Aegean Escape: Beaches, Boats & Island Life

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Athens

   Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.

   Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

   

   Love at First Sight

   Athens has plenty of rooftop venues to take advantage of the opportunity to see the Acropolis shining at night. They have become popular hubs for nightlife among locals. One of our favorite rooftop bars is POINT A (Acropolis Point), which is the only bar that provides views of both the Acropolis and the modern elegant lines of the Acropolis Museum, lit beautifully at night. POINT A has a relaxed vibe and Greek cuisine with a twist. It’s perfect for couples and even families or groups of friends. If you happen to stay around the Monastiraki district, you should definitely visit A for Athens cocktail bar and restaurant, a popular venue among locals. Hytra and GB Roof Garden are full-on luxury restaurants and bars that can provide perfect romantic evenings. We guarantee that if you spend your first night dining at one of those places, you will quickly fall in love with the mind-blowing views and lively city.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Traveling to Milos by Ferry / Arrival in Milos

   

   Milos awaits you today! A driver will pick you up from your accommodation to take you to the port of Piraeus, where you'll catch the ferry to Milos. The journey takes about three hours and 30 minutes.

   Tucked away in the Western Cyclades subgroup, Milos Island owes its otherworldly lunar landscapes to its volcanic past. Alongside its dramatic rock formations, Milos is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, century-old catacombs, and easy-going vibes. Unlike other Greek Islands, Milos remains irresistibly unspoiled, a haven of insanely blue waters, whitewashed villages, and cotton candy sunsets. With several remote beaches and sea caves to explore, Milos is also the ideal destination for sailing and cruising enthusiasts.

   Upon arrival to Milos Airport, a driver will meet you to take you to your accommodation.

   

   Explore Adamas Town

   Embrace the charm of your first night as Adamas unveils its secrets, whispering tales of history in every cobblestone and painting the night with hues of wonder. Let the gentle breeze carry you through the enchanting streets, where dreams take flight and memories are etched in the canvas of the night. Unveil the mysteries of Adamas under the celestial canopy – a symphony of lights, laughter, and everlasting moments awaits your exploration. Tonight, Adamas welcomes you to a world where every step is a dance, and every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Your First Full Day in Milos

   

   Swim at Sarakiniko Beach

   Today, you will have an unforgettable journey to see some fantastic beaches. You will start this tour from Adamas, heading to Sarakiniko as your first stop—a gem recently acclaimed by ISLANDS magazine as one of the world's top 30 undiscovered beaches. You will spend an hour exploring its pristine shores before meeting with your driver again. Continuing from north to south, you will revel in the scenic drive until you reach Paleochori Beach, where you'll be captivated by panoramic vistas of the Sea of Crete from elevated restaurant vantage points. You will enjoy a leisurely hour and a half to swim, relax, and savor delectable dining options amidst the sandy shores and picturesque white pebbles.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Taste the Local Cuisine

   Renowned for its delectable seafood offerings, Milos boasts a plethora of restaurants dedicated to serving the freshest catches and authentic local cuisine. Indulge your palate in the island's culinary treasures by savoring specialties like succulent octopus, meticulously prepared stuffed vegetables, and the delightful allure of cheese pie. Immerse yourself in a gastronomic journey that captures the essence of Milos, where each bite is a celebration of the island's rich flavors and culinary traditions. Let the ambiance of these eateries transport you to a realm where the bounty of the sea and the land harmonize to create a truly unforgettable dining experience.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

4. Day 4 Traveling to Paros by Ferry / Arrival in Paros

   

   Today you will travel from Milos to Paros by ferry. A driver will pick you up at your accommodation to take you to the port. Then, you will take the ferry to Paros. The journey takes about two hours.

   Paros offers a quintessential Greek island experience. Located in the heart of the Cyclades, this fisherman's paradise historically famed for its marble now attracts landlubbers. Paros combines all the necessary elements for a memorable vacation: captivating landscapes, heavenly beaches with turquoise waters, picturesque villages with whitewashed cube houses and colorful shutters framed with beautiful bougainvillea, traditional island flair, and a distinctive character. The town of Parikia is home to the impressive church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani (the Church of a Hundred Doors), one of Greece's main pilgrimage points. Once a quaint fisherman's village, Naoussa is the place to be, offering a more laidback and affordable take on neighboring Mykonos. Naoussa houses narrow maze-like alleyways, cute shops, and a plethora of fish taverns serving fresh food. At night, the picturesque harbor, with its traditional fishing boats, offers a new side, thanks to its bustling nightlife.

   Upon arrival to Paros island you'll be met in the port by our driver who will take you to your accommodation.

   

   Naoussa's Peaceful Atmosphere

   If you haven't walked the white-washed cobblestone alleys of Naoussa's Old Town, you haven't seen the true Paros. The town's narrow maze-like passages may be peaceful and quiet during the hot summer mornings, but as soon as night comes, they're teaming with people and life. Take the opportunity to sit in one of the numerous bars and restaurants that set tables outside to enjoy the island's vibes.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Paros

   

   Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Group Cruise

   Discover the unique charm of Delos and Mykonos on an unforgettable excursion blending history, archaeology, and cosmopolitan allure. Departing at 9:30 AM from Naousa on the "Naxos Star," you’ll reach Delos at 10:20 AM to explore its rich historical sites by yourself, including the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Lions’ Gallery, and the Temple of Leto. After 3 hours on Delos, sail to Mykonos, renowned for its Cycladic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through its narrow streets, visit the iconic windmills, and enjoy the famous "Little Venice" before heading back to Paros, arriving back around 6:20 PM.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 9 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

