then head to Nafplio for an e-bike tour and Kardamyli for standup paddleboarding and snorkeling. In Chania, jump on a Trikke tour and hike through Samaria Gorge, then in Heraklion, join a 4WD safari along an ancient Minoan trail at sunset. Finish with a sea kayak in Santorini and, with the energy you have left, a trek up Mount Zas in Naxos.

Crete & Cyclades Culinary Heritage - 16 Days

What better way to learn a culture than through food? This 16-day itinerary will take you into Greece's past and present via hands-on agricultural experiences. Head to the islands to learn cook in Tinos, visit a traditional farm and villages on Mykonos, and sample the home-grown products of Naxos. Then continue onto Crete, where you'll visit olive groves, historic homes, traditional dance performances, and more before your return to Athens.

Luxury Cyclades Yacht Cruise - 9 Days

Cruise like a celebrity through the glittering waters of the Cyclades on this nine-day itinerary. The Cyclades are some of the most quintessential Greek islands, and you'll see seven of them from the decks of your yacht, along with plenty of time to explore onshore. From lesser-known spots like beach-lined Milos and petite Antiparos to favorites like bustling Naxos and cosmopolitan Mykonos, you'll scope out this island chain in style.

Cyclades & Crete Culinary History Tour - 9 Days

Toast to the friendship-creating powers of food on this nine-day itinerary. You'll meet the locals as you sample your way through the country, joining them in olive groves or around the farmhouse dinner table to discover Greece's culinary history on Tinos, Naxos, Mykonos, and Crete.

Sailing the Greek Cyclades: Athens, Mykonos, Paros - 10 Days

Best for those interested in seeing Greece by boat, this sailing adventure combines bustling and ancient Athens with some of the country's most beautiful islands: the Cyclades. Set on a yacht, you'll sail the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea in search of the region's rich heritage, including gorgeous beaches, iconic windmills, exotic plant life, and beautiful sunsets. The days are yours to indulge in rich, local cuisine, as well as discover archaeological sites, step back in time while meandering small villages, and enjoy some of the best nightlife in Greece.

City to Sea: Athens & Greek Cyclades - 10 days

This 10-day itinerary offers a quintessential Greek experience, including time in the historic capital, and lazy days sailing around the islands of the Cyclades group. With a charter yacht, you'll cruise to islands large and small, including places where you'll feel as though you've stepped back in time, and others with vibrant dining and shopping scenes. With a mixture of down time and sightseeing activities, you'll feel physically refreshed and mentally stimulated by this luxurious and unforgettable trip.

Historic Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 19 Days

Perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about ancient Greece, this itinerary will take you to some of the major sites both on the mainland and the islands. Begin in Athens, where you'll visit the Parthenon at the Acropolis and learn to cook like the ancient Greeks. Then set sail for the Cyclades, where you'll discover fascinating archaeological sites and get a taste of the islands' modern culture. Make your way to Crete for a trip to the Palace of Knossos and the Minotaur's labyrinth before returning to the mainland to see the birthplace of the Olympics, the Temple of Poseidon, and more.

Cyclades & Crete Culinary History Tour - 10 Days

Wheat, olive oil, and wine are sometimes known as the "Mediterranean triad," forming the basis for ancient Greek cuisine. Travel through their roots with this 10-day itinerary and then see them in modern action, with cooking classes, food tours, and village explorations all to underscore these shared ancestral tastes.

Luxurious accommodations await as you hop your way across Mykonos, Santorini and Crete

Luxury Highlights of Greece: Athens, Mykonos, Naxos, Santorini & Crete - 10 Days

Get a taste of authentic Grecian luxury with this 10-day island-hopping odyssey. Begin in the capital with an introduction to the Acropolis and a chauffeured jaunt along the Athenian Riviera, then skip over to Mykonos for a meal of freshly caught oysters and a private catamaran cruise. See the Temple of Demeter on Naxos, settle into Santorini for wine tastings and a walk through the ruins of Akrotiri, and end on the island of Crete for elevated farm-to-table fare and a journey into the mystical Knossos Palace.

Historic Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 20 Days

Take a deep dive into the history, culture, and beauty of Greece with this itinerary. Starting and ending in Athens, you'll begin by exploring the Acropolis and the Parthenon, followed by stops in Mykonos, the sacred island of Delos, and ancient Naxos. You'll also visit prehistoric Akrotiri on Santorini and Crete's Palace of Knossos on your tour of the islands. Then return to the mainland to see the birthplace of the Olympics and the Temple of Poseidon on the Athenian Riviera.

Snap pics of the Terrace of Lions on Delos

Historic Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades & Crete - 21 Days

Travel through the rich mythology and history of Classical Greece from the mainland to the islands and back. You'll start and end in Athens, beginning by taking in the city from above from the Acropolis and its famous Parthenon. Then down into the islands, with stops at the sacred site of Delos off of Mykonos, prehistoric Akrotiri in Santorini, and the Palace of Knossos on Crete. Return to the mainland to see the Cyclopean walls of Mycenae, stroll the stadium grounds at Olympia, and more before your return to the modern era.

