Greek Island Hopper - 10 Days

Duration

10 Days

Difficulty
Balanced
Start

Athens

End

Athens

Rating

***

Operator

Trafalgar Tours

10 Day Greek Island Hopping tour of Mykonos and Santorini

Slow the world right down when you board this Greek island hop and experience how the locals enjoy life on the islands of Santorini and Mykonos. Your journey begins and ends in lively Athens where there’s plenty of time to explore ancient treasures and see all the sights...

Itinerary

Expand all

Day 1: Welcome to Athens

Arrival Transfer: Depart the airport at 11:00, 16:00

Welcome: Meet your Travel Director at 18:30

Ease into a simpler way of life – the intoxicatingly slow pace of the Cycladic islands is the ultimate departure from reality, but not before you enjoy a passionate encounter with Athens after being transferred to your hotel. Join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a light meal to kick off your discovery of Greece's capital and the enchanting islands of Mykonos and Santorini.

AccommodationRadisson Blu Park Hotel Athens/Crowne Plaza Athens City Centre Hotel/Divani Caravel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Dinner

Day 2: Explore Ancient Athens

Embark on a journey to antiquity with your Local Specialist who will take you to the Acropolis, a sacred site since Mycenaen times. Imagine Athenians ascending the hilltop shrine to worship Athena at the Parthenon, and see the Panathinaiko Olympic stadium, the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch. Admire the pom-pom march of the Evzone guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, then spend the rest of the day on your own soaking up the verve of this vibrant city.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour). 

Cape Sounion - EUR 60 pp

Take a relaxing trip down to the southernmost tip of Mainland Greece to see the fifth century BC Temple of Poseidon at Sounion. See if you can spot where Byron carved his initials on one of the temple’s sixteen columns. Marvel at the sheer rugged beauty of the coastline and the ancient temple perched above a 197-foot drop down to the Aegean Sea below. Stand above the site of the world’s first lighthouse, overlooking an area steeped in classical Greek history, ever since the tragic King Aegeas threw himself from the rocky precipice into the sea below, thereby giving his name to the Aegean Sea.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, Visit Turtle Sanctuary - EUR 46 pp

Visit the first Turtle sanctuary created in the Mediterranean, the Glyfada Turtle Rehabilitation and rescue centre (Achelon). Meet the care team and learn about the work being done to help injured turtles, protect the species and create awareness on the importance of protecting these majestic animals, addressing United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water. Subject to participation numbers.

Dinner Meze Style & Athens Illuminations - EUR 60 pp

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at a wonderful restaurant located in the lively area of Psiri. Dining is “meze style”, giving you the opportunity to taste many Greek cuisine dishes, which are served in the centre of the table. Also enjoy the local free-flowing wine! Afterwards, see Athens illuminated as you return to your hotel.

Radisson Blu Park Hotel Athens/Crowne Plaza Athens City Centre Hotel/Divani Caravel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast

Day 3: Cruise to Santorini

Depart Athens and cruise to Santorini, where you'll spend the next three days exploring the island's dramatic beauty. Stroll through the volcanic island's quaint clifftop towns. Blue-domed whitewashed façades cling dramatically to the multi-coloured cliffs providing a spectacular backdrop for exquisite sunsets. Join your companions this evening for a memorable meal of Greek cuisine.

El Greco Resort & Spa Santorini/Santorini Palace /Kallisti Hotel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast Dinner

Day 4: Santorini Your Way

View the magnificent caldera, see the island's ancient ruins or ramble through the winding streets of Fira and Oia - today is yours to enjoy a leisurely exploration of this beautiful island on your own. Indulge in a day of sunbathing and relaxation on one of its many beaches or shop up a storm at its boutique stores.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).  

Traditional Greek Wedding Show - EUR 80 pp

Join the fun of a 1940s Greek wedding at this interactive show in Thira. Follow the story of a post-war family wedding, from the preparations to the lively reception. Enjoy live music, singing, dancing and, of course, plate-smashing. Get involved in the celebrations and tuck into delicious meze appetisers with plenty of wine. 

