Active in the Cyclades

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival 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.

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

   

   Keep Active by the Beach

   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.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First 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

   

   Byzantine Way Private Hiking Tour with Transfer

   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

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

   

   Explore The Surroundings

   Boasting a prime location in the heart of the Cyclades Islands, Paros is the ideal base from where to explore other lesser-known or super-famous islands nearby. Neighboring Antiparos feels like the younger sister of Paros, only less crowded. Antiparos beaches are sandy with crystal clear waters. Most of them are within walking distance of Chora, the island’s capital, while others, more secluded ones, can be reached by boat. On the southern side of Antiparos, you’ll find Antiparos Cave, the most impressive place to visit on the island. The small, uninhabited island of Delos is home to one of the most magnificent archaeological sites in Greece. The excavations on the island are among the most extensive in the Mediterranean. Last but not least, from Paros, you can enjoy a day trip to the indisputable queen of the Greek Islands, the vibrant and cosmopolitan Mykonos.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 8 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Paros

   

   Northern Antiparos Private Hiking Tour with Transfer

   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

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Panteronisia Island Private Half-Day Sailing Tour

   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

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

4. Day 4 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.

   

   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

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Naxos

   

   Kayaking at Sea Group Tour

   This thrilling sea-based kayak adventure begins at the picturesque Kalantos Beach, 43 km from Naxos Town. After a 30-minute briefing on kayak use, you'll paddle eastward to the enchanting Rina's Cave. At a relaxed pace, you'll enjoy the fascinating geology, Cycladic landscapes, and turquoise waters, with stops at secluded beaches for swimming, snorkeling, and cliff jumping. Throughout the tour, your experienced guide ensures a safe and personalized experience, making this a unique and unforgettable way to explore Naxos.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 7 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Full-Day Catamaran Group Cruise

   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

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

6. Day 6 Your Second Full Day in Naxos

   

   Naxos E-Mountain Biking Private Tour

   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 : 4 to 5 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Inland Naxos: Traditional Villages Group Hike

   Discover Naxos on a scenic group hike through traditional villages, ancient ruins, and lush citrus groves. Marvel at the mysterious Kouros statues, follow centuries-old footpaths, and climb to Apano Kastro for breathtaking Aegean views. End the day with a taste of Naxos’ famous Kitron liqueur and an optional meal at a charming local taverna.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 5 hours 30 minutes

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

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

   

   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.

   “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.

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

   

   Get Your Adrenaline Pumping

   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

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

8. Day 8 Your First Full Day in Santorini

   

   Premium Group Catamaran Cruise

   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

   Included in your vacation package price

9. Day 9 Your Second Full Day in Santorini

   

   Sunset Jeep Small Group Tour

   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

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Scenic Hikes from Shore to Springs

   If you're looking to stay active, we recommend hiking. Our favorite trail runs for 11km (6.5 miles) between Fira and Oia, and we're sure you'll enjoy every minute of it. On the way, you'll pass through the beautiful towns of Firostefani and Imerovigli. If you're looking for more of a challenge, head from the village of Pyrgos, through Santorini's highest point (home to the Prophet Elias Holy Monastery), and on to ancient Thira. For a more rough and ready path, walk to the Old Port, where you can hop aboard a boat tour that will take you across the caldera to the volcano on Nea Kameni. A spectacular hike up over this dormant mountain is moderately challenging but worth the effort for its breathtaking views. Back on the boat, you can circle to the other side of the volcano, where your weary legs will relish a chance to soak in the thermal hot springs at Palia Kameni before looping back to Fira.

   • Activity Level : Strenuous
   • Duration : 5 hours

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

10. Day 10 Departure Day

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