7-Day Essence of Greece

For a first-time Greece visitor, without a doubt the best idea for a 1-week tour is to combine Athens with two awesome islands. We have chosen the most popular Cycladic Islands for you: Mykonos and Santorini.

• Iconic blue-domed churches and breathtaking sunsets create a picturesque and romantic ambiance in Santorini.
• From its picturesque windmills, standing tall as sentinels, to its peculiar pelican inhabitants who wander the waterfront, Mykonos whispers tales of mythology and folklore.

This is a private tour and it can be customized just for you. We can add water sports or anything you're interested in, and we will adapt it to your schedule by making it when you want and as long as you want.

• Days:7±
• Best for:First-time visitors
• Best time:Apr.-Jul./ Sep.- Oct.
• Departure date:up to you
• Sample price:US$2259 each (2 per room)

Brief Itinerary for Essence of Greece Tour

This is the best choice for Time-limited travellers. If you are looking for a compressed classic Greece vacation, I would be happy to help you out.

• Monica Mo
• 8 years of travel advisor experience
• Has helped 5,000+ clients

Tour Highlights

Here are the awesome attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Highlights Travel (HT Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Highlights Travel (Only With HT) included in this tour:

Venture into the heart of Athens and let the majestic Acropolis unveil its unrivaled splendor.

Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Immerse yourself in the ancient world of Greek mythology and history at Delos.

Immerse yourself in the flavors and aromas of Santorinian wines.

Enjoy the striking contrast of blue church domes and doors against white buildings on narrow alleys.

Capture a sunset in Oia Village, and be captivated by its changing colors and serene atmosphere.

Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration

Your preferences design the real journey. We're ready to create a wonderful tour for you.

Day 2

Athens | Discover Athens' City Highlights

• Start with a visit to the city center, including the Hellenic Parliament in the Old Royal Palace, the National Library, and the Presidential Mansion. Watch the Evzones in their skirted uniform at Syntagma ('Constitution') Square and the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier.
• Before ascending to the Acropolis, you will explore Hadrian's Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Panathenaic Stadium, which is famed for holding the first modern Olympic Games in 1896.
• Then explore the ancient citadel — the Acropolis, which is home to several historied buildings and structures, including the Propylaea (ceremonial gateway), the Temple of Athena Nike, the Temple of Athena Polias, and most famous of all, the Parthenon.
• The day's highlights tour completes with a visit to the Acropolis Museum.

Temple of Olympian Zeus

Day 3

Athens to Mykonos by Ferry | Free afternoon & evening

• Early in the morning, transfer to Piraeus port and take a ferry to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos where you will be transferred to your hotel.
• With a free afternoon, you can begin to explore this famous Cycladic Island on your own, enjoying the beautiful beaches of Elia, Paradise, Super Paradise, and Psarou, the town's Cycladic architecture, and great nightlife.

Little Venice on Mykonos island

Day 4

Mykonos | A Day Trip to Delos (join-in)

• Discover the ancient ruins on the island of Delos with a boat tour from Mykonos.
• See sights like the house of Dionysus, the Colossus of the Naxians, and the Temple of Apollo.
• Step back in time as you stroll through the ruins of a Roman-era market.

Delos Ruins

Day 5

Mykonos to Santorini by Ferry | Free afternoon & evening

• Board the ferry from Mykonos to Santorini. Upon arrival at the pier, you will be transferred to your hotel.
• The rest of the day is open to your choice of sightseeing: enjoy the unique caldera views or take a walk to see Fira town with its beautiful whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and open-air cafés that hang on steep cliffs.

Fira town

Day 6

Santorini| Discover the Magic of Santorini

• Immerse yourself in the beauty of Oia, with its charming blue-domed churches and breathtaking views of the Oia Caldera.
• Visit the peaceful village of Megalochori, known for its neoclassical houses and traditional taverns.
• Indulge in a wine-tasting experience at one of the island's renowned wineries, where you will taste four different varieties and learn about local wines.
• Explore the ancient city of Akrotiri, one of the most important Bronze Age settlements in the Aegean.
• Finally, relax and unwind at enchanting Perissa Black Sand Beach, where you can swim and enjoy a seaside lunch.

sunset over Oia town

Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours

Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.

Hand-Picked Hotels

We select hotels with style and local features. Let us know your preferences and we'll find your ideal hotel.

Titania Hotel

Harmony Boutique Hotel

Aressana Spa Hotel & Suites