- Meet and greet: Welcome to Athens! Upon your arrival at the Athens International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative and taken on a private transfer to your city hotel.
- Rest of the day: After check-in, enjoy at leisure—either unwind after the long flight or take the opportunity to preview the city at your own pace.The Athens city center is a walkable and fascinating area. Visit the old neiborhood of Plaka in the heart of the city, take a coffee at one of the charming little cafés along the way and feel like a Greek when you combine it with some flavorful ice-cream. Wander through the charming alleys at the foot of the Acropolis and catch glimpses of the sunset framed by traditional colorful houses.If you feel more active than this, you can head to one of the city hills of Lycabettus, Ariospagos or Philopappos and enjoy some spectacular views of the sunset over the city.
ATHENS, SANTORINI
Iconic Greece
Duration
5 Days
When to Go
April to October
Customization
Fully
Physical rating
Easy
Type
Private
(Including transfers and guided tours)
(Including transfers and guided tours)
An unforgettable trip including two of the most famous Greece gems –the historical capital city of Athens and the iconic volcanic island of Santorini. Begin your adventure in Athens and immerse yourself in the rich history of this iconic city before heading to the stunning island of Santorini. With its dramatic caldera views, white-washed buildings, blue-domed churches, and romantic sunsets, Santorini offers a perfect, out-of-this-world blend of natural beauty and charm. Enjoy leisurely strolls through its picturesque villages, relax on volcanic beaches, and savor exquisite Greek cuisine. This 5-day journey is the ideal combination of history, culture, and island relaxation. Perfect as an extention to another tour in Greece, this package is also an excellent choice for a Greece honeymoon tour or a luxury getaway, with opportunities to upgrade your stay for an even more exclusive experience.
Highlights
- Explore the ancient and modern heart of the Athens metropolis.
- Visit the iconic Acropolis, home to the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum.
- Explore the magnificent island of Santorini with the iconic whitewashed houses with blue domes and admire the caldera views, the dramatic cliffs created by the volcanic eruption.
- Visit Oia, one of the most photographed places in the world, known for its breathtaking sunsets.
- Take a romantic cruise to the volcanic islands and thermal springs.
- Take the opportunity to taste local Santorini wine, one of the most famous products of the island.
- Go for shopping of luxury, popular international brands or local artisan products either in Athens or at the islands.
- Indulge yourself with waterfront romantic dinners and vibrant nightlife scene.
Day by day itinerary
Day 1
-
Arrival to Athens
Day 2
-
Athens sightseeing
-
Breakfast at the hotel: Start your day with a delightful breakfast before setting out to explore the wonders of Athens.
Acropolis and museum walking tour: Begin your day with a guided morning walking tour of the Acropolis and the world-famous Acropolis Museum, accompanied by a licensed guide. Your journey starts at the south slope of the Acropolis, where you will explore the Sanctuary and Theater of Dionysus, the birthplace of ancient theater. As you ascend the sacred hill, each step reveals a new wonder, from the monumental Propylaea, the grand entrance to the Acropolis, to the elegant Temple of Athena Nike, dedicated to the goddess of wisdom and victory. The highlight of the visit is the Parthenon, the iconic symbol of classical Greece and one of the most significant monuments in world history. Continue on to the Erechtheion, a temple steeped in mythology, dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. Enjoy the panoramic views over the city and take lots of stunning photos to remember your visit to this iconic monument.
Continue to the Acropolis Museum, where the story-telling brings the ancient ruins to life, offering a deeper understanding of ancient Greek culture and civilization.
Rest of the day: After the tour, enjoy at leisure—browse the shops, continue exploring the vibrant neighborhoods or take a lunch at the various restaurants all over the city. Plenty of choices there for you, either you choose Greek cuisine, international or ethnic from various countries including yours. We can give you some good tips and advice, whatever your choice!
Evening: In the evening, join the vibrant nightlife at the various hotspots in the city center or head to the Athens Riviera coastline for a leisurely walk and a romantic dinner by the sea.
Overnight accommodation is in Athens on a bed and breakfast basis.
Optional :
* For those seeking an extended experience of the city, you may opt for a five-hour guided Athens city tour by bus. This panoramic journey includes the most celebrated landmarks of the capital, from bustling Syntagma Square and the imposing Hellenic Parliament to the historic Panathenaic Stadium, the site of the first modern Olympic Games.
