Active in the Cyclades

10 Days / 9 Nights

Paros, Naxos, Santorini

from$2,750 per person

Average Guest Rating 4.9 / 5

From couples in love to families traveling with children to solo wanderers, Greece is the ideal destination for everyone. But did you know that Greece can also be an adventurer's dream come true? If you're looking for an adrenaline-filled vacation combined with scenic landscapes, an active trip to the Cyclades is a must. In Paros, you'll be amazed by the wide array of watersports on offer, while the island is also a hiker's heaven, home even to a medieval-themed route, the famous Byzantine Way. The nearby island of Antiparos also promises unforgettable experiences as you can hike or cycle along its scenic trails and rugged coastline. From there, the adventure continues in Naxos where you can try sea kayaking on the island's turquoise waters. Its mountainous terrain renders Naxos ideal for mountain biking too, while for a more laid-back activity, a catamaran cruise can never be a bad idea. Your trip ends in Santorini, where you'll have the opportunity to hike along the rim of the caldera, go diving, or even rock climbing, catching spectacular views as you go.
One of our team members in Greece will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best this country has to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.

3 Nights in Paros

3 Nights in Paros

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.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Paros

Upon arrival to Paros' airport, a driver will meet you and take you to your accommodations.

Keep Active by the Beach

Suggestion to explore on your own

Paros has an ideal location and weather for water sports, whether relaxing or adrenaline-pumping. Golden Beach held the Windsurfing World Championships for years and still attracts windsurfing aficionados. Still, the island is also great for surfing, kiteboarding, kayaking, waterskiing, and scuba diving, with certified trainers and rentals available from Golden Beach and New Golden Beach to Santa Maria.

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Paros

Paros Mountain Horse Riding Group Experience

Included in your vacation package price.

Discover the unrivaled beauty of Paros on this exclusive horse-riding mountain adventure. You will traverse easy-to-ride winding paths through the island's captivating landscape, which provides unparalleled panoramic vistas of Paros' stunning scenery. As the journey unfolds, immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance of returning along a coastal trail, where the gentle waves create the perfect backdrop for a serene ride. Don't let this opportunity pass you by—seize the chance to uncover the enchanting charm of Paros from a truly unique perspective.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

Every Day a Different Beach

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

Byzantine Way Private Hiking Tour with Transfer

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Embark on this popular hiking route, a fairly easy circular path that begins at Lefkes, the village that once served as Paros' capital, then takes you through the island's unspoiled landscape. Enjoy the countryside at its purest, as you follow the Byzantine Way, a stone-paved footpath linking the island's most important medieval landmarks and settlements and originally meant for use by donkeys. You'll take in spectacular views, visiting a fortified 17th century monastery along the way.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 4 hours

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Paros

Northern Antiparos Private Hiking Tour with Transfer

Included in your vacation package price.

Enjoy an easy coastal hike along the wild and beautiful northern shore of Antiparos (the island just off the western shore of Paros), as well as a tour of Antiparos' eponymous main village. After a five-minute ferry ride, you'll head to Antiparos' northern tip, passing sandy beaches, rocky shores, and impressive cliffs, taking in impressive views of Paros and nearby islets. Next you'll head into town, for a short tour of the village of Antiparos. You'll visit its small but picture-perfect 14th century Venetian fortified portion, and have the option to visit its folklore museum. You'll then enjoy a swim in the shallow emerald waters of the sandy, shaded Psaralyki Beach, 500 meters away.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 4 hours 30 minutes

Panteronisia Island Private Half-Day Sailing Tour

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Embark on a voyage to the mesmerizing blue lagoon of Panteronisia Island, situated just off the captivating coast of Paros. Delight in the opportunity to immerse yourself in the pristine, crystal-clear waters, inviting you to indulge in a refreshing swim and discover the wonders of snorkeling. Let the tranquil beauty of this island oasis captivate your senses as you create memories in the embrace of the Aegean's azure splendor.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 4 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Traveling to Naxos by Ferry

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.

