Greece Naxos & Santorini Private Adventure Tour
From Ancient Athens to Paradise Islands of the Cyclades
- Available: May, June, September, October
- Activity: Level 3
- Accommodations: Luxury Hotels, Comfortable Hotels
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Group Size:
2-6
Highlights
- Live the dream on this epic Greek odyssey from Athens to the spectacular islands of Naxos and Santorini
- Get active as you explore idyllic villages on foot, kayak to secluded sandy beaches, and tour impressive ancient ruins-including the Acropolis
- Delight in warm Greek hospitality, relax at superb hotels, and savor delicious Mediterranean food and wine
Itinerary
Arrive in Athens
Day 1
Arrive at Athens airport and transfer to your hotel, perfectly located in the heart of the ancient city. Your guide will meet you in the evening for an orientation walk and welcome dinner in Plaka, Athens' historical neighborhood at the foot of the Acropolis.
Accommodation: Royal Olympic Hotel
Accommodation: Divani AcropolisMeals: Dinner
Explore Ancient Athens & Fly to Naxos
Day 2
Rise for an expert-led tour of Athens' most cherished sights including the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian's Arch and Panathinaiko Stadium — the venue for the first Olympic Games. Explore the Acropolis, the impressive ancient citadel built in the 5th century BC, and the fascinating Acropolis Museum. After lunch, take a stroll in the narrow cobblestone streets of the old Plaka neighborhood. Next, it's off to Naxos! Catch an afternoon flight to the largest and lushest of the Cycladic Islands, with its marvelous array of ancient sites, hilltop forts, atmospheric villages, and stunning sandy beaches. Settle into your hotel before exploring Chora's old castle and enjoying sunset views from the ancient Portara (Temple of Apollo).Accommodation: Galaxy Hotel Naxos
Accommodation: Porto Naxos HotelTransportation: 40-minute flight transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Savor Flavors in Naxos with a Food Tour & Cooking Class
Day 3
Today you'll head to picturesque villages in the heart of Naxos to sample the island's unique tastes and flavors. You'll have a chance to make a full Naxian meal in a cooking class with recipes handed down from generation to generation. Next, take a short ride to Kaloxylos, known for its century-old olive trees, classical architecture, and cats! Enjoy a warm welcome and roll up your sleeves for a hands-on Naxian cooking experience. Savor Mediterranean culinary delights as you sample four delicious courses. Return to your hotel by the beach tonight.
Accommodation: Galaxy Hotel Naxos
Accommodation: Porto Naxos HotelMeals: Breakfast, Lunch
Walk the Naxos Village Trail
Day 4
Explore the heart of Naxos on a pretty trail that links together picturesque mountain villages. Starting at Kouros of Melanes, an age-old statue lying under trees, follow paths to Kouros of Potamia and the old village of Ano Potamia. After a refreshing stop at the village spring, hike on to Apano Kastro (Upper Castle) and enjoy panoramic views of Naxos and the surrounding villages. Continue through Tsikalario to Halki, where you'll visit a small distillery that produces Naxos' specialty citron liqueur - Kitron. End your hike in Chalkio before returning to your hotel.
Accommodation: Galaxy Hotel Naxos
Accommodation: Porto Naxos HotelActivity: 4 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 912' elevation gain and 666' loss
Meals: Breakfast
Take a Boat Ride to Santorini & Go Wine Tasting
Day 5
After breakfast, embark on a boat ride to the stunning crescent-shaped island of Santorini. As you pull into port, you'll be awestruck by the spectacular beauty of this volcanic island, with its dazzling whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches. After settling into your hotel, discover Santorini's legendary wineries and traditional cellars on a unique wine-tasting journey.
