TABLE OF CONTENTS
Trip Highlights
Tour details
Itinerary
What's included
Itinerary Changes
Terrain
Condition Grading
Starting point and getting there
Food, Weather
Gear checklist
Currency & Banking
Passports, Visas
The Cycladic islands represent the classic essence of the "Greek islands" with their whitewashed houses, turquoise blue seas, olive groves, and sun-drenched landscapes. This region has been a place where people lived in harmony with the environment for centuries. A crucial part of this cultural identity is Cycladic cooking, known for its timeless, organic, and instinctive approach. The trip starts in Athens, and after visiting the Acropolis and the new Acropolis museum, we will hop in our ferry to Tinos, a wonderland of natural beauty, dotted with more than forty marble-ornamented villages found in hidden bays, on terraced hillsides and atop misty mountains. Next stop is Naxos, the biggest and one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades, if one can be in position to choose. It is an island with incredible landscape interchanges, Venetian castles and traditional villages perched on the cliffs of its mountains. Final stop is Santorini and probably you know how it looks like. Photos of vibrant blue waters overlooked by whitewashed stone homes nestled above multicolored cliffs are constantly fueling wanderlust around the world
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Indulge in a feast of varied tastes in different Cycladic islands
- Hike on cobblestone paths through stunning landscapes of villages, olive groves and dovecotes in Tinos
- Be amazed with the mountains of Naxos, a place of goats, shepherds, and tiny, solitary, whitewashed churches
- Sail the blue waters of the caldera of Santorini, with amazing views to the cliffs that loom overhead
TOUR DETAILS
- Days/Nights: 9 days / 8 nights
- Single supplement: Cost based on request. Availability limited.
- Condition grading: Easy active
ITINERARY
DAY 1
Arrival in Athens and welcome dinner
Often referred to as the cradle of Western civilization, Athens has been continually occupied by people for the last 7,000 years. You can't move without bumping into an ancient ruin or building, which evokes imagery of the Greek gods or the thoughts of their philosophers. In the afternoon we will meet at our hotel for an introductory talk and after a walk around Plaka, the oldest neighborhood of Athens, we will have our first dinner together in a traditional restaurant. Of course, Greek cuisine plays a starring role and we have spent many hours digesting countless delicacies during the research of this important aspect.
Overnight in Athens in a 4* hotel
Dinner included
DAY 2
Visit Acropolis and Acropolis Museum and afternoon ferry to Tinos
No matter how many photographs you’ve seen, nothing can prepare you for watching in person the Acropolis standing after thousands of years. Alongside with a specialized guide you will explore the site and afterwards we will head towards the long-waited Acropolis museum. In the afternoon we will drive to the port of Rafina and from there we will take the ferry to Tinos. In Tinos, all the fascination is hiding in the more than forty extraordinarily well preserved villages, in the stone huts, in the architectural details of the unique dovecotes, in the “handmade” terraces that cover the whole island.
Overnight in Tinos in a boutique hotel
Breakfast and lunch includedv
Ferry:
Rafina to Tinos 17:30-21:20
Driving distance:
Athens to Rafina port 30 km / 40 min
DAY 3
Hike from Volax to Tripotamos and home hosted meal
The village of Volax is like a habitat for hobbits. Cottages crouch among smooth round boulders which tumble down the mountain like giant bowling balls. Nobody knows how these peculiar rock formations evolved. Some say there was a volcanic eruption; others claim that meteorites rained down from the sky. The 20th-century Greek philosopher Cornelius Castoriadis simply concluded that Tinos was "not made by human hand". From Volax we will hike to the imposing rock of Exombourgo, with its medieval castle on top of it and then we will descend towards the village of Tripotamos in order to visit a local house where are we going to taste Cycladic dishes during a home hosted meal.
Overnight in Tinos in a boutique hotel
Breakfast and lunch included
Hiking distance: 3,5 km / Hiking Duration: 2 hr
Driving distance:
Tinos town to Volax village 13 km / 20 min
Tripotamos to Chora 5 km / 10 min
Tinos town to Pyrgos 23 km / 40 min
Pyrgos to Tinos Town 27 km / 40 min
DAY 4
Hike from Kardiani to Panormos and explore the Marble villages
More than any other material, it is marble that is most associated with Greek art and architecture, from antiquity to the present. On Tinos is a reflection of the cultural identity and today we will hike in the northern part of the island, where it once flourished. We will start from Kardiani, which is one of the prettiest villages in Tinos and the first stop will be Pyrgos, a historical village with great tradition in marble carving where even the cemetery is a feast of that fine art. There, we will visit the Museum of Marble Crafts, dedicated to this rich history of marble production and craftsmanship. Our hike ends to the seaside village of Panormos while the fragrant sea air and gentle climate of the island will refresh our spirits.
Overnight in Tinos town in a boutique hotel
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Hiking distance: 8 km / Hiking Duration: 4 hr
Driving distance:
Town of Tinos to Kardiani 15 km / 25 min
Panormos to Tinos Town 27 km / 50 min
DAY 5
Ferry to Naxos and food tour at the village of Apeiranthos
Next destination is Naxos. As the ferry arcs toward the island you catch the first glimpse of the Portara, a marble gateway on the headland, all that remains of an ancient temple to Apollo. Of course, this is just the beginning of your adventure here. Later in the day you will discover the tapestry of local customs and traditions, which brings the spirit of Naxos to life by visiting some of the prettiest villages in the Cyclades. First, we will drive from the plain to the highlands reaching the village of Chalki the former capital of the island, where you’ll taste Naxos’ famous citron liquor at a traditional distillery. From there we will continue your scenic drive climbing to the mountain village of Apeiranthos, known for its marble streets and medieval architecture, where you are going to participate in a food tour. You going to sample some crusty bread with the local smoked ham, pork in a rich tomato garlic sauce, goat cheese with honey, and a special dessert.
