
- Tour code
GRCADV01
- Start
Athens
- End
Santorini
- Min. age
16 years old
- Group size
6-16 persons
- Trip style
Explorer
- Trip pace
Relaxed
- Language
English
Spend nine days immersing yourself in Greece’s iconic islands, ancient history, and vibrant food scene. From sun-soaked beaches to bustling backstreet tavernas, this small-group adventure balances laid-back sailing with cultural exploration. Perfect for travelers who want to soak in the Greek lifestyle at a relaxed pace while still checking off historic landmarks.
What you will see and do

Cruise the Med at sunset on a private catamaran

Explore Greece’s white-washed islands of Santorini and Mykonos

Discover the history of Athens via its ancient sites and street food
What's included
All activities mentioned on the itinerary
Accommodations in double rooms
Experienced Soca Islands Host with you throughout the trip
One farewell group lunch or dinner
Max 20 travellers per group
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Group transportation
Group itinerary
Touch down in Athens, the cradle of democracy, where a private transfer will whisk you to your central hotel. Kick off your Greek adventure with a welcome dinner at the home of a renowned local chef, complete with stunning views of the Acropolis. This is the perfect way to meet your travel crew and dive into the flavors of Greece.
Discover Athens through the eyes of a local guide, exploring the iconic Acropolis, Parthenon, and the charming Plaka district, filled with neoclassical mansions, whitewashed churches, and winding streets. As night falls, experience the city’s buzzing nightlife, from chic rooftop bars and inventive cocktail lounges to intimate bouzouki music spots.
Enjoy a leisurely morning wandering Athens’ historic neighborhoods at your own pace browse boutique shops, enjoy a coffee at a hidden café, or explore quaint tavernas. In the afternoon, join a guided food tour sampling the best of Greek cuisine, from flaky pies and sizzling souvlaki to ouzo tastings and sweet loukoumades.
Board a ferry and sail across the sparkling Aegean to Mykonos, Greece’s glamorous island getaway. Explore the picture-perfect Old Town, stroll the cobblestone streets, and admire iconic landmarks like the windmills and Little Venice. Spend some free time discovering chic cafés, vibrant boutiques, and scenic corners of the island.
Take a full day to unwind on Mykonos’ stunning beaches. Swim, sunbathe, or simply relax and soak in the island vibes. Whether you want adventure or pure downtime, the choice is yours.
Create your own island experience go snorkeling, visit hidden coves, or hunt for secret beaches. Or, if ultimate relaxation is calling, lounge by your boutique hotel’s pool and enjoy the serenity of Mykonos.
Hop on the ferry to Santorini, the jewel of the Cyclades. Explore the breathtaking village of Oia, wandering through cobbled lanes lined with bougainvillea-draped cafés. Take in iconic vistas of the caldera and let the postcard-perfect scenery soak into your memory.
Set sail on a full-day catamaran cruise, swimming and snorkeling in secluded bays around Santorini’s caldera. Relax in thermal springs before enjoying a farewell dinner on board, toasting to a week of sun, sea, and unforgettable Greek experiences beneath a Santorini sunset.
Enjoy a final breakfast before heading to Santorini Airport. Your Soca Islands tour guide can assist with local transfers. Leave Greece feeling refreshed, inspired, and full of memories from ancient history, turquoise waters, and the magical islands of the Aegean.
Tour FAQS
Fly into Athens Airport (ATH) and out of Santorini International Airport (JTR).
Yes. If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure or book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer is included. If you choose alternative pre-tour accommodation or arrive by another mode of transport, you’ll need to arrange your own arrival transfer.
Our arrival transfers are private to Soca Islands and are organised in groups based on flight times. Sometimes this means a short wait at the airport until other flights arrive.
While we’re not medical professionals, we want to help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure. Here are some tips:
- Consult with a healthcare professional: Schedule an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure to get any necessary vaccines or medications.
- Up-to-date medical advice:
- US residents: Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
- UK residents: Visit the NHS Fit For Travel website.
- Australian residents: Refer to the Smart Traveler Health website.
3. Government travel advice:
- US residents: Consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- UK residents: Check the FCDO Travel Advice.
- Australian residents: Visit the Smart Traveler website.
4. Medication tips: If you take prescription medication, bring enough to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to visit a clinic abroad.
We hope this helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
There are no scheduled activities on the final day, so feel free to book your departure at your own convenience.
We recommend arriving before 3 pm on Day 1 to make it in time for the welcome event. But don’t worry no matter when you land, we’ll have an airport transfer ready for you.
Please Refer to your government’s travel advice or consult your local consulate. Remember, passport and visa requirements can change, so make sure to stay updated.
Excluding alcohol, we suggest budgeting around USD $40.00 per day for extras.
While we’re not medical professionals, we want to help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure. Here are some tips:
- Consult with a healthcare professional: Schedule an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure to get any necessary vaccines or medications.
- Up-to-date medical advice:
- US residents: Check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
- UK residents: Visit the NHS Fit For Travel website.
- Australian residents: Refer to the Smart Traveler Health website.
3. Government travel advice:
- US residents: Consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- UK residents: Check the FCDO Travel Advice.
- Australian residents: Visit the Smart Traveler website.
4. Medication tips: If you take prescription medication, bring enough to last the entire trip, plus a few extra days in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription in case you need to visit a clinic abroad.
We hope this helps you prepare for a safe and enjoyable adventure.
Please keep in mind that our itinerary, activities, and hotels might change. These adjustments could happen with little notice due to factors like availability, weather conditions, seasonal shifts, or other circumstances beyond our control. Rest assured, we always aim to minimise any impact on your experience. Occasionally, we may tweak the itinerary to try out fresh ideas and keep the adventure exciting.
We believe solo travelers shouldn’t have to pay extra to explore the world. That’s why our group trips are designed around shared accommodation and do not include a single supplement. Solo travelers joining our group trips are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with another traveler of the same sex for the duration of the trip.
Some of our Independent trips are structured differently. For these itineraries, solo travelers will need to book at the single occupancy rate.
Tips are not included in the cost of this tour. Remember, tipping is entirely at your discretion and based on what you feel comfortable with.
Would you like to learn more or customise our Greece: Athens & the Islands trip?
Have questions about accommodations, accessibility, group preferences, or dietary needs? Complete the form below and our team will get back to you shortly.
By submitting this form you are agreeing to receive communications from our team. You may unsubscribe at any time.