Accommodation: El Greco Santorini
Accommodation: Santorini PalaceTransportation: 2-hour boat transfer
Meals: Breakfast
Discover Santorini by Sea Kayak
Day 6
Experience the wonders of Santorini from the water on a full-day sea kayaking adventure! From the serene black-sand beach of Mesa Piglia you'll paddle along the coast passing interesting rock formations and cave houses. Enter the iconic sea caves of Black Mountain and pass the Akrotiri Lighthouse - one of the oldest lighthouses in Greece. Paddle east, passing the vibrant cliffs of White Beach and Red Beach. Take a break at secluded Kampia Beach, where you can snorkel and explore marine life in the Aegean's crystalline waters. Return to Mesa Pigadia and enjoy a delicious traditional Greek lunch at a local taverna. Gather again tonight for a special farewell dinner.
Accommodation: El Greco Santorini
Accommodation: Santorini PalaceActivity: 5 hours/5 miles sea kayaking
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Caldera Trail & Return to Athens
Day 7
Follow paths along the rim of a volcanic caldera on today's epic Caldera Trail hike. Along the way you'll pass the stunning whitewashed village of Imerovigli and the iconic Prophet Elias chapel, perched high atop a mountain. Delight in panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and Mediterranean islands. Get ready for Instagram-worthy pictures as you approach Oia, a splendid village - possibly the most beautiful one on the whole island! Enjoy the 360-degree views of nearby villages and the sea. In the late afternoon, return to Athens.
Accommodation: Sofitel Athens Airport
Activity: 4-5 hours/7 miles moderate hiking
Meals: Breakfast
Depart from Athens
Day 8
Bid farewell to Greece as you transfer back to Athens airport.
Meals: Breakfast
Dates & Prices
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
Go Private
Go Private
Gather your favorite travel companions to share an MT Sobek adventure on an easy-to-book Private departure.
Call or email us to get the ball rolling.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Looking for a private family adventure?
This trip can accommodate guests with a minimum age of 16.
Private Trip Pricing:
2023 Pricing
2 to 3 guests from $6,395 per person double occupancy
4 to 5 guests from $5,395 per person double occupancy
6 to 8 guests from $4,895 per person double occupancy
2024 Pricing
2 to 3 guests from $6,995 per person double occupancy
4 to 5 guests from $5,695 per person double occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
Additional Costs:
Internal Air and Ferry: $600
Private pricing excludes potential additional costs such as internal airfare, single supplement, or any park fees that may be required for the trip.
*Private trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit.
Make Your Own Dates in These Months
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May, June, September, October
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
Start PlanningInclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Airport transfers on day-1
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted in the Trip Planner)
- Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage
Price Does Not Include
- International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
- Internal flights and ferry crossings ($600 subject to change)
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Anastasia B.
Anastasia holds a degree in Tourism Management from the Technological Educational Institution in Athens. Her passion for travel and adventurous experiences has taken her all over Europe including Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. When she isn't guiding, Anastasia enjoys outdoor activities like jogging, hiking and cycling. Anastasia is fluent in English and Greek, and is tremendously knowledgeable, professional, and friendly.
Archelaos B.
Archelaos grew up in Athens and his love of the outdoors, particularly plant life, eventually led him to catch the travel bug and explore the world through hiking, rock climbing, and mountain biking. He is fluent in Greek, English and German and keenly lists his top priority as creating safe and joyful experiences for all MT Sobek travelers on their adventures through Greece.
Alexander G.
Alexander studied Cultural Management at the University of the Aegean and then specialized in film making at Prague Film School. His combined passion for nature and Greek cultural heritage, led him to become an adventure travel guide in Greece. For more than 10 years, he has professionally trained and worked as a guide, and is adept at rafting, sea kayaking, river trekking, and hiking. Alexander has excellent communication skills and enjoys connecting with people from around the world.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Easy to moderate hiking on gently rolling terrain, including marble and dirt paths, for up to 4 hours per day. The 5-hour sea kayaking includes stop offs at secluded beaches. Expect some uneven paths and cobblestone streets when touring cultural sites and villages.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 4
4 hours/4.5 miles hiking with 912' elevation gain and 666' loss
Day 6
5 hours/5 miles sea kayaking
Day 7
4-5 hours/7 miles moderate hiking
Accommodations
Expect mild and sunny weather with temperatures between 55-75°F. Water temperatures are chillier in spring and warmer in fall.
