The Greek Islands Itinerary

This Greek adventure kicks off in Athens. Arrive early to visit the Parthenon, see the Temple of Olympian Zeus or be awed by the Acropolis – the axis of the city which towers over the increasingly modern streets below and serves as an ever-present reminder of an ancient history. If time permits, maybe take a day trip to the Saronic Islands or Delphi.

Relax aboard a scenic ferry from Piraeus to Syros. Upon arrival, discover abandoned windmills, ancient ruins and charming villages on a network of stone-paved tracks that crisscross the island. Cool off with a swim at one of the inviting beaches dotted along the coast and at night, be serenaded by classic Rembetiko tunes that waft from the open windows of family-run tavernas.

Arrive on Mykonos, a beautiful island named in honour of Apollo's grandson. Be captivated by the quintessential Greek Isles vista of squat white houses brightly juxtaposed against the cerulean sea. Follow flower-lined paths past age-old churches and tiny restaurants to secluded, sandy beaches and spend the afternoon soaking up the rays and splashing in the water. As the sun sets, join Europe's party crowd at one of the many bars and clubs on Mykonos, or take a more traditional approach with a meal at a delightful backstreet restaurant. The next day, travel to an archaeological site on the island of Delos, a sacred area that was once the political and religious centre of the Aegean.

Wind up the adventure on the southern island of Santorini. Learn first-hand why this remains one of Europe's top holiday hotspots. Chill out on a beach of black sand, admire the ruins of ancient Thira and Akrotiri or hire a scooter to cruise the coastal roads. In the late afternoon, join the crowds that scatter over the hillside at Oia to witness a magnificent sunset over the bay.

Follow the narrow stairways and roughly hewn tracks to find remote, sandy beaches. Hike up to Panagia Gremiotissa, an ancient church marked by windmills and a lone palm that offers stunning views over the island and bay. Visit Byzantine churches and try a sip of ouzo with locals among the whitewashed buildings of Chora. After time spent enjoying the spoils of island life, feast on the day’s catch and perhaps head out after dark to sample Ios’s acclaimed nightlife.

Discover mythical folklore and archaeological history on a hike around Naxos, an island shrouded in racy romantic tales of misbehaving gods. Visit the temple of Apollo, the ruins of a Greek castle and a local liqueur distillery, where the citrus inspired kitron is made. Take time to visit backstreet tavernas and bakeries in the medieval castle area, dive into the sea and end the day with a glass of Naxos wine - reputed to be the antidote for a broken heart. Or for the adventurous, get up close to colourful marine creatures on a scuba diving trip or try windsurfing across the bay.

Depart the Greek Islands and travel to Athens, an ancient city named after the goddess of wisdom. Get aerial views of the city from the Parthenon, take a walk past the Temple of Olympian Zeus or find a cafe in the streets below the Acropolis and watch locals going about their business. Perhaps enjoy a final group dinner and a toast to this grand Greek Island adventure.