Athens to Santorini





From ancient Athens, embark on a colourful adventure through the Greek Islands
Embark on this eight-day adventure from Athens to Santorini, across the Aegean Sea. Wander through the narrow alleyways of the fortress-like town of Syros, visit the archaeological treasures of Delos and soak up the sun on the beaches of Mykonos. Learn how chalvadopita is made during a traditional loukoumi workshop, set off on a half-day excursion along the volcanic rim from Thira to Oia and explore the ancient ruins of Delos. Join your local leader on a walking tour through the main town of Ermoupolis, indulge in the region’s local produce and enjoy plenty of free time to unwind with a drink (or two) in hand.
4.9
240 reviewsStart: Athens, Greece
End: Santorini, Greece
- Duration
- 8 days
- Group size
- 1 to 12
- Minimum age
- 15 years old
- Style
Basix: Simple accommodation, local transport and lots of free time
Original: Tourist-class hotels, some meals included and a great mix of included activities and free time
Comfort: Comfortable accommodation, with a relaxed pace of travel and many included meals and activities
Premium: Our best accommodation, exclusive inclusions and our most experienced leaders
- Original
- Theme
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- Explorer
- Physical rating
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Why you'll love this trip
- Swim and snorkel in the warm, crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. As the sun sets, enjoy free time to join locals at one of Mykonos’ many bars and clubs.
- Visit a family-run traditional loukoumi workshop in Syros. Learn how the multi-coloured, fruit-flavoured jellies (also called Greek delight) and chalvadopita (hazelnut, almond or honey-filled wafers) are made.
- Join your local leader on a half-day excursion along the volcanic rim from Thira to Oia, passing whitewashed villages perched on plunging cliffs.
- Discover Greece’s rich history and mythology in Delos, the sacred birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, exploring ancient ruins, sacred precincts and intricately decorated Minoan mansions.
- Walk through the narrow alleyways of the fortress-like town of Ano Syros. Listen for traditional Rembetiko music drifting from family-run tavernas as you explore.
View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2026 - 31 December 2026
Itinerary
Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today in Athens – named after the goddess of wisdom. If you arrive early, maybe join the Taste of Athens Urban Adventure, wander through the Acropolis Museum or take a half-day trip to Cape Sounio. After the welcome meeting, perhaps head out for some gyros and ouzo with your new travel companions.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
- Athens - Acropolis Pass for 5 Sites - EUR30
- Athens - National Archaeological Museum - EUR15
- Athens - Day trip to the Saronic Islands - EUR140
- Athens - Day Trip to Delphi - EUR60
- Athens - Lycabettus Hill - Free
- Athens - Numismatic Museum - EUR15
- Athens - Twilight Athens Urban Adventure - EUR99
- Athens - Acropolis Museum - EUR30
- Athens - Half day trip to Cape Sounio - EUR55
It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
This morning, you’ll travel by metro to the port of Piraeus, then catch a scenic ferry to Syros. When you arrive, join your local leader on a walking tour through the main town of Ermoupolis – home to well-preserved neoclassical mansions and 19th-century tenement blocks. Syros is also famous for its sweets! Stop at a family-run traditional loukoumi workshop, where you’ll learn how these multi-coloured fruit-flavoured jellies (also called Greek delight) and chalvadopita (hazelnut, almond or honey-filled wafers) are made. You’ll have plenty of time to explore tomorrow, so tonight, you can relax at a waterfront cafe and watch the setting sun turn the nearby houses pink.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Syros - Loukoumia Workshop Visit
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
After breakfast, set off on a walk through the fortress-like town of Ano Syros, with its narrow alleyways, handmade souvenir shops and sweeping views of the Aegean Sea. Listen for traditional Rembetiko music drifting from family-run tavernas as you wander. Then, enjoy some free time to explore Syros at your own pace – maybe discover abandoned windmills, visit archaeological sites or simply relax on a beach for the afternoon. Tonight, take a taxi to a taverna in a remote northern village for dinner. Sample the region’s local flavours as you watch the sun set over the Aegean Sea.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Dinner
- Syros - Ano Syros Walk
- Syros - Dinner at remotely located village
- Syros - Archaeological Sites & Ruins - EUR5
- Syros - Industrial Museum of Syros - EUR2
- Syros - Historical tour of Ermoupolis Textile Heritage Museum - EUR20
Today, board a ferry to Mykonos – a beautiful island named in honour of Apollo's grandson. In ancient Greek mythology, it was known as the battlefield where Zeus fought the Gigantes, but today the island is best known for its decadence, style and nightlife. When you arrive, join your leader for a walk through the maze-like Old Town. Browse chic galleries and boutiques, follow flower-lined paths past age-old churches and tiny restaurants. Then, spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and splashing in the water. As the sun sets, maybe join Europe’s party crowd at one of Mykonos’ many bars and clubs, or take a more traditional approach with dinnerin a backstreet restaurant.
