Greece Tinos, Naxos & Santorini Multi-Adventure Tour
Ancient Wonders of the Aegean Sea & Cyclades Islands
Embark on a Greek odyssey brimming with ancient ruins, idyllic villages, soaring peaks, and sweeping coastal vistas. Tour the ancient Acropolis of Athens, one of the world's greatest UNESCO Heritage Sites, then head south to the Cyclades, a group of about 220 islands known for their whitewashed villages, magnificent beaches, and stunning landscapes. Hike village to village on the island of Tinos, and to the top of Mt. Zas, the birthplace of Zeus, on Naxos. Travel to the breathtakingly beautiful island of Santorini to hike its caldera and enjoy a sunset kayak. Along the way, savor homemade meals in the shade of grapevines and enjoy relaxing nights at comfortable hotels full of local character.
Embark on a Greek odyssey brimming with ancient ruins, idyllic villages, soaring peaks, and sweeping coastal vistas. Tour the ancient Acropolis of Athens, one of the world's greatest UNESCO Heritage Sites, then head south to the Cyclades, a group of about 220 islands known for their whitewashed villages, magnificent beaches, and stunning landscapes. Hike village to village on the island of Tinos, and to the top of Mt. Zas, the birthplace of Zeus, on Naxos. Travel to the breathtakingly beautiful island of Santorini to hike its caldera and enjoy a sunset kayak. Along the way, savor homemade meals in the shade of grapevines and enjoy relaxing nights at comfortable hotels full of local character.
Hike on three of Greece's most spectacular islands and enjoy dazzling views of the majestic Aegean Sea
[Description] => Hike on three of Greece's most spectacular islands and enjoy dazzling views of the majestic Aegean Sea
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Travel to the romantic island of Santorini and take in storybook sunsets while kayaking along volcanic cliffs
[Description] => Travel to the romantic island of Santorini and take in storybook sunsets while kayaking along volcanic cliffs
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Enjoy delectable homemade meals, sample traditional island liqueurs, and discover Greece with experienced local guides
Your MT Sobek trip leader will welcome you at Athens International Airport and transfer you to the hotel. Meet your group at 6:30pm in the hotel lobby, then set off on a walking tour of the historic Plaka neighborhood, famous for its labyrinthine streets and neoclassical architecture. At 8pm, savor your first taste of Greece at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Royal Olympic Hotel
Activity: 1-hour walking tour
Meals: Dinner
Discover Athens and Travel to Tinos
Day 2
Explore Athens, once a powerful city-state and today the capital of Greece. Take the millennia-old journey up the hill to tour the Acropolis, the ancient citadel, and admire the Parthenon temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena. Marvel at the archeological treasures at the New Acropolis Museum, then tour the city on wheels to see the temple of Zeus, the Hellenic Parliament, and the Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted the first Olympic Games. After a lunch in the port of Rafina, hop on a high-speed catamaran to Tinos, your first stop in the Cyclades.
Today, hike and explore the enchanting island of Tinos. Starting from the village of Volax, which sits nestled in a lunar landscape of large granite boulders, make your way to the tiny hillslope village of Koumaros. Refresh with a traditional Greek coffee that will power your climb to Xobourgo hill with its splendid vistas over the Aegean Sea. Descend to the seaside village of Kionia and relax over a leisurely lunch. Then take a dip next to the remains of the ancient temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea. This evening, enjoy dinner in Tinos.
Accommodation: Onar Hotel and Suites
Activity: 5.5 miles/4 hours hiking with elevation gain of 820' and elevation loss of 1,700'
Transportation: 50-minute round-trip transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Kouros Statues & Kitron Liqueur on Naxos
Day 4
Bid farewell to Tinos and take a morning ferry to Naxos island, the largest of the Cyclades. Settle in at the hotel, then head out for a hike to two monumental statues: 20-foot Kouros of Melanes and the 16-foot Kouros of Potamia. Refresh by a spring in Ano Potamia village, then trek to Apano Kastro (Upper Castle) to admire the marvelous panoramas of Naxos. Stop at a small Kitron distillery and enjoy a tasting of this local citron liqueur. Wrap up the day with an amazing homemade dinner under the shade of grapevines.
