Island Hopping in Depth

Regular price: $5,179.00
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Island Hopping Holiday combining Athens, Paros, Naxos & Santorini

12 Days ex Athens

Departs: Daily

Athens (1) | Paros (3) | Naxos (3) | Santorini (3) | Athens (1)

Discover the essence of the Greek Islands on this seamless journey through Athens, Paros, Naxos, and Santorini. Blending ancient history with island charm, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of cultural discovery, scenic ferry travel, and time at leisure to explore at your own pace. From the vibrant energy of Athens to the laid-back beauty of the Cyclades, each destination reveals its own unique character—whitewashed villages, crystal-clear waters, rich mythology, and unforgettable coastal landscapes—all thoughtfully connected for a smooth and memorable travel experience.

Highlights:

24/7 local operator support in Greece
Wander through the Plaka in Athens and discover traditional tavernas and artisan shops
Discover Paros, a charming island known for its traditional villages, beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere
Experience Naxos, the largest Cycladic island, rich in history, fertile landscapes, and authentic Greek culture
Take in the dramatic caldera views and world-famous sunsets of Santorini

Itinerary
Accommodation

Day 1: Athens

Welcome to Greece. On arrival at Athens International Airport you will be met by your driver and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for one night. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 2: Athens - Paros (B)

Today you will be transferred by private vehicle from your hotel to Piraeus Port for your high-speed ferry travelling to Paros. Piraeus to Paros (Hydrofoil / Catamaran). After disembarking in Paros you will be transferred to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for three nights.

Paros, a stunning island in the heart of the Cyclades, is known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and crystal-clear waters. With its beautiful beaches Paros offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can explore traditional villages like Lefkes and enjoy vibrant nightlife in Naoussa. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, outdoor activities, or simply soaking up the sun, Paros is a captivating destination that embodies the essence of the Aegean.

Day 3 & Day 4: Paros (B)

Two days at leisure to relax and explore this picturesque island.

The quaint and charming way of life on Paros belies the dramatic history of this destination. Often on the wrong side of wars throughout history, Parians sided with Persian forces in both the Greco-Persian Wars. This caused the island to come under heavy demand for tribute from Athens over the ensuing decades. Having been ruled at various times by Ptolemies and Hellenistic dynasties who also ruled Egypt, followed by the Romans, Byzantines, a Venetian Dukes (granted Paros as part of a fiefdom by the Crusaders), and the Ottoman Turks, it was not until 1832 following the Greek War of Independence that Paros became part of the Kingdom of Greece. This was the first time in over 600 years that the islands had been ruled by fellow Greeks.

These days, Paros is a wonderfully relaxed destination to soak up the Mediterranean sun on one of the many idyllic beaches, or sample some of the local wares at a winery. For the slightly more adventurous travellers, horseback riding tours are a great way to explore the countryside.

Day 5: Paros - Naxos (B)

This morning you will be transferred to Paros Port for your high-speed ferry travelling to Naxos. Paros to Naxos (Hydrofoil / Catamaran). After disembarking in Naxos, you will be transferred to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for three nights. Remainder of the day at leisure.

Naxos is the largest and most fertile of the Cycladic Islands with attractive villages and good swimming beaches. The town is built in amphitheatrical fashion on the side of a hill. There are many interesting monuments including some fine Byzantine Churches, the Kastro with its tower and loopholes and the remains of a Mycenean settlement at Grota. Not far from Apolona, one of the most beautiful seaside villages, is an ancient marble quarry at the entrance to which lies a huge half-finished kouros dating from the 6th century.

Day 6 & Day 7: Naxos (B)

Two days at leisure to relax and explore Naxos.

With its comparatively reliable rainfall and fertile soil, is the most self-sufficient of all the Cycladic islands. With many varieties of fruit grown locally, the ubiquitous olives, and famed throughout Greece for its cheese, Naxos is a great place to pack a hamper and find a quiet place for a picnic. The main centre is a delightful port town filled with white-washed houses and Venetian mansions and is a great place to wander about exploring galleries and cafes.

