One Week in the Greek Islands

Kalimera! Welcome to Greece. Your Greek Island adventure begins in Athens – the capital of Greece – with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight at your hostel. If you arrive early (and it’s recommended that you do – there’s so much to see and do here), why not take a day trip to the Saronic Islands – a stunning archipelago including the car-free island of Hydra. History lovers can walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks and discover the remnants of an empire with a pass into the Acropolis – the ancient citadel with gorgeous views over the city. Tonight, ask your leader where the best place for a gyros is, or head out on a Taste of Athens Urban Adventure to sample some of Athen’s many culinary delights.

Wake up early this morning as you make your way by ferry to Paros in the Aegean Sea. Paros is best known for its beaches, traditional villages and the Panagia Ekatontapiliani – a Byzantine church from the 4th century AD. When you arrive, you’ll have a free day at your leisure to explore, find the perfect swimming spot or just kick back on one of the sandy beaches – Kolymbithres Beach is a good spot to set up for the day, as it’s known for the unique rock formations that create natural swimming coves! Wander around the Cycladic architecture (this whole trip is a photographer's dream), and if you like, gear up for a big night by taking it easy while the sun’s out – Paros is also popular for its vibrant nightlife.

You have the morning free to explore Paros further – maybe take the ferry to Antiparos (the sister island easily reached by a short ferry ride), go kayaking or visit Psaralyki Beach for a morning swim. This little island is also a great spot to pick up local food. After, head back to Paros and rejoin your group for a visit to Lefkes – an enchanting village known for its distinct white and blue architecture, olive groves and pine forests. You’ll enjoy an included group dinner in the village, with options including moussaka, imam eggplants, dolmas with lettuce, Greek salad and more. This is also a great opportunity to rub shoulders with the locals, as this village is less touristy than the rest of the island. 

Take the ferry to Ios – a popular island known for its cliffs that plunge into the sea and its hills peppered with Cycladic architecture and palm trees, idyllic during sunset. When you arrive, maybe head straight for the most visited beach on Ios – Mylopotas Beach – and kick back somewhere in the horseshoe-shaped bay. If crowds aren’t your thing, maybe hit Magganari Beach for a quieter setting. If you’d like to spend your day sightseeing instead, maybe visit Homer’s Tomb (legend says that this is the last resting place of the famous Greek poet) in Plakotos or the Church of Panagia Gremniotissa. Tonight, rejoin your group and walk to the Odysseas Elytis Theatre to watch an epic sunset overlooking the town.

Today is a free day in Ios. Maybe take a boat tour to explore seven different beaches across the island – this tour includes lots of opportunities for swimming and snorkelling! After a day of hitting the sandy shores or wandering around this bucket list destination at your own pace, you might want to explore the nightlife. Go bar hopping with your new travel buddies or meet some new friends along the way at the thriving beach clubs – Ios is popular with a younger crowd, so you’re sure to find a few drinking or dancing buddies to hit the town with and boogie the night away.

This morning, you’ll take a ferry to Santorini – one of the must-see destinations on any Greek Island adventure! Famous for its gorgeous hiking opportunities and countless sunset spots, Santorini is also home to some of the best wines in the country. This island was devastated by a volcanic eruption in the 16th century, the evidence of which now shapes the landscape. Today you might want to explore the two main towns – Fira and Oia – that sit on cliffs above the underwater crater, now home to lava pebble beaches and iconic scenery. Maybe kick back on the volcanic beaches, hit the town for some souvenir shopping or just wander the streets in search of delicious treats, epic photo spots, and the occasional glass of Assyrtiko to refuel. 

In 1500 BC, a volcanic eruption sank the centre of Santorini, forming the awe-inspiring caldera. The spectacular natural beauty of this caldera is what makes Santorini such a special place and this morning, you’ll hike along the crater rim. Walk through little villages, passing cliff faces and gorgeous views along the way. After, you have a free afternoon to explore the island at your own pace. Grab a well deserved bite to eat after the hike – maybe try some of the local tomato fritters or feast on local seafood. Alternatively, just relax on the beach, soaking up the vibes of the sun.

Today is your last day of the trip, and with no further activities planned, you’re free to leave at any time. It’s recommended you stay longer, to really soak up all Santorini has to offer. Maybe take a half-day trip to the volcano and hot springs or explore the town of Imerovigli and the Akrotiri archaeological site – the list goes on! Just speak to your booking agent if you’d like to organise additional accommodation here.