Accommodation: Porto Naxos Hotel Accommodation: Naxos Resort Beach Hotel
Activity: 4.5 miles/4 hours hiking with elevation gain of 912' and elevation loss of 666'; optional liqueur tasting
Transportation: 2-hour ferry transfer; 1-hour private transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Conquer Mount Zas, the Birthplace of Zeus
Day 5
Journey to the small hilltop chapel of Aghia Marina, the starting point of today's hike to the top of Mt. Zas. As well as being the highest peak in the Cyclades at 3,290 feet, Zas is also the legendary birthplace of Zeus! Take in the splendid views of Naxos from the top then descend to the village of Filoti for lunch. Return to Naxos for dinner this evening.
Accommodation: Porto Naxos Hotel Accommodation: Naxos Resort Beach Hotel
Activity: 5 miles/4.5 hours hiking with elevation gain of 1100' and loss of 2000'
Transportation: 40-minute bus transfer and 30-minute taxi ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel to Santorini & Paddle along Volcanic Cliffs
Day 6
After breakfast, take a high-speed ferry to stunning Santorini, an island created by a volcanic eruption and one of the most photogenic places in all of Greece. Unwind over lunch in the hotel, then embark on a kayaking tour at sunset, a one-of-a-kind way to see Santorini's cliffs and beaches. Savor a local dinner at a beachside restaurant before returning to the hotel.
Accommodation: El Greco Santorini Accommodation: Splendour Resort Accommodation: Santorini Palace
Activity: 4-hour sunset kayaking tour
Transportation: 70-minute ferry ride and 30-minute hotel transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take the Ultimate Santorini Hike
Day 7
Start the day by exploring the Bronze Age village of Akrotiri, one of the most important archeological sites on the Aegean coast and famed for its well-preserved frescoes. Re-energize over lunch, then begin your hike from Fira to Oia along the rim of the caldera. With vistas of blue domes and whitewashed facades, this hike is a quintessential Santorini experience. Take in the resplendent sunset at Oia, then toast to your journey over a farewell dinner.
Accommodation: El Greco Santorini Accommodation: Splendour Resort Accommodation: Santorini Palace
Activity: 6.5 miles/4.5hours hiking with elevation gain of 1100' and loss of 1800'
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart from Santorini
Day 8
After breakfast, fly from Santorini to Athens for connecting afternoon flights.
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.
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.
Your MT Sobek trip leader will welcome you at Athens International Airport and transfer you to the hotel. Meet your group at 6:30pm in the hotel lobby, then set off on a walking tour of the historic Plaka neighborhood, famous for its labyrinthine streets and neoclassical architecture. At 8pm, savor your first taste of Greece at a local restaurant.
Explore Athens, once a powerful city-state and today the capital of Greece. Take the millennia-old journey up the hill to tour the Acropolis, the ancient citadel, and admire the Parthenon temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena. Marvel at the archeological treasures at the New Acropolis Museum, then tour the city on wheels to see the temple of Zeus, the Hellenic Parliament, and the Panathenaic Stadium, which hosted the first Olympic Games. After a lunch in the port of Rafina, hop on a high-speed catamaran to Tinos, your first stop in the Cyclades.
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Today, hike and explore the enchanting island of Tinos. Starting from the village of Volax, which sits nestled in a lunar landscape of large granite boulders, make your way to the tiny hillslope village of Koumaros. Refresh with a traditional Greek coffee that will power your climb to Xobourgo hill with its splendid vistas over the Aegean Sea. Descend to the seaside village of Kionia and relax over a leisurely lunch. Then take a dip next to the remains of the ancient temple of Poseidon, the god of the sea. This evening, enjoy dinner in Tinos.
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Bid farewell to Tinos and take a morning ferry to Naxos island, the largest of the Cyclades. Settle in at the hotel, then head out for a hike to two monumental statues: 20-foot Kouros of Melanes and the 16-foot Kouros of Potamia. Refresh by a spring in Ano Potamia village, then trek to Apano Kastro (Upper Castle) to admire the marvelous panoramas of Naxos. Stop at a small Kitron distillery and enjoy a tasting of this local citron liqueur. Wrap up the day with an amazing homemade dinner under the shade of grapevines.
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Journey to the small hilltop chapel of Aghia Marina, the starting point of today\'s hike to the top of Mt. Zas. As well as being the highest peak in the Cyclades at 3,290 feet, Zas is also the legendary birthplace of Zeus! Take in the splendid views of Naxos from the top then descend to the village of Filoti for lunch. Return to Naxos for dinner this evening.