Sail the Greek Islands: Athens, Delphi, the Cyclades & More - 11 Days

Sailing the Greek islands is a quintessential Greek experience. On this 11-day tour you'll explore many islands of the Greek Cyclades group by private charter yacht. Spend your days exploring little villages on islands with only a few hundred inhabitants, or relaxing on beaches, and your nights listening to the waves and Aegean winds. Culture and history lovers are also in luck, as this tour also spends some time in Athens and makes a day trip to Delphi, one of ancient Greece's most important sites.

Best of Greece: Athens & Cyclades Sailing - 13 Days

Greece is known for its ancient history and stunning islands, and you'll spend ample time experiencing both on this 13-day tour. From Athens, with its layers of history, to Meteora and Delphi, culture and history enthusiasts will love the first part of the tour. Then, take the energy level down a few notches and board a private yacht at Mykonos. Spend the remainder of the trip sailing around the beautiful Cyclades Islands, in the Aegean Sea.

Cyclades & Crete Culinary History Tour - 11 Days

Try dakos, the traditional snack of Crete, along with many other delicacies on this 11-day itinerary. You'll see the origins of tomato, bread, and olive oil with farm visits and grove tours, then experience how they can be combined to form a vast array of savory options with a Cycladic cooking class—and as many taverna visits as you like.

Greek Islands & History: Athens, the Cyclades, & More - 12 Days

Both culture and nature lovers will enjoy this 12-day tour of Greece. Starting in Athens then traveling to Delphi, you'll learn all about classical Greek history and unparalleled museums and archeological sites. Then, the relaxation begins in Mykonos, where you'll meet your charter yacht. Spend the rest of your trip sailing around the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean Sea, a quintessential and unforgettable Greek experience.

Cyclades & Crete Culinary History Tour - 12 Days

The phrase "take the bull by the horns" is believed to have originated on Crete, and that's how you should approach this 12-day itinerary. You'll need plenty of stamina as you eat and drink your way through Tinos, Naxos, Mykonos, and Crete, whether you're taking a cooking class, trekking the villages of Apokoronas, or trying out your moves at a demonstration of traditional Cretan dancing.

Cyclades & Crete Culinary History Tour - 13 Days

Try out all the bounty the lush Mediterranean has to offer, both from the sea and the climate, with this 13-day itinerary. With four different islands on the itinerary, the seafood will be fresh, the olive oil smooth, and the wine flowing as you make your way through Tinos, Naxos, Mykonos, and Crete.

Essential Greece: Athens & Greek Cyclades Sailing Adventure - 14 Days

With two full weeks in Greece you can see many of its unmissable sights, and experience many of its greatest attractions. An ancient country littered with historic ruins, with a stunning view around every corner, on this tour you'll combine sightseeing with relaxing and sailing around on a charter yacht. Start in the buzzing capital, Athens, then move on to the cliff-side monasteries at Meteora and the famous site of Delphi. After a dose of culture and history, head to Mykonos to board your charter yacht for a multi-day sailing tour of the Cyclades islands. Enjoy the famous Aegean winds, sparkling beaches, and a slower pace of life.

Greek Islands & Ancient History: Mykonos, Delphi, Meteora, & More - 15 Days

Greece is a country littered with ancient history and awash with stunning views. On this 15-day tour you'll experience it all, from the buzzing capital to the cliff-side monasteries at Meteora and the famous site of Delphi. After a good dose of culture and history, board your charter yacht for a multi-day sailing tour of the Cyclades group of islands. There you'll discover a slower pace of life, sparkling beaches, and traditional towns, as well as some of those ubiquitous ancient archeological sites.

Historic Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 18 Days

Immerse yourself in the mythology and history of ancient Greece with this comprehensive itinerary. You'll begin in Athens, where you'll explore the Acropolis and its Parthenon before setting sail for the Cyclades. Discover fascinating archaeological sites on sacred Delos, ancient Naxos, and Santorini. From there continue to Crete for a chance to walk the Minotaur's labyrinth at Knossos. Back on the mainland, learn about the Eleusinian Mysteries, visit Helen of Troy's home at Mycenae, and see the ancient birthplace of the Olympics before a sunset sendoff at the Temple of Poseidon.

Other popular travel destinations in Greece
Athens · Greek Islands · Cycladic Islands · Santorini · Crete · Mykonos · Chania · Peloponnese · Northern & Central Greece · Nafplio · Tinos · Heraklion · Meteora · Ionian Islands · Kalabaka · Zagori · Thessaloniki · Corfu · Nafpaktos · Paros · Sparta & Mani · Olympia · Delphi · Syros · Mani Peninsula · Monemvasia · Dodecanese & Northern Aegean Islands · Rhodes · Milos · Kalamata · Rethymno · Corinth · Sparta · Sifnos · Saronic Islands · Gortynia · Messinia · Drama · Hydra · Sifnos Port

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