El Greco Resort & Spa Santorini/Santorini Palace /Kallisti Hotel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast

Day 5: Enjoy Sunny Santorini

Consider an optional visit to a local winery to toast to the spellbinding beauty of Santorini and learn about the art of winemaking in the region. Then consider a ride in a caïque (sailing boat) to the volcanic island of Nea Kameni to swim in its glorious hot springs - another full day at leisure to relax and soak up the island's atmosphere.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).  

Santorini Island Tour with Visit to Megalochori - EUR 100 pp

Discover Santorini’s iconic charm, from whitewashed buildings and blue-domed churches to volcanic history. Visit the Bronze Age site of Megalochori, often called the “Prehistoric Pompeii”, then travel past hilltop villages to the black sand beach of Perivolos. Enjoy free time to swim, relax or have lunch by the sea. Special Note: This optional can also be offered with extension to visit Oia village. Rate for full-day experience including Oia visit is €118.00.

Santorini Caldera Catamaran Cruise - EUR 195 pp

Hop on a catamaran and sail across the Santorini caldera. Take in the views, feel the sea breeze and stop to swim or snorkel in the clear Aegean waters. A relaxed and fun way to experience the island from the water.

Sunset On Board - EUR 90 pp

This afternoon, board a large wooden caique and set off toward the volcano. Choose to hike to the top for a closer look at this active volcanic landscape or stay on board and take in the stunning views. Afterwards, swim in the hot springs and enjoy the natural spa-like warmth of the thermal waters. As the sun sets, savour a casual dinner with wine on board, accompanied by music and breathtaking views of Oia perched high on the cliffs. (€5.00 volcano entrance fee not included.) 

El Greco Resort & Spa Santorini/Santorini Palace /Kallisti Hotel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast

Day 6: Cruise to Mykonos

Take a short ferry transfer to Mykonos - its characteristic hillside windmills overlook the beautiful bay and stand as an enduring greeting to all who arrive. Enjoy an orientation before spending the rest of your day getting lost amidst the island's labyrinthine lanes, lined with whitewashed cottages and tumbling cerise bougainvillea. Take to the playground of the rich and famous and perhaps experience the island's vibrant nightlife.

AccommodationRhenia Mykonos Hotel & Bungalows/Vienoula's Garden/Adonis Hotel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast

Day 7: Admire Mykonos

Set your watch to island time and enjoy a glorious day soaking up the laid-back vibe of Mykonos. Spend your day relaxing on its beautiful beaches, sip champagne in the picturesque Little Venice waterside, or visit some of its historical treasures, including the 17th-century Church of the Paraportiani, the Archaeological Museum and the Aegean Maritime Museum.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).  

Mykonos Island Tour - EUR 65 pp

Explore the vibrant Island of Mykonos, driving through amazing Cycladic landscapes, admiring some of its splendid beaches and scenic locations. It is the perfect opportunity to experience the every-day Mykonian life and connect with the legends and stories linked to this island. Our exploration begins with Ano Mera, home to the famous monastery dedicated to the protector of the island. Continue to one of the Blue Flag-awarded beaches of the island and perhaps enjoy a swim in the beautiful Aegean sea.

Rhenia Mykonos Hotel & Bungalows/Vienoula's Garden/Adonis Hotel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast

Day 8: Relax on the Island

Kick back and enjoy another idyllic day in beautiful surrounds. Indulge in local seafood flavours or enjoy a leisurely swim in the calm waters of the Aegean.

Rhenia Mykonos Hotel & Bungalows/Vienoula's Garden/Adonis Hotel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast Dinner

Day 9: Cruise to Athens

Return to Athens via a high-speed ferry. After being transferred to your hotel, enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping.

Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).  