* Another option is the Benaki museum of Greek Culture, housed in one of the most beautiful neoclassical buildings in Athens, near the National Garden and the Hellenic Parliament. The museum houses a unique exhibition on Greek culture arranged from prehistorical times to the 20th century and many artifacts will make you relate to the history and culture of your own country. If you choose to visit only one museum during your stay in Greece, then Benaki museum is a very good choice for you.
-
Day 3
-
Santorini at leisure
- Breakfast at the hotel: Enjoy a hearty breakfast before beginning your scenic journey to the Cyclades gem.Depending on your preference and availability, you will either take a short flight or a ferry ride from Athens to the island of Santorini. A private transfer will take you either to the airport or to the port respectively, ensuring a seamless travel experience. Upon arrival in Santorini, another private transfer will take you to your hotel for check-in.
Rest of the day: After check-in, the afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. Wander through the enchanting villages of Fira, Firostefani and Imerovigli with their whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking caldera views. The overwhelming beauty of the place is what makes Santorini a world-class destination!
Evening: As sunset time approaches, head to Oia, one of the most photographed spots in the world to enjoy the breataking sunset views. Take your own photos for your glamorous Instagram check-in. Then, savor a romantic dinner overlooking the sea and discover the vibrant nightlife that makes Santorini one of the most unforgettable destinations in Greece.
Overnight accommodation is in Santorini on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 4
-
Santorini activities
-
-
Breakfast at the hotel: Start your day with a delicious breakfast before setting out on a full-day sightseeing tour of this stunning island.
Half day tour of the island: Explore the rich history and charm of Santorini as you visit traditional villages, volcanic beaches, and iconic landmarks. Discover the Akrotiri archaeological site, a Minoan Bronze Age settlement buried by volcanic ash in the 17th century BCE. Continue to the quaint village of Emporio, stop at Perissa Beach, the island’s famous black sand beach and experience the island’s world-renowned wine culture.
Sunset cruise with BBQ dinner: In the afternoon embark on a charming wooden sailing boat and experience a calm and romantic trip! The cruise takes you to the island of Nea Kameni for a hike up to the volcano if you wish and to the volcanic thermal springs. The peaceful atmosphere and gentle rocking of the boat provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable getaway, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this iconic sunset and volcanic landscape.
Overnight accommodation is in Santorini on a bed and breakfast basis.
-
-
Day 5
-
Departure
-
- Breakfast at the Hotel: Take an early morning breakfast, before a private transfer takes you to the Santorini airiport. Departure: Take an early morning flight to Athens and from there, go transit to your international flight back home. Bid farewell with the memories of an amazing 6 days trip at the most iconic destinations of Greece, worth remembering for a lifetime!
- Customizable Private Tours: All our Greece private tours are fully customizable. If you wish to extend your stay or focus on special interests such as Greek food and wine tasting, family-friendly activities, culinary lessons, or in-depth history tours, we can create a tailor-made itinerary just for you. Together, we will design your perfect Greek holiday, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable journey through Greece’s most beautiful and historic destinations.
-
What is included
- 2 private transfers from Athens International Airport to the Athens City Hotel for the inbound flight and from Santorini hotel to the Santorini airport for the outbound flight.
- 2 private transfers from/to hotel-airport (or port) for the Santorini trip.
- 4 nights’ accommodation at your selected category.
- An Acropolis and Acropolis museum walking tour.
- A half day tour to Santorini island by A/C modern vehicle.
- An afternoon cruise in Santorini by wooden boat or catamaran.
- Meals: 4 Breakfasts, 1 BBQ dinner.
- Insurance against fraud related to your bookings through Yona Travel.
What is excluded
- International and domestic flight(s) or ferries. It is recommended that the domestic flights to and from Santorini airport are booked together with the international flights with coordinated timings on departure. We could include to the package the flights/ferries as an additional arrangement and cost.
- Visa procedure and fees.
- Travel insurance.
- Entry tickets to Acropolis and Acropolis museum. As some clients prefer to follow the walking tour but skip the entry to the sites, we do not include them in the package. In case that you wish to entry, we can purchase the tickets for you. The amounts per person are: €30 for the Acropolis site and €20 for the Acropolis museum).
- Entry tickets to any other sites or museums.
- Any pre and post stays.
- Optional activities upon request.
- Gratuities, tips and personal expenditure of any kind.
- Hotel “Climate change resilience” tax, paid by the client on the spot at the hotels. The amounts are:
- o 5 star hotel: 15 euros per room/per night.
- o 4 star hotel: 10 euros per room/per night.