We also offer the following excursions in Paros

Antiparos Island Private Tour

Light6 hours

Antiparos and Despotiko Group Cruise

Easy7 hours

Authentic Greek Cuisine Group Cooking Class

Easy5 hours

Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Group Cruise

Light10 hours

3 Nights in Naxos

3 Nights in Naxos

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.

Day 4

Day 4 - Arrival in Naxos

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

Beaches for All Tastes

Suggestion to explore on your own

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.

Day 5

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Naxos

Kayaking at Sea Group Sunset Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Join this enchanting kayaking adventure to experience Naxos at sunset from a unique perspective. After a 30-minute briefing on kayak use, you'll depart from Saint John’s Beach near Chora with your experienced guides. You'll paddle around the peninsula, swim, and capture underwater beauty with a provided camera. A highlight is kayaking around the iconic Temple of Apollo, which offers one of Greece's most enchanting sea views, especially at sunset.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

Full-Day Catamaran Group Cruise

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Explore Naxos and its neighbors aboard a catamaran. Step aboard, 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

Day 6

Day 6 - Your Second Full Day in Naxos

Naxos E-Mountain Biking Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

On this unforgettable cycling tour along the enchanting west coast of Naxos, you'll witness the rugged beauty of the landscape unfold before your eyes. Starting in Naxos town, you head north along the main road, then onto a rural path leading to Ipsilotera's Tower. The journey continues to the picturesque chapel of Prophitis Elias, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. The tour culminates at Skeponi, a deserted village from the 1970s, and a potential refreshing swim during the return journey to Naxos town.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 5 hours

Naxos Rugged Landscapes Private Hike

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

Without any doubt, hiking on Naxos is a fantastic “all five senses” experience! You will experience the rich and magnificient nature of the island and learn about the history and traditions, plants and herbs and their healing powers. And of course, you will enjoy the local cuisine

Activity Level : Strenuous

Duration : 5 hours

Day 7

Day 7 - Traveling to Santorini by Ferry

Today you will travel from Naxos to Santorini by ferry. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations and take you to the port. Then you will take the ferry to Santorini, which takes around 1 hour 30 minutes / 3 hours based on your preferred departure time.

We also offer the following excursions in Naxos

All the Marble Private Tour

Moderate7 hours

Cheese and Wine Trails Private Half-Day Tour

Light5 hours

Cheese, Wine and Sightseeing Private Tour

Light8 hours

Conquering Mount Zas Private Hike Tour

Strenuous4 hours

3 Nights in Santorini

3 Nights in Santorini

“Intelligent adults come here and turn into infants,” Craig Walzer, owner of the Atlantis Bookstore. Santorini is every traveler's dream. The whitewashed houses and blue domed churches perched atop of soaring cliffs, the narrow cobblestone streets and unsurpassed views of crystal-clear blue waters -- these all greet you as you step foot on this fairytale land. Intertwining myth and reality, Santorini is every bit as beautiful as the countless postcards, magazine covers, and Instagram photos claim. The village of Oia is world-famous for its sunset, where thousands of spectators line up every evening to witness the magic as the sun bids farewell to the sky and the canvas lights up in fierce hues. Fortunately, the sunset can be enjoyed from much of the rest of this crescent-shaped island. Santorini is also home to Akrotiri, the Greek take on Pompeii. Inhabited since Neolithic times, this city was built up by the Minoans, a seafaring civilization that predated the ancient Greeks, only to be destroyed in the catastrophic eruption that shaped Santorini, which forms part of a massive volcanic caldera. Covered in ashes for millennia, Akrotiri is still being uncovered. We suggest visiting the neighboring center of the caldera, where you can enjoy hot springs, visit the volcanic crater, and enjoy stunning views of Santorini itself. Santorini’s unique ecology, climate and volcanic ash soil paved the way for a flourishing wine industry. Its indigenous varietals will make your stay even more enjoyable.

Day 7

Day 7 - Arrival in Santorini

Upon arrival to Santorini's port, you'll be taken to your hotel in Fira.

Sea Kayak & Snorkel Group Tour with Lunch/Dinner

Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

If you like to spend your vacation moving at a good pace, you'll appreciate Santorini's many options. If you prefer an adrenaline rush, we recommend parasailing. It's hard to beat the panoramic views available several hundred feet in the air! If water is your element, consider kitesurfing. Monolithos Beach offers the island's best surfing. Santorini's spectacular rock formations and beaches naturally make for great sea kayaking and diving. Finally, we also recommend rock climbing. Skaros Hill offers great views of the caldera and sunset. The rock is easy to find from Imerovigli. Just follow the dirt road uphill from there.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 5 hours

Day 8

Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Santorini

Premium Group Catamaran Cruise

Included in your vacation package price.

Santorini’s volcanic landscape is best explored from the water, so set sail on this top-rated catamaran cruise, which will bring you to the island’s best beaches, viewpoints, and even directly inside the caldera, with a small group of fellow travelers. Along the way, you'll soak in natural hot springs, swim and snorkel off the Red Beach, and take in views of nearby Cyclades islands. An open bar and buffet lunch served right onboard keep you refreshed and energized throughout the voyage.

Activity Level : Easy

Duration : 5 hours

Day 9

Day 9 - Your Second Full Day in Santorini

Sunset Jeep Small Group Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

Explore the unparalleled excitement of the Sunset Jeep Small Group Tour as you journey through Santorini's rugged terrain. Join the convoy for an unforgettable 5-hour expedition, traversing ancient wine trails, uncovering hidden beaches, and marveling at the island's iconic sunset.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 5 hours

Day 10

Day 10 - Departure Day

Today a driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you straight to Santorini's airport.

We also offer the following excursions in Santorini

Anydro Small Group Tour

Light5 hours 30 minutes

Best of Santorini Private Tour

Light5 hours

Caldera Private Hike

Strenuous5 hours

Flying Dress Private Photo Shoot

Light1 hour

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Paros

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Paros Airport - Naoussa Private Transfer

Paros Mountain Horse Riding Group Experience

Northern Antiparos Private Hiking Tour with Transfer

Naoussa - Parikia Port Private Transfer

Paros - Naxos Ferry

Naxos

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Naxos Port Transfer

Kayaking at Sea Group Sunset Tour

Naxos E-Mountain Biking Private Tour

Naxos Port Transfer

Naxos - Santorini Ferry

Santorini

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Santorini Fira Port Transfer

Premium Group Catamaran Cruise

Sunset Jeep Small Group Tour

Santorini Fira Airport Transfer

package excludes:

Flights to and from Europe.
Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website

Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.

Glowing Reviews from Our Guests

4.9 / 5

Average of our Guest's Ratings of vacation packages including these destinations

John, Tammy & Virginia

Maryland

JayWay rocks! We have used JayWay on two separate and very different trips. They always deliver and having a fantastic local contact makes all the difference!

Year : 2024
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Paros, Santorini, Athens
Rating :

5 / 5

Steven, Paula, William & Gloria

California

Jayway plans well and executes well!

Year : 2024
Visited : Portugal, Greece, France
Itinerary : Porto, Santorini, Paros, Athens, Paris
Rating :

5 / 5

Tracy, Thomas & Sandy

Indiana

Had a wonderful time. All attention to details is what we loved. We had private guides for most of the trip and they were outstanding- we had one small hiccup on a pickup to the airport.. our contact person in Italy-Simone - was amazing. I would highly recommend using this service to my friends and family

Year : 2023
Visited : Italy, Greece
Itinerary : Tuscany, Rome, Santorini, Naxos, Athens
Rating :

4.2 / 5

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