Some believe that Naxos is home to the cave in which the young Zeus was raised. The purported cave can be found on Mt Zeus and makes a great day hike. At 1004m high, this mountain is the highest in the Cyclades and the effort of the hike up the well-marked and safe path is rewarded with stunning views. For those wanting less exertion, the elegant Fish and Olive Gallery has fast become a favourite shopping destination amongst our clients. With beautiful handmade ceramics, jewellery, and other arts on display and for sale, this shop is a great place to pick up a memento or present.

Day 8: Naxos - Santorini (B)

This morning you will be transferred to Naxos Port for your high-speed ferry travelling to Santorini.
Paros to Santorini (Hydrofoil / Catamaran). After disembarking in Santorini, you will be transferred to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for three nights. Remainder of the day at leisure.

Santorini, one of the most iconic islands in the Cyclades, captivates visitors with its breathtaking sunsets, dramatic cliffs, and charming, white-washed buildings adorned with vibrant blue domes. This volcanic island is famous for its stunning caldera views and unique black and red sand beaches.

Day 9 & Day 10: Santorini (B)

Two days at leisure to explore this stunning island.

The island of Santorini was created by the eruption of a super volcano called Thera in ancient antiquity. This eruption has been estimated to have ejected 100 cubic kilometres of material making it one of the four most powerful eruptions of historic times. The concentric shaped islands that remain have created one of the most perfect natural harbours in the world, so it is no surprise that water activities are so popular here.
Whether partaking a sailing charter relaxing on a beach or taking advantage of the many spectacular viewpoints Santorini is a delightful location to enjoy the Mediterranean. Famed for the beautiful sunsets be sure to find a good vantage point as the day winds down.

Explore the ancient ruins of Akrotiri, a well-preserved Minoan settlement, or wander through the narrow streets of Oia, known for its picturesque architecture and vibrant art scene. Whether you're indulging in exquisite cuisine, relaxing by the sea, or soaking in the island's rich history, Santorini offers an unforgettable experience that captures the magic of the Aegean.

Day 11: Santorini - Athens (B)

This morning you will be transferred to Santorini Port for your high-speed ferry travelling to Athens. Santorini to Piraeus (Hydrofoil / Catamaran). On arrival at Piraeus Port, you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your Athens hotel. Remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 12: Athens (B)

This morning you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to Athens Airport for your onward flight.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

24/7 local operator support in Greece
11 nights' hotel accommodation
Breakfast daily
Roundtrip transfers in Athens (airport/hotel/port & port/hotel/airport) by private vehicle
Roundtrip port transfers in Paros, Naxos & Santorini (port/hotel/port)
- First Class - transfers by shared coach
- Delxue Class - transfers by private vehicle
Economy Class high-speed ferry tickets Piraeus/Paros/Naxos/Santorini/Piraeus
Greece Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel

TOUR EXCLUSIONS:

International airfares
Government Climate Crisis Resilience Tax - to be paid directly to the hotel on check-out (ranges from EUR3-EUR15 - rates subject to change without notice)
Optional tours and excursions
Porterage
Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
Personal Expenses
Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
Visas (unless specified)
Travel Insurance (compulsory)
Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above

Accommodation based on the below (or similar):

Hotels are indicative and subject to availability at the time of booking. If hotels indicated are not available at the time of request, alternatives will be offered and supplements may apply.

Athens

First Class: President Hotel

Deluxe Class: Electra Metropolis Hotel – Acropolis View Room

Paros

First Class: High Mill Hotel

Deluxe Class: Summer Senses Hotel - Sea View Room

Naxos

First Class: Astir of Naxos

Deluxe Class: Sundunes Hotel – Sea View Suite

Santorini

First Class: El Greco Hotel

Deluxe Class: Santo Pure Hotel – Sea View Suite

Athens

First Class: President Hotel

Deluxe Class: Electra Metropolis Hotel – Acropolis View

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Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.