Greek Islands: Athens & island-hopping by ferry
Indulge in this seaside adventure around the Greek islands. Island-hop the playground of the Greek gods, through whitewashed villages and rugged landscapes, over golden sand beaches and across the azure waters of the Aegean.
From £1675 (Maximum group size 12)
Saunter through vineyards and olive groves scattered among Byzantine churches and dine on fresh seafood under the golden Mediterranean sun. Discover the myths and legends of Mykonos and Ios, quaff wine renowned to cure broken hearts in Naxos and round off this Cyclades adventure with a visit to the mighty ruins of Athens.
Summary Itinerary
The newly renovated Apollo Hotel benefits from a great location just of Metaxourghio Square on Achilleas Street at the gateway to Athens. Larissa rail station is nearby, as is the downtown centre of Omonia. The Apollo is a 3 star standrad central hotel with 51 rooms. All rooms have private facilities. There is a Bar & Restaurant and the Roof Garden with a breathtaking view of the Acropolis.
Day 1
Athens: Take time to explore the ancient Acropolis and the original Olympic stadium. Perhaps dine on traditional Greek cuisine and end the day with a quick nip of ouzo.
Days 2-3
Syros: Follow the footpaths of Syros through small villages and watch out for the isolated monuments scattered across the landscape.
Days 4-5
Mykonos: Saunter among bronzed bodies on the beach or discover secluded seaside hideaways out of town. Explore labyrinthine streets in the main village and head to the nearby island of Delos, the mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
Days 6-8
Santorini: Located on the edges of an enormous caldera, Santorini is famed for its whitewashed buildings and black sand beaches. Take the opportunity to rub shoulders with the locals and feast on fresh seafood as the sun melts into the ocean at Oia.
Days 9-10
Ios: Winding past characteristic Aegean architecture, the narrow paths of 'the village' are blissfully free of cars. Follow stairs down to remote beaches or climb to the top of the hill in Hora for panoramic views.
Day 11-12
Naxos: Entwined with legends of racy romanticism, Naxian wine is reputed to be the antidote to a broken heart. Hike between villages past Byzantine churches and enjoy free time to explore the residential paths of the Kastro.
Day 13
Paros: Known for its translucent white marble, fertile vineyards and gardens of basil and honeysuckle, the rugged beauty of this volcanic island is evident from all angles. Enjoy free time frolicking in the Aegean Sea.
Days 14-15
Athens: Return to Athens and toast the conclusion of this Cycladean odyssey.
What price includes
- Trip accompanied by a group leader
- Chora walk
- Hiking on Naxos & Syros
- Half-day trip to the island of Delos
- Hotels (14 nights)
- Carbon emissions offset: 164 kgs per person
Location
Plan your journey by train
Meeting point:
Hotel Apollo, Athens
Athens Larissa station
Transfer to meeting point:
Guests make their own way to meeting point
The start point Hotel Apollo is a 10 minute walk or 5 minute taxi ride from the Athens Larissa station.
How to get there:
Train from London to Athens
Plan your journey by train
Finish point:
Hotel Apollo, Athens
Athens Larissa station
Transfer to finish point:
Guests make their own way to station
The end point Hotel Apollo is a 10 minute walk or 5 minute taxi ride from the Athens Larissa station.
How to get back:
Train from Athens to London
