Island Hopping, Summer on the Greek Islands: Mykonos, Santorini, Crete

Welcome to Greece's most famous cosmopolitan islands, a whitewashed paradise in the heart of the Cyclades. The crescent-shaped Santorini Island is its most precious gem. Crete is the largest island in Greece, where you can admire the remnants of brilliant civilizations, explore glorious beaches, impressive mountain escapes, fertile valleys and steep gorges, and become part of the island’s rich gastronomic culture. 

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Mykonos: set out on a trip to discover the beauties of the island, particularly its sun-kissed beaches.

Chora: It is one of the best examples of Cycladic architecture. Stroll around its narrow marble streets and admire whitewashed houses with colourful doors and window frames, bougainvillaea trees in red bloom and hidden churches.

Santorini: formed by the eruption of the volcano 1600 BC. The sight is the most breathtaking of all Greek islands and perhaps of the world.

Heraklion: the perfect base for exploration, as it is close to two of the most important monuments in Crete: Knossos Palace and Phaistos Palace.

Crete Island: In Crete, you will find the oldest wine-producing area in continuous use on the European continent. 

Day 1: MYKONOS ARRIVAL

Upon arrival at Mykonos Airport or Port, you will be met and transferred to the hotel, for check-in. The afternoon is free at leisure to start exploring this cosmopolitan island, stroll down the whitewashed streets of the Chora (the capital town), and get involved in the Mediterranean spirit by dining in one of the local taverns or drinking your first cocktail at one of the waterfront beach bars (own expense).

Overnight in Mykonos.

Day 2: MYKONOS DISCOVERY

Indulge in a delicious breakfast. Today we suggest you start getting a bit familiar with Mykonos Island and Chora. Pay a visit to the church of Panagia Paraportiani, the Townhall and the castle situated above the harbour. Don’t miss to visit the Archaeological, Folklore and Maritime Museums to take in a little history. Wander around the pedestrian shopping streets of the Chora. The most glamorous of all is Matoyanni Street, lined with brand name stores, charming cafés and stylish restaurants. On the lively waterfront, admire a fleet of fishing boats casting colourful reflections in the azure waters. This is where you will find the Kazarma building, which served as accommodation for the soldiers of Manto Mavrogenous, a heroine of the Greek Revolution. The first floor served as her personal residence. Continue by visiting the traditional settlement of Ano Mera village. The big square in the middle of the village with all traditional café and restaurants and the big marble fountain, the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani with the unique icon of holy Mary, makes Ano Mera the most attractive and traditional village of Mykonos. Continue to some of the most famous beaches of the island like Kalafatis, Agios Stefanos and Agios Giannis with the perfect view to Delos, just before returning back at your hotel full of experiences. 

Overnight in Mykonos.

Day 3: MYKONOS – SANTORINI (3hrs, by hydro boat)

Begin your day with a tasty breakfast at your hotel, and then hop on the transfer to the port of Mykonos to catch the hydro boat to Santorini. You will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in and settlement. This evening is free at leisure on this amazing island of Santorini. Explore and enjoy all that the island has to offer. History and nature combine to make Santorini unforgettable.

Overnight in Santorini.

Day 4: SANTORINI DISCOVERY

Enjoy a rich breakfast at the hotel. Start your day by visiting one of the hundreds of beaches found on the island. On the southern part of Santorini, you will find one of the most distinctive beaches of the island, the Red Beach. The contrasting colours of the red lava cliffs and the clear blue waters combine to make a perfect setting. Since you will already be there, visiting the White Beach in the nearby area is a must. Don’t miss the chance to also pay a visit to the archaeological site of Akrotiri as it’s considered as one of the main attractions of the island due to its association with the Minoan civilization. The end of the day shall find you in one of the many restaurants in the area serving fresh fish and other traditional delicacies (own expense). 

Overnight in Santorini.

Day 5: SANTORINI, THE SUNSET

Recharge your energies with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a slow day of rest and relaxation. But in the evening do not miss the sheer beauty of Santorini's sunset view, one of the best places on earth as far as sunset viewing is concerned. Oia village where you will view the sunset from is situated on top of an impressive cliff and offers a spectacular view over the volcano and the island of Thirassia. As soon as the sun sets, descend to Ammoudi Bay to enjoy a romantic dinner in a restaurant of your preference (own expense). Most of the harbours of the island run regular sunset cruises and it is a sheer delight to be on board and witness the ethereal sunset (not included).

Overnight in Santorini.

Day 6: SANTORINI – HERAKLION/CRETE (2hrs, by hydro boat)

After a delectable breakfast, transfer to the port of Santorini to catch the hydro boat to Heraklion. You will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in and settlement. Rest of day at your own leisure at Heraklion.  

Overnight in Heraklion. 

Day 7: HERAKLION, CITY EXPLORATION

Enjoy a delightful breakfast at your hotel. Today is free at leisure to start discovering Heraklion city. Strolling around Heraklion town, you will come across Koules fortress, at the Venetian port, Turkish and Venetian fountains, Venetian buildings, the Venetian Loggia and museums, such as the Archaeological Museum, the Historical Museum and the Museum of Natural History. If you are not a big fan of sightseeing, though, you should head to the beautiful beaches! The northern and southern coasts of the Heraklion region are fringed with former hippies’ paradise beaches, Matala beach, Agia Pelagia and Malia.

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 8: HERAKLION, HISTORY AND ART

Charge your batteries with breakfast at the hotel. Today you may be wondered by Heraklion history and art. Being over 20,000 square meters big, the Minoan Palace of Knossos is the largest of all Minoan palatial structures. The remains of colourful murals, imposing red columns and the glorious throne room will make you feel transported into the Minoan Era. The Minoan Palace of Phaistos is the second most important Minoan site, after Knossos. It is located on the east side of Kastri hill, boasting a beautiful natural setting. Do not miss to visit one or both of them. Alternatively, you can choose to go on the following optional tour: 

Knossos Palace private tour in Crete Island (requires min participation of 2 persons) : Includes 3hr private taxi transportation, private English speaking guide for 3hrs, entrance fee for Knossos Palace. Does not include: any meals or drinks.

Overnight in Heraklion.

Day 9: HERAKLION DEPARTURE

After one last breakfast at your hotel, bid farewell to Greece as you hop onto a comfortable transfer to Heraklion Airport or Port, where you will catch your flight to your following destination. We hope the memories of this trip will stay with you for a lifetime – have a safe journey!

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Greece. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.