After breakfast, take a high-speed ferry to stunning Santorini, an island created by a volcanic eruption and one of the most photogenic places in all of Greece. Unwind over lunch in the hotel, then embark on a kayaking tour at sunset, a one-of-a-kind way to see Santorini\'s cliffs and beaches. Savor a local dinner at a beachside restaurant before returning to the hotel.
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Start the day by exploring the Bronze Age village of Akrotiri, one of the most important archeological sites on the Aegean coast and famed for its well-preserved frescoes. Re-energize over lunch, then begin your hike from Fira to Oia along the rim of the caldera. With vistas of blue domes and whitewashed facades, this hike is a quintessential Santorini experience. Take in the resplendent sunset at Oia, then toast to your journey over a farewell dinner.
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[ActivityHighlight] => On this trip, you will be hiking up to 4.5 hours and 6.5 miles a day, mostly at elevations below 3,000 feet. The trails can be rocky and uneven, with up to 1,100 feet elevation gain. You will also kayak on protected waters for about two hours in sit-in double kayaks. No kayaking experience is required. You should enjoy hiking and adventuring in the outdoors and be in very good physical condition.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. On this trip, you will be hiking up to 4.5 hours and 6.5 miles a day, mostly at elevations below 3,000 feet. The trails can be rocky and uneven, with up to 1,100 feet elevation gain. You will also kayak on protected waters for about two hours in sit-in double kayaks. No kayaking experience is required. You should enjoy hiking and adventuring in the outdoors and be in very good physical condition. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
1-hour walking tour
Day 3
5.5 miles/4 hours hiking with elevation gain of 820' and elevation loss of 1,700'
Day 4
4.5 miles/4 hours hiking with elevation gain of 912' and elevation loss of 666'; optional liqueur tasting
Day 5
5 miles/4.5 hours hiking with elevation gain of 1100' and loss of 2000'
Day 6
4-hour sunset kayaking tour
Day 7
6.5 miles/4.5hours hiking with elevation gain of 1100' and loss of 1800'
Accommodations
Stay in charming hotels with modern comforts and local character, all in prime locations.
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.
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.
Overlooking the old port, Onar Hotel and Suites is the perfect spot to soak up the vibe of Tinos' seaside. Featuring clean lines and Cycladic decor, the 15 well-appointed apartments all open to a balcony or the courtyard patio, with a pool that boasts views of the Aegean Sea. All units are air-conditioned, most have a kitchenette, and some come with a fireplace.
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.
Splendour Resort offers Cycladic 5-star accommodations in the picturesque town of Firostefani. Eighty-three rooms feature amenities such as a flat-screen satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, a complimentary set of bathrobes and slippers, and private balconies that face the stunning views of the eastern Aegean Sea. The on-site restaurant serves an a la carte menu and a delicious buffet breakfast, and there is a pool bar in a swimming pool area where guests can sip on refreshing cocktails.
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.
Conveniently located a short distance from old town, Chora Castle, and Apollo's Temple, Naxos Resort offers 88 elegant rooms with views of the gardens, pool, or sea. Each features a private balcony or terrace, air-conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and cable TV. Guests can splash in the swimming pool or enjoy the outdoor Jacuzzi. There is also a sauna, fitness center, and massage services.
Weather
Expect mild and sunny weather. Temperatures will range between 55º-75º F. The sea is chilly in spring, and warmer in fall.
May
Jun
Jul
Sep
Oct
Athens
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Athens
76
60
85
68
90
73
83
67
74
60
Naxos
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Naxos
72
61
79
68
81
73
77
69
71
63
Santorini
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Santorini
72
61
81
69
84
73
79
68
72
63
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
The group will be met by a MT Sobek representative at the Athens International Airport (ATH) on Day 1, and transferred to our group hotel in Athens.
What is the kayaking like?
We will kayak close to the lands' edge, in calm waters using stable 2-person sit-in kayaks with a spray skirt. There will be a short orientation on the beach before we begin.
Do you really hike in the Greek Islands, or are we just walking?
The terrain on these islands is rocky and uneven with some steep sections. We will be hiking, and hiking poles are recommended for balance and stability.
What is the cuisine like in Greece?
There is ample use of olive oil, fresh local produce and herbs, breads, locally produced wine, fresh fish and seafood, and various meats, including lamb, poultry, beef, rabbit and pork.
Who is this trip best suited for?
This adventure is perfect for people who want to hike and kayak at a moderate pace with ample time to take in breathtaking views, delicious food, and a gorgeous sunset.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our family friendly departures and private trip options for groups with younger guests.