- Hotel (1 night)
There are no meals included on this day.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
This morning, take a half-daytrip to the nearby island of Delos. One of the most important archaeological and mythological sites in the Greek Islands, Delos is a sacred area and the political and religious centre of the Aegean. When you arrive, discover some of its archaeological treasures, including the Terrace of the Lions and the Sacred Precinct. Later, head to one of Mykonos’ famous beaches – some of the best in Europe. Spend the afternoon finding the perfect beach bar for a drink (or two) or simply relax along the coastline for a swim. You could also visit the 19th-century House of Lena or the Aegean Maritime Museum. Tonight, explore Ano Mera for a seafood dinner or wander down to Little Venice, where colourful balconies hang over the sea.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Delos - Day Trip to the Island of Delos
- Delos - Archaeological Site
- Mykonos - Aegean Maritime Museum - EUR4
- Mykonos - House of Lena - EUR2
- Mykonos - Trip to Village of Ano Mera (by public bus) - EUR4
- Mykonos - Paradise Beach (by public bus) - EUR4
- Mykonos - Super Paradise Beach (by public bus) - EUR10
- Myconos - Cooking Class in Myconian house & farm - EUR150
Take another ferry and arrive on the spectacular southern island of Santorini (approximately 2.5hrs hours). Renowned for its amazing natural beauty, Santorini is one of Europe's tourist hotspots, the home of the iconic image of the Greek islands – whitewashed, blue-domed buildings clinging to the cliff face with sparkling water in the background. Discover the hilltop ruins of Ancient Thira and its fascinating Prehistoric Museum, as well as the archaeological site of Akrotiri, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that gives an insight into how the people here lived before the eruption. Check out the range of restaurants and shops in the island's capital, interchangeably called Thira or Fira. If you have time while you're here, perhaps head to one of Santorini's volcanic beaches, such as Red Beach or the black beaches of Perissa, Vlhada, Perivolos or Agios Georgios. Be sure to try some of the island’s delicious food – the nutrient-filled volcanic soil makes the ingredients grown here full of flavour.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Santorini - Museum of Prehistoric Thira - EUR10
- Santorini - Volcano & Hot Springs Half Day Trip (by boat) - EUR25
- Santorini - Beer tasting at local brewery - EUR30
- Santorini - Wine museum and wine tasting from - EUR25
- Santorini - Archelogical site of Akrotiri - EUR20
- Santorini - Sunset Cruise & Dinner - EUR90
- Santorini - Semi Private Sunset Catamaran cruise & Dinner - EUR160
Please note that our accommodation is located in the village of Karterados. It is a walk of approximately 20 minutes into Santorini's main town of Thira, or alternatively there are frequent bus departures from the bus stop right beside the hotel.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes
In 1500 BC, a volcanic eruption sank the centre of Santorini, creating one of the planet’s most striking geological formations – the caldera. Today, you’ll take an excursion along the crater’s rim, starting in Thira and passing through small villages on your way to Oia. If time allows, maybe consider the half-daytrip to the island’s volcano and hot springs in the centre of the lagoon, or visit a local winery. Here, vines are pruned into low basket shapes that sit on the volcanic soil, protecting the grapes from strong winds. Tonight, say goodbye to your Greek Islands adventure, maybe with a cocktail in hand, as the sun sets behind the iconic caldera.
- Hotel (1 night)
- Breakfast
- Santorini - Caldera Rim Hike to Oia
Your hiking distance today will be approximately 12 km or 3 to 5 hours.
Today your adventure comes to an end. As there are no further activities planned, you’re able to leave your accommodation at any time. If you’d like to extend your stay to see all Santorini has to offer, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.
- Breakfast
Inclusions and activities
5 breakfasts, 1 dinner
Ferry, Public bus, Taxi, Metro
Hotel (7 nights)
- Syros - Loukoumia Workshop Visit
- Syros - Ano Syros Walk
- Syros - Dinner at remotely located village
- Delos - Day Trip to the Island of Delos
- Delos - Archaeological Site
- Santorini - Caldera Rim Hike to Oia
- Athens - Acropolis Pass for 5 Sites - EUR30
- Athens - National Archaeological Museum - EUR15
- Athens - Day trip to the Saronic Islands - EUR140
- Athens - Day Trip to Delphi - EUR60
- Athens - Lycabettus Hill - Free
- Athens - Numismatic Museum - EUR15
- Athens - Twilight Athens Urban Adventure - EUR99
- Athens - Acropolis Museum - EUR30
- Athens - Half day trip to Cape Sounio - EUR55
- Syros - Archaeological Sites & Ruins - EUR5
- Syros - Industrial Museum of Syros - EUR2
- Syros - Historical tour of Ermoupolis Textile Heritage Museum - EUR20
- Mykonos - Aegean Maritime Museum - EUR4
- Mykonos - House of Lena - EUR2
- Mykonos - Trip to Village of Ano Mera (by public bus) - EUR4
- Mykonos - Paradise Beach (by public bus) - EUR4
- Mykonos - Super Paradise Beach (by public bus) - EUR10
- Myconos - Cooking Class in Myconian house & farm - EUR150
- Santorini - Museum of Prehistoric Thira - EUR10
- Santorini - Volcano & Hot Springs Half Day Trip (by boat) - EUR25
- Santorini - Beer tasting at local brewery - EUR30
- Santorini - Wine museum and wine tasting from - EUR25
- Santorini - Archelogical site of Akrotiri - EUR20
- Santorini - Sunset Cruise & Dinner - EUR90
- Santorini - Semi Private Sunset Catamaran cruise & Dinner - EUR160
This trip generates 27 kg of CO2-e per person per day
Learn more about our climate commitment.
When you travel with us, The Intrepid Foundation gives you more opportunities to support important causes in destinations you visit.
Before you book you should know
- The main means of transportation on this trip is by public ferry. These are large car ferries that transport hundreds of people, along with cars and trucks. In most cases, there are no reserved seats, and passengers are free to walk around the ferry. Luggage is stored in a designated area on the car deck and is not accessible while the ferry is moving.
- It's recommended that you pack light and smart for this trip, as you'll be required to carry your own luggage between ports and hotels. This can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs, steep inclines, and cobblestone streets.
- The Greek Islands are very hilly and mountainous, which means lots of steps. The cobblestone streets can also become very slippery when wet, so some people may find Greece's topography demanding.
- Summer temperatures can be extreme (over 40°C). It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to manage the heat, and drink plenty of water. Many hotels in Europe have fans rather than air conditioning. Please carefully consider the time of year you wish to travel and your suitability for that season.
- If you have more time to explore Greece, you may want to check out our trip ‘Best of Greece’ (trip code ZMSAC), which explores the mainland in addition to the Cycladic Islands. Alternatively, you could extend your exploration of the Greek Islands by joining the Highlights of Crete departure. Search trip code ZLSA on our website and ask your travel agent for more details.
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.
EUROPEAN HOTELS
Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be rather small, especially by American or Australian standards.
Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.
Attalos Hotel
29 Athinas Street
Monastiraki
Athens
10554
GREECE
Phone: +30 2103212801
Description
Attalos Hotel is situated in the historic district of Monastiraki in the centre of Athens, ideally located for sightseeing at just 10 minutes walk from Syntagma Square and 100 metres from Monastiraki metro station. All rooms have ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning, TV, phone, and are fully equipped with modern facilities. There is a roof top garden and bar that provides a great view of the Acropolis.
Instructions
Metered taxis are readily available at Athens Airport (airport code ATH). Alternatively, you can take metro line 3 to Monastiraki Metro Station. From Piraeus port you can take metro line 1 or 3 to Monastiraki. From there it is a short 2-minute walk to the hotel. Exit the station through the Athinas Street exit. Turn left immediately and walk along Athinas Street for about 200 meters. The hotel will be on your left-hand side. Please note that we have had reports of Travellers being pickpocketed on public transport in Athens. Please be careful with valuables whilst travelling on the metro or the bus.
Pre booked arrival transfer from Athens Airport (ATH): If you have pre booked an arrival transfer, drivers will be waiting for guests at the arrival point in the Airport Arrival Hall (Section A or B), holding an Intrepid sign. In the unlikely event that a guest does not meet their driver at Arrival Hall A or B, they should proceed to the designated area at EXIT 4 (directly opposite the pharmacy), where an assistant will be available to help locate their driver. In case of flight cancellations, changes, if you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly: +30 694 561 3427
Alternate joining point
For trips departing on the following dates, use this joining point.
13 Oct 2025 (ZMSE251013)
Acropolis Hill Hotel
7, Mousson Str., GR 11742, Filopappou
Athina
Athens
117 42
GREECE
Phone: +30 2109235151
Description
Experience a warm hospitality in one of the most privileged locations in the Center of Athens. Nestled in the serene green area of Filopappou Hill, also called the Hill of the Muses, the hotel is central, easily accessible and within walking distance of Athens' top attractions such as the Acropolis, Plaka, and museums.The 3-star Acropolis Hill hotel features modern facilities in a smooth Boutique atmosphere beautifully designed by 3SK-Stylianidis architects. With 60+ years of Greek hospitality experience, our team offers you high quality services and accommodation in the heart of Athens.
Instructions
Pre booked arrival transfer from Athens Airport: Please provide your flight details at the time of booking, or at a minimum 14 days prior to travel, as we may not be able to confirm a request made within 14 days of travel. Your transfer driver will be waiting in the arrivals hall, holding a board with the Intrepid Logo or your name. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall at Athens International Airport (airport code ATH). The journey to central Athens takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes and costs around EUR 50, depending on the time of day. You can also take metro line 3 directly to Syntagma square, at Syntagma Square you need to change to metro line 2 and get off at Sygrou-Fix station. Trains run every 30 min from 06:35 till 23:35, and the journey takes about 45 minutes. Please mind your personal belongings at all times, as pick-pocketing is not unheard of.
Dates and prices
Important notes
1. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.
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