Essential Cyclades

Regular price: $5,635.00
Sale price: $5,635.00

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Island Hopping Holiday combining Athens, Mykonos, Paros and Santorini

11 Days ex Athens

Departs: Daily

Athens (1) | Mykonos (3) | Paros (2) | Santorini (3) | Athens (1)

Experience the magic of Greece on this beautifully paced island-hopping journey, blending ancient history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking coastal scenery. Begin in timeless Athens before sailing across the sparkling Aegean Sea to discover the charm of Mykonos, the relaxed elegance of Paros, and the iconic beauty of Santorini. Along the way, seamless transfers, handpicked accommodation, and the freedom to explore each destination at your own pace. From sun-drenched beaches and whitewashed villages to fascinating mythology and unforgettable sunsets, this itinerary captures the very essence of Greece in one effortless and inspiring journey.

Highlights:

24/7 local operator support in Greece
Discover the cosmopolitan charm of Mykonos, paired with stunning beaches and picturesque waterfronts
Unwind in Paros, a hidden gem offering authentic Greek island life, beautiful beaches, and rich history
Take in the world-famous sunsets and dramatic caldera views of Santorini, one of the most iconic destinations in the world

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 overnight. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Day 2: Athens – Mykonos (B)

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

Mykonos is renowned as one of the prettiest and most cosmopolitan of the Greek islands. Here you will find superb beaches traditional windmills white-washed buildings and cobblestoned streets. The town comes alive in the evening with entertainment centred around the harbour.

Day 3 & Day 4: Mykonos (B)

Two days at leisure to explore this beautiful island.

Mykonos plays a key role in Greek mythology reputedly being the location where the battle between the Gods and the Titans took place. Hercules having lured the giants from the protection of Mount Olympus defeated them at Mykonos. The large rocks scattered around the area are said to be the petrified remains of…certain body parts of the giants. This is where the slang anatomical term “stones” originated.

You might like to load up a hamper with local food and find somewhere for a picnic. For those wanting to delve into the history of Mykonos the Archaeological Museum houses many interesting artefacts including a famed vase painted with scenes from the fall of Troy. Towards the end of the day make your way toward Little Venice a delightful area composed of rows of fishing houses with balconies hung over the sea. Many of these houses some of which were built in the 18th century have been converted into bars cafes and galleries. This is a perfect place to watch the sunset.
Mykonos comes alive at night belying the island’s population of just over 10000.

Day 5: Mykonos – Paros (B)

Today you will be transferred to the port to embark on your high-speed ferry journey to Paros. Mykonos/Paros (Hydrofoil / Catamaran). After disembarking in Paros you will be transferred to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for two 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 6: Paros (B)

Day at leisure to explore Paros.

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 7: Paros – Santorini (B)

Today you will be transferred to the port to embark on your high-speed ferry journey 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.

No other place in the world resembles this unique Cycladic island believed by some to be the legendary lost continent of Atlantis which was swallowed by the sea when the volcano erupted. Santorini is known worldwide for its unique views and colourful sunsets.

Day 8 & Day 9: Santorini (B)

Two days at leisure to explore this unique island.

The beautiful 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.

Many people believe Santorini to be the location of Atlantis from Platonic myth and the ancient ruins of Thera, although dated to after the eruption, lend credence to that theory. The uphill walk is rewarded with a fascinating archaeological site which includes Hellenistic Roman and Byzantine periods. For those who prefer, it is a short taxi drive to the top.

Day 10: Santorini - Piraeus/Athens (B)

Today you will be transferred to the port to embark on your high-speed ferry journey to Piraeus. Santorini to Piraeus (Hydrofoil / Catamaran). After disembarking in Piraeus, you will be transferred by private vehicle to your hotel where accommodation is reserved for overnight.

Day 11: 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
Round trip transfers in Athens on private basis (airport/hotel & hotel/port)
Round trip port transfers on Mykonos, Paros and Santorini
- First Class - transfers by shared coach
- Deluxe Class - transfers on private basis
Economy Class high-speed ferry tickets Piraeus/Mykonos/Paros/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

Mykonos

First Class: Pelican Bay Hotel

Deluxe Class: Mykonos Grand Hotel - Sea View Room

Paros

First Class: High Mill Hotel

Deluxe Class: Summer Sense Hotel - Sea View Room

Santorini

First Class: El Greco Hotel

Deluxe Class: Santo Pure Hotel - Sea View Suite

Athens

First Class: President Hotel

Deluxe Class: Electra Metropolis Hotel

View Important Information

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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.

Essential Cyclades

Day 1: Athens

Day 2: Athens – Mykonos (B)

Day 3 & Day 4: Mykonos (B)

Day 5: Mykonos – Paros (B)

Day 6: Paros (B)

Day 7: Paros – Santorini (B)

Day 8 & Day 9: Santorini (B)

Day 10: Santorini - Piraeus/Athens (B)

Day 11: Athens (B)

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

TOUR EXCLUSIONS:

Athens

Mykonos

Paros

Santorini

Athens

Cycladic Splendours

Highlights of the Cyclades

Crete and the Cyclades

Aegean Splendours