Overnight in Naxos in a boutique hotel
Breakfast and dinner included
Driving distance:
Naxos town to Chalki 25 km / 35 min
Chalki to Apiranthos 10 km / 15 min
Apeiranthos to Naxos town 35 km / 45 min
Ferry:
Tinos to Naxos 11:30-13:35
DAY 6
Cooking lesson
Greek cuisine reflects the rich agricultural production of our small yet blessed country, and is a reflection of our economy, history, social life, customs and even religious beliefs. In Naxos, the wide variety of produce available allows people to create eclectic dishes based on creative recipes. So today you will learn how to prepare a typical Greek-Family meal with the well-known pure Naxian products at a family farm which dates back to the 16th century and still has no electricity, so everything will be cooked with wood fire.
Overnight in Naxos in a boutique hotel
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Driving distance:
Naxos town to Melanes 18 km / 30 min
Melanes to Naxos town 18 km / 30 min
DAY 7
Stroll in Naxos town, ferry to Santorini and winery visit
The town of Naxos is regarded to be one of the most beautiful towns in the Cyclades, particularly popular for its fine architecture that is composed of Venetian and Cycladic elements. In the morning we will explore the impressive Venetian castle that stands on top of it. Later on in the day we will catch the ferry to Santorini, which is going to take your breath away. It is best approached by sea and as your arriving craft maneuvers over the impossibly midnight blue waters of the caldera, the sheer lava cliffs of the caldera lip, layered in varicolored rock, loom overhead, with white houses on top like a dusting of snow. Our afternoon, will be spent at one of the island's finest wineries. As you indulge in diverse grape varietals like the indigenous Assyrtiko, you'll delve into the knowledge of Santorini's ancient vineyard, explore the island's centuries-old history, and discover the profound influence of volcanic soils on its winemaking.
Overnight in Santorini in a boutique hotel
Breakfast and dinner included
Driving distance:
Santorini Port to Fira 10 km / 30 min
Ferry:
Naxos to Santorini 13:00-15:10
DAY 8
Hike from Fira to Oia and sail along the caldera
From the capital of the island Fira, we will hike the picturesque trail towards Oia, one of the best things to do on the islands. With breathtaking views and stunning vistas at every turn, the trail is guaranteed to be one of the prettiest you’ve ever hiked. After lunch, we will head to the port of Vlychada to embark our catamaran. Sailing in the caldera is a highly rewarding experience, permitting you to admire the island from a different perspective and discover a fascinating world of volcanic serenity and unparalleled splendor. You will swim in hot springs next to the volcano known for their therapeutic benefits, have barbecue on board and soak in the spectacular colors of the world’s famous Santorinean sunset.
Overnight in Santorini in a boutique hotel
Hiking distance: 10 km / Hiking Duration: 4 hr
Breakfast and dinner included
DAY 9
Say farewell to Greece or continue on your own
Breakfast is at your leisure at the hotel and following that, your Tripin Adventures trip in Greece concludes with independent departures to the airport or other areas of Greece. You can end your trip here or else join us for an extension to the nearby island of Crete, a unique world where civilization is counted by the millennia.
Breakfast included
Driving distance:
Oia to Santorini Airport 15 km / 25 min
WHATS INCLUDED
Price includes:
All accommodations based on double occupancy
Hotel taxes and service charges
All transportation during the trip
All activities mentioned in the program
Ferry tickets
Entrance fees to the Acropolis archaeological site and Acropolis museum
Tourist guide for the archaeological site of Acropolis and for the Acropolis museum
Services of a guide throughout the tour
Transport and handling of one reasonably sized suitcase and one carry-on per person
Included meals:
Breakfast, lunches and dinners as indicated in the itinerary, snacks during activities.
Not Included:
Domestic and/or international air fare
Medical expenses
Travel or emergency evacuation insurance
Gratuities for leader/guide or driver
Alcoholic beverages and meals other than outlined in itinerary
Visas if needed
Transfer to and from the airport/port
Other items of a personal nature
Anything not mentioned in above program
ITINERARY CHANGES
We are constantly updating our unique itineraries based on new information and experiences available. The walks, accommodations, and visits listed may be adjusted. The itineraries presented are subject to modification and change by Tripin Adventures. We reserve the right, without penalty, to make changes in the published itinerary whenever, in our judgment, conditions warrant, or if we deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience, or safety of participants, anything not mentioned in above program.
TERRAIN
This trip Level is Easy Active and is suitable for most people that are in good physical condition. The itinerary includes walking tours in villages, and three hikes of two to four hours.
CONDITION GRADING
Easy Active
Easy active
Trips designated “Easy Active” are perfect for first-timers, or travelers looking for a mild physical challenge. A typical day will consist of 1-3 hours of activity.
STARTING POINT AND GETTING THERE
Starting point is: Athens
Getting There & Away: Athens airport Eleftherios Venizelos, is about 27km east of Athens. Athens is connected with direct flights with various cities in Europe, North America and Asia.
Getting around: We can arrange for a transfer from the airport to your hotel. If you want to come by yourself, the metro and the suