Mythical Greece: Athens, Santorini Serenity, & Mykonos Magic
Greece in 9 Days, 7 Nights in Destination
From $400 per person
Available 2026/27
Experience the best of Greece on this unforgettable journey through Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos. Start in Athens, where ancient history comes to life at the Acropolis and lively neighborhoods like Plaka offer authentic charm. Then, sail to the stunning island of Santorini, famed for its whitewashed villages, dramatic caldera views, and spectacular sunsets. Finally, soak up the sun and style of Mykonos, with its iconic windmills, golden beaches, and vibrant nightlife. This independent tour blends culture, relaxation, and scenic beauty—perfect for discovering Greece at your own pace
Trip highlights
- Athens
- Mykonos
- Santorini
- Acropolis Greece
Itinerary
Experience the best of Greece with this unforgettable journey through Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos. Begin in Athens, where ancient history meets vibrant city life—explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and stroll through the charming streets of Plaka. Then, unwind in the stunning island of Santorini, known for its dramatic caldera views, whitewashed villages, and world-famous sunsets. Finally, soak up the glamour and charm of Mykonos, with its beautiful beaches, lively atmosphere, and traditional Cycladic architecture. This tour perfectly blends culture, relaxation, and island adventure, offering an ideal introduction to the magic of Greece.
Day 1: Flight from USA - Night on board
Arrive at your US departure airport, ready to board your flight to Athens. You’ll spend the night on board as you begin your exciting journey.
If your flight departs in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.), please ensure you arrive at the airport the night before your scheduled departure day to allow for check-in and security procedures. Safe travels!
Day 2: Arrival in Athens
Upon arrival at Athens International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in. After settling in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore the historic Greek capital at your own pace.
Stroll through Plaka, the enchanting old district nestled beneath the Acropolis, with its cobblestone lanes, quaint cafés, and neoclassical architecture. For those in the mood for shopping, head to the vibrant streets of Ermou, Kolonaki, and Voukourestiou, home to stylish boutiques and international brands.
Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Athens, where you can relax and rejuvenate for the adventures ahead.
Day 3: Full Day Athens City Tour
After breakfast at the hotel, set off on a guided sightseeing tour of Athens, showcasing the city's most iconic landmarks and historical treasures. Begin in the heart of the city, passing Constitution Square (Syntagma), the House of Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier, and the National Library.
En route to the Acropolis, view Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, with a brief photo stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, site of the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Upon arriving at the Acropolis, explore the architectural wonders of Athens' Golden Age, including the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the iconic Parthenon.
Your journey continues with a visit to the New Acropolis Museum, a stunning modern structure housing a vast collection of classical artifacts and offering panoramic views of the ancient citadel. After the tour, return to your hotel, with the rest of the day at your leisure* to relax or further explore the city.
Please note: The Acropolis terrain is uneven and includes several stairs, which may pose challenges for those with reduced mobility.
*Return transfer to your hotel is included; however, you may choose to remain in the downtown area after the tour to continue exploring independently.
Overnight stay in Athens.
Day 4: Athens - Mykonos
Enjoy an early morning breakfast*, then transfer to the port at the indicated time for your ferry journey to the stunning island of Mykonos. Located in the heart of the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is famed for its golden beaches, vibrant nightlife, and iconic Cycladic charm.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure. We recommend exploring the enchanting town of Hora, where whitewashed alleyways lead to boutique shops, stylish bars, and waterfront tavernas. Soak in the island’s relaxed yet cosmopolitan vibe. Overnight stay in Mykonos.
*Please note: Depending on your ferry departure time and hotel breakfast service, the included breakfast may not be available. A takeaway "breakfast box" will be provided instead.
High-speed ferry upgrade: A faster transfer (approx. 3 hours) is available at an additional cost during booking. This upgrade must be selected at the time of booking.
Travel times: Regular ferry – approx. 5.5 hours | High-speed ferry – approx. 3 hours.
Upgrade option: Elevate your experience by selecting the Superior Flight package, which includes upgraded 4★ hotels and internal flights between Athens and the islands.
Day 5: Full Day in Mykonos
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day at your leisure to soak up the charm and beauty of Mykonos at your own pace. Stroll through the island’s iconic whitewashed alleys, dotted with quaint chapels, boutique shops, and art galleries. Visit the famous windmills and explore Little Venice, where colorful balconies hang over the sea—an ideal spot to enjoy a drink with a view.
Relax on one of the island’s pristine beaches, or take in the island's rich history with a visit to Paraportiani Church, one of the most photographed landmarks in the Cyclades. As night falls, experience Mykonos’ world-renowned nightlife, from stylish seaside lounges to lively dance clubs.
A variety of optional excursions* are available today to further enhance your experience. Overnight stay in Mykonos.
Optional: Half-Day Guided Tour of Delos – Sacred Island of Antiquity
Embark on a captivating half-day tour to Delos, one of the most important mythological, historical, and archaeological sites in Greece. Once a flourishing religious and commercial center, Delos was inhabited from 2500 to 69 B.C., and today it stands as an open-air museum that transports visitors back in time.
Explore the Agora (ancient marketplace), marvel at the iconic Terrace of the Naxian Lions, and walk along the Sacred Way to the Holy Lake. Discover the fascinating ancient theater and residential quarters, including the renowned Houses of Dionysos, Kleopatra, the Trident, the Masks, and the Dolphins, all adorned with intricate mosaics that offer a glimpse into ancient daily life and artistic achievement.
Please note:
Travelers must walk approximately 1 km from the parking area to the port to board the tour boat.
Upon arrival at the island, vouchers must be exchanged for tickets at the check-in counter located at the entrance cabin.
This tour is weather dependent and may be canceled due to sea conditions.
Day 6: Mykonos - Santorini
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to the port for your high-speed ferry to the breathtaking island of Santorini, famed for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, whitewashed architecture, and stunning sea views. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and check in. The afternoon is free for you to begin exploring this enchanting island at your own pace.
In the evening, consider joining our optional excursion to Oia, the postcard-perfect clifftop village renowned for its iconic blue-domed churches, narrow cobblestone lanes, and unforgettable sunset views. Alternatively, take time to admire the island’s impressive caldera, a natural wonder formed by a volcanic eruption, lined with terraced villages that appear to tumble into the sea.
Overnight stay in Santorini.
Optional Visit to Oia: Enjoy three hours in one of Santorini’s most charming towns, a favorite for photographers and romantics alike, known for its spectacular sunsets and Cycladic charm.
High-speed ferry upgrade: Available during booking only (up to 30 days before departure). Approximate travel time: 2 hours. Not available for purchase during the journey
Day 7: Santorini
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a full day to explore the romance and charm of Santorini at your own pace. Stroll through whitewashed villages, relax in a cliffside café, or take in the island’s volcanic landscapes that make Santorini one of the most iconic destinations in the world. For those looking to delve deeper into the island’s culture, cuisine, and dramatic scenery, we offer a selection of optional experiences to choose from*.
Overnight stay in Santorini.
Please note: Due to timing, only one optional activity can be selected for the day. We recommend choosing in advance to secure availability.
Optional Experiences in Santorini
Full-Day Traditional Bus Tour
Discover Santorini’s hidden gems on this immersive tour. Wander through the medieval village of Emporio, relax with free time on the famous black sand beach of Perissa, and enjoy panoramic views from Profitis Ilias Mountain, the island’s highest point. Visit a traditional Greek Orthodox chapel and end the day in Oia, where you’ll witness its iconic sunset.
Caldera–Oia Excursion (Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia & Sunset in Oia)
Set sail aboard a traditional wooden kaiki boat to visit Santorini’s volcanic crater, hike dramatic lava landscapes, and swim to the warm sulfur springs. Continue to Thirassia Island for a relaxing lunch (not included) and a swim. Conclude the day with a climb to Oia, where you’ll watch the world-famous sunset before returning to your hotel.
Volcanic Islands Sunset Dinner Cruise
Cruise along the caldera at golden hour aboard a traditional Greek vessel. Visit the volcano, hike to its crater, and enjoy a rejuvenating swim in the sulfur-rich waters. As the sun sets over Oia, savor a delicious on-board dinner with wine, with unforgettable views as your backdrop.
Santorini Cooking Class & Wine-Tasting Tour
Savor the flavors of Santorini with a hands-on cooking class and wine tasting experience. Visit two traditional wineries, sample signature local varietals, and join a local chef in preparing classic Greek island dishes. Conclude the tour with a relaxing meal of your creations, paired with estate wines.
Note: Most optional excursions are available May through September. For April or October, availability may be limited and subject to weather—booking on-site is recommended.
Day 8: Santorini - Athens
Breakfast at the hotel. At the scheduled time, transfer to the port for your ferry* to Athens.
Today marks your final day in the vibrant Greek capital—make the most of it! Consider browsing local shops for souvenirs or exploring one of Athens' many lively foodie neighborhoods for a last delicious taste of Greek cuisine. Overnight stay in Athens.
* Please note:
You may upgrade to a high-speed ferry for an additional cost during the next step of the booking process. This upgrade is only available up to 30 days before your travel date and cannot be added during the journey.
Regular ferry duration: ~7.5 hours (Santorini to Athens)
High-speed ferry duration: ~5.5 hours (Santorini to Athens)
Alternatively, consider upgrading to the ‘Superior Flight’ option, which includes 4-star accommodations and internal flights between Athens and the islands for a faster and more comfortable travel experience.
Day 9: Ready to Departure to USA
Breakfast at the hotel after an unforgettable journey through Greece’s ancient wonders and breathtaking islands, it’s time to conclude your adventure. At the scheduled time, transfer to the airport for your return flight to the US**.
*Please note: Depending on your flight schedule and the hotel’s breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on your final day.
**Depending on your selected flight, you may arrive in the US the following day.
What the price includes
- Departures are available from JFK (Other major US airports may cost extra)
- 7 Nights of accommodation with Breakfast
- Lunch & Dinner (if mentioned in the itinerary)
- All transfers are provided in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles as outlined in the itinerary (Private transfer cost extra)
- All air taxes and fuel surcharge
- English Speaking Guide & Tour Leader
- All Entrance Tickets mentioned above in the itinerary
- Transfers in Air-Conditioned vehicles
Included activities
- Athens Guided Sightseeing & Acropolis Tour
Accommodation
- President Hotel Athens
- Acrogiali Resort Mykonos
- Myst Boutique Hotel
Not included
Additional Costs and Taxes
Please note that the following are not included in the tour package:
Beverages
Entrance fees*
City taxes
Gratuities
Any services not specifically listed under "What's Included"
*Entrance fees may vary by site and are payable locally.
Additionally, in compliance with Greek regulations, a Climate Resilience Tax is payable directly by guests upon check-in at each accommodation. Rates depend on hotel category and travel season:
April to October:
€15 per room, per night – 5-star hotels
€10 per room, per night – 4-star hotels
€5 per room, per night – 3-star hotels
November to March:
€4 per room, per night – 5-star hotels
€3 per room, per night – 4-star hotels
€1.50 per room, per night – 3-star hotels
Notes: We recommend factoring these amounts into your travel budget in advance.