Royal Olympic Hotel
The five-star Royal Olympic is an elegant hotel in the heart of Athens. Its comfortable rooms are stylishly decorated and come with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy access to the swimming pool, gym and to the Roof Garden Restaurant & Bar, which offers an ultimate dining experience with a spectacular view of the Acropolis.
Divani Acropolis
The Divani Palace Acropolis is an iconic hotel with breathtaking views of the world-famous monument. Its luxurious rooms combine elegance, style, and comfort with soft neutral palettes and a range of modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi. It's the perfect place to experience the city's fascinating history — and feel part of it.
Galaxy Hotel Naxos
The pretty Galaxy Hotel is ideally situated just a few steps from the spectacular Blue Flag beach of Saint George and a short walk from the old town. Enjoy modern comforts in one of its 54 stylish rooms and sip a refreshing cocktail or coffee by the pool. Indulge in idyllic surroundings and moments of pure relaxation in beautiful Naxos.
El Greco Santorini
Near the center of Santorini, El Greco Resort & Spa is the perfect place to unwind. Opportunities for poolside lounging abound; there are five outdoor pools, an indoor one, two open-air Jacuzzis, and an adult-only spa. The traditional whitewashed buildings have more than 200 bedrooms, all showcasing minimalist Santorini-style decor, as well as amenities like A/C, satellite TVs and mini-fridges.
Sofitel Athens Airport
Located directly cross from Athens International Airport, this upscale hotel is 7.5 miles the center of Athens. Guestrooms feature free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and minifridges, as well as designer toiletries, walk-in showers, and tea and coffeemakers. There are 2 bars and 2 restaurants. There's also a spa area with a sauna, an exercise room, a hair salon and an indoor heated pool.
Porto Naxos Hotel
Guestrooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs, as well as minibars, safes, and tea and coffeemaking facilities. All feature private balconies or terraces.There is a wine cellar, and a chic restaurant with a terrace. Other amenities include an outdoor pool and a tennis court, in addition to a gym and a sauna. Spa treatments can be arranged.
Santorini Palace
The Santorini Palace, a perfect stop on your Santorini Island adventure, is 10 minutes from the capital of Santorini. Enjoy the hotel's spacious rooms, featuring air conditioning, a satellite, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, balcony, and much more. While you are there, dine at the onsite restaurant or head to the onsite gym. Relax and re-energize at the pool.
Weather
Enjoy comfortable accommodations in spectacular locations, from a luxury hotel with Acropolis views to a beachside haven in Naxos and a charming resort in Santorini.
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
You will be met by a MT Sobek representative at the Athens International Airport "Eleftherios Venizelos" (ATH) on Day 1, and transferred to the hotel in Athens.
Where does the trip end?
The group will transfer to the Santorini Airport for our flight to Athens. The trip will conclude at the Athens International Airport.
Is this trip suitable for a beginner kayaker?
Sea kayaking experience is helpful, but is not mandatory. Our guides will conduct a brief demo, and assist all guests both experienced and new.
What kind of ferry will we use to transfer between islands?
The distance between Naxos and Santorini is not far, so an high-speed boat will not be necessary. Boats are spacious and equipped with comfortable seats for all passengers.
Is this trip suitable for vegetarians?
There is a wide variety of vegetarian options to enjoy in Greece. Flavorful salads, fresh cheese, and many traditional dishes made with eggplant, broad beans, tomatoes, savory pastry, and more.
Is the hiking strenuous?
No. The hikes on this tour are not strenuous. However, the terrain can be rocky and uneven at times, and therefore we highly recommend that you bring hiking poles for stability.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
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Guest Reviews
"We have traveled throughout the world, but never experienced a level of service and attention to detail as we did with MT Sobek."
Dennis G.
MT Sobek Guest
"MT Sobek took care of everything for our extended family vacation. Not a hiccup in the planning, the itinerary, the lodging or the guide. Everything in life should be so easy."
Kathy J.
MT Sobek Guest