6. Day 6 Your Second Full Day in Paros

   

   Every Day a Different Beach

   Paros' beaches have plenty of variation, from wide and deep to shallow and sheltered, sandy to rocky, but all are beautiful. One of the most popular is Monastiri Beach, part of Paros Park. Largely protected from the elements, this is an excellent spot for parents with young children (as is the surrounding park). The fishing town of Naoussa's main beach, Piperi, is wide and sandy, hence the quality hotels and villas nearby. Golden Beach draws those with a more active mindset, thanks in part to its summer winds, and has plenty of instructors and rental opportunities for a slew of water sports. Finally, Kolymbithres is home to a beach famous for its shallow, clear waters.
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Traveling to Naxos by Ferry / Arrival in Naxos

   

   Today, the island of Naxos awaits! The ferry ride is fairly brief, 30-60 minutes, depending on which departure you take. We've included a port transfer to get you to the port of Paros in comfort.

   The largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos frequently appears lists of the most authentic Greek islands and for good reason, as it is large enough to not rely solely on tourism. Gracefully lying in the heart of the Aegean, this dazzling Greek jewel is an ideal destination for those who wish to indulge in life's simple pleasures, great food, and gorgeous sandy beaches. What visitors love most about Naxos is the genuine rural charm found in the island’s picturesque mountainous villages, which dot the rugged landscape. Naxos has been the source of quality marble for centuries, and its ancient marble quarries, and their products, are some of the island's many highlights. Naxian marble was used to create the extraordinary sculptures that can be admired on the island of Delos and the archaeological site of Delphi. At sunset, enjoy a leisurely walk along the harbor of Chora (Naxos' old town) towards the island's most imposing landmark: the Portara. This massive marble doorway dates back to 530 B.C. and was built to honor the god of light, Apollo, although it was never fully completed. The myths and legends surrounding the island of Naxos are worth the trip alone. After sunset, head to one of the local tavernas found inside the fortified walls of the Venetian castle, the Kastro.

   Upon arriving at the port, you'll be taken to your accommodations in Naxos.

   

   Portara, the Great Door of Naxos

   Portara is the symbol of the island. If you come to Naxos by ferry, it is one of the first things you see as you approach the island. This marvelous, massive marble door frame is what’s left of a portal to an Ionic temple devoted to Apollo, which started in the 6th century BC but was never finished. It's located on a small promontory overlooking the island of Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. It is a memorable location, and we find it incredibly photogenic at sunset, so we recommend visiting after your first dinner on the island.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

8. Day 8 Your First Full Day in Naxos

   

   Full-Day Catamaran Group Cruise

   Step aboard the catamaran, get acquainted with the rest of the group, enjoy a cup of coffee and get ready for a memorable sail. You'll swim and snorkel in beautiful, secluded beaches and coves, and enjoy a traditional lunch with chilled drinks, including ouzo, raki, and wine. Between the natural beauty and local refreshments, this will be one of the highlights of your trip.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 7 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

9. Day 9 Your Second Full Day in Naxos

   

   Beaches for All Tastes

   Naxos has plenty of beaches, ranging from the convenient and amenity-rich to the remote but untouched and deserted.

   For convenience, Agios Georgios is ideal. It's right on the southern edge of Chora but clean and welcoming.

   One of the most popular beaches is the Blue Flag-certified Agios Prokopios, which is within walking distance of town. Plaka Beach is long and wide, with dunes and just the occasional building beyond, including beach bars, tavernas, and rental places. It's 4km (2.5 miles) long, so it has plenty of room!

   People who prefer their beaches long, deserted, and windswept should go to Mikri Vigla, 10km (6.2 miles) from the town of Naxos.

   The white sandy beach, also known as the Sahara, is open to the Etesian wind, which blows through the Cyclades from the north.

   This produces low, rolling waves and powers the sails and kites of windsurfers and kite-surfers.

   A place to get away from it all is Alyko, which is in a natural reserve in southwestern Naxos and is usually devoid of tourists.
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Naxos Town Group Food Tour

   On this tour, indulge in a culinary adventure, savoring local delights like fine Naxian cheeses paired with wine, traditional Naxian potatoes, and savory phyllo snacks. Traverse from the historical port to the majestic castle, winding through the charming Venetian Old Town adorned with vibrant fruit stands, aromatic herb stalls, and quaint alleyways. Delight in various traditional mezes and local delicacies, all while gaining insights into Naxos's rich culinary heritage and the people behind its regional cuisine.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours and 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

10. Day 10 Traveling to Athens by Airplane / Arrival in Athens

    

    Today a driver will pick you up at your accommodations and take you to the airport for your flight to Athens.

    
    

    Suggested Flight:

    Departure:

    Arrival:

    
    

    Please note that the flight included in your package is in Economy Class (or similar). This includes one cabin bag (17-22lb) and one checked bag (up to 50 lbs) as well as assigned seats. If you’re interested in upgrading to a higher class (which is possible only on certain airlines), just let us know—we’ll be happy to check availability and cost.
Please also keep in mind that the included flight is not flexible, and flight prices are subject to change until the trip is confirmed.

    Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.

    Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your accommodation. The drive takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

11. Day 11 Departure Day

    Today a driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you straight to Athens' airport, which is generally a 30-minute drive, depending on traffic.