Traditional Greek Taverna Meal With Entertainment - EUR 60 pp

This is an evening excursion to a taverna in the centre of Athens. Enjoy excellent traditional Greek food in a lively atmosphere while being entertained by dances and music from all parts of the country. Wine, beer and soft drinks are also included. Although the venue does have an official ending time, guests are more than welcome to stay on in the taverna, to join in with the local residents! (Casual dress)

Radisson Blu Park Hotel Athens/Divani Caravel (your hotel will be dependent on your departure date)
Breakfast

Day 10: Farewell Athens

Say a fond farewell to Greece and your newfound friends as you are transferred to the airport for the flight home. You can, of course, extend your stay.

Departure Transfer: Arrive at Athens Airport at 07:00, 10:00

Breakfast

Includes

  • 9 nights in handpicked 3 & 4 star hotels in great locations
  • Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
  • 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
  • Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
  • Meals as stated in the itinerary 

Excludes

  • Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
  • Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
  • Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour

Choose a Group Size / Service or Room Level

selected package title

Choose a Date

Choose Your Departure Date

Loading dates...

Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Expand all

How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?

A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.

The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.

For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.

The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice. 

Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.

YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.

CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.

What does the tour cost include?

The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.

Can i book flights through you?

Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines.

When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind. 

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for any flight requirements. 

You are, of course, welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.  

Can i add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?

Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.   

Can i book twin beds or triple/quad rooms?

Yes, we have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.

If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.

For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.

For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.

How much is the solo/single supplement?

Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement. 

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

How many guests will be on this tour?

Trafalgar welcomes guests from all over the world to have an amazing, shared travel experience. While we can’t share details of who you’ll be travelling with and how many people are on your tour in advance of your tour, you can see our average group sizes below.  You’ll meet your group at your tour welcome when you start your trip.

Europe trips: An average of 40 to 45 guests and a maximum of 53

United States and Canada trips: A maximum of 52 guests

Australia and New Zealand trips: A maximum of 50 guests

Asia trips (except Sri Lanka): A maximum of 32 guests

Sri Lanka trips: A maximum of 48 guests

Africa trips: A maximum of 36 guests

Latin America trips: A maximum of 40 to 45 guests   

How much walking will be on this tour?

With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.

Leisurely: Tours will typically have 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs. 

Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs. 

Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.   

Do your coaches have on-board wifi and bathroom faclilites?

Regardless of where in the world your tour visits, we do our best to ensure your coach is as comfortable as it can be. However, there can be differences depending on where in the world you're visiting:

Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand trips:-

We pride ourselves on having the best-in-class fleet of fuel-efficient coaches. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city centre. Facilities you’ll enjoy are:

  • Reclining seats
  • An on-board restroom
  • Charging points (please note that these are power points, and not USBs)
  • WiFi
  • Air-conditioning

Africa & Asia trips:-

Africa and Asia tour vehicles do not have Wi-Fi. On Asia trips, there are no onboard rest rooms, but we always ensure there are regular rest stops.

Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?

Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.  

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.

Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.

Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.

We suggest that your insurance covers the following:

  • Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
  • Loss or damage to your property and baggage
  • Loss of cash, credit cards etc
  • Medical costs and personal accidents

Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive. 

Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel. 

Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.

What does a guaranteed departure mean?

A guaranteed departure means the tour will operate no matter how many people are booked to travel on that departure. 

In the slim case that a guaranteed departure you are booked on has to be withdrawn due to unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid, or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.

What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?

Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.

Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.

Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:

Europe trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.

Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.

Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.

Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc. 

United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:

From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. 

UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.   

USA trips incl transiting travellers: 

US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.

ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website. 

Canada trips:

Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.   

eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.

Rest of the World trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them. 

What if I have mobility issues?

Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.

What if I have food allergies?

Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.

You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.

How much luggage can I bring?

Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). 

In addition guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).

Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.  

GBP £3,219.00 GBP £2,899.00 / Adult
Need help with booking?

Inquiry Form

*
*
*
*

Contact Us - Call us on 0844 80 444 80 or email via the contact form below...

*
*
*
*
*

Choose Your Departure Date