- o 3 star hotel: 5 euros per room/per night.
Map
FAQs
-
When is the best time to travel for this tour?
The main touristic period of Greece is April– October. April-June and September is the most comfortable time to travel, as the weather is mild and the places are not yet crowded. The peak season is July – August, where most touristic spots are more crowded and pricey. Consider travelling in the winter months, if you prefer less crowds and you are budget minded.
-
What is the weather year around?
Greece enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it a year-round destination with diverse weather depending on the season. In summer (June to August) it is hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). In spring (March to May) and in autumn (September to October) it is mild and pleasant, with temperatures that gradually rise and fall respectively, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F) and a few rainy days. Great for both beach holidays and cultural exploration, with fewer crowds than in summer. In winter (November to February) it is cool and rainy on the mainland, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). The islands can be quiet, and many tourist spots may close, but it’s a peaceful time for exploring cities like Athens.
-
How fit do I need to be to do this tour and what precautions I should take?
There is no special difficulty in this tour, however, summer heat in Greece might be challenging if you’re not properly prepared. Here’s some essential travel advice to stay safe and comfortable:
-
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeinated drinks, as they can dehydrate you.
- Wear a Hat and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the harsh sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat. A hat will shield your face and neck from sunburn. Also, wear UV-protection sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful rays, especially when spending time at the beach or sightseeing outdoors.
- Use Sunscreen: The Greek sun is strong, so apply sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30 or higher) and reapply every few hours, particularly if you’re swimming. Focus on areas like your face, neck, and shoulders.
- Seek Shade: If you’re sightseeing or walking around, take breaks in the shade during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM). Many cafes and restaurants offer shaded terraces, which can be a great place to rest.
- Dress Lightly: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. This will help keep your body cool and reduce the risk of heatstroke or heat exhaustion.
- Avoid the Midday Heat: If possible, plan your outdoor activities like sightseeing and hiking in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. The middle of the day can be uncomfortably hot, especially in the cities and islands.
- Be Careful with Water: Tap water is safe to drink in most parts of Greece, but if you’re staying on an island or in more remote areas, bottled water is recommended. Also, ensure that you drink plenty of water before and after swimming to stay hydrated.
By following these tips, you can enjoy Greece’s summer beauty while staying safe and healthy. Don’t forget to listen to your body—if you feel faint or dizzy, find shade and drink water immediately.
-
-
Are there any festivals worth visiting at the tour's locations?
Both Athens and Santorini, like any place in Greece offer festivals that showcase their history, culture, and traditions, making them fantastic destinations for cultural enthusiasts year-round.
All over Greece, there are 3 major festive seasons related to religion and going beyond that to the culture and tradition. This is Christmas and New Year in December, Easter in April (usually, it is not a fixed date but is always on Sunday and in Spring) and the celebration for Virgin Mary on 15 August. There are also 2 national days with school and military parades in all cities (25 March and 28 October). Halloween celebration is in February. Everywhere in Greece these festivals and celebrations are iconic and joyous!
In addition to these festivals, one of the most celebrated events is the Athens & Epidaurus Festival (June to August), a grand cultural event that features performances of ancient Greek theater, classical music, and modern dance at iconic venues like the Herodeion ancient theater on the side of the Acropolis hill and the Epidaurus Theater, in about 2 hrs driving distance from Athens. To attend a performance of this festival is a truly amazing experience to cherish for a lifetime!
In Santorini, if you visit in August, attend the Ifestia Festival (Volcano Festival). It features a reenactment of a volcanic eruption with fireworks and a series of events, concerts and dance performances. In September the International Music Festival welcomes artists from the international music scene.
Keep in touch with YONA TRAVEL for updated information about festivals and events during your vacation. Also, check our Blog with posts about the festivals and celebrations around Greece.
-
Is there any special dress code?
Generally in Greece there is not a special dress code and you can just follow your own style. Only religious places request modest dressing with covered shoulders and knees, but most of them provide with their own skirts and pashminas to help you cover, if necessary.
For the summer season, a travel advice is that you dress lightly with loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen, a hat and comfortable shoes to help you keep comfortable in the long days of sightseeing and your body cool and protected from heat exhaustion. Sunglassees and sun protection cream are highly recommended too.
-
How much should I tip for a service?
There is not a standard rule and it is not compulsory. People tend to tip around 10-15% of the service price. Maybe, the exact amount depends on the place, occasion, order size and how much you needed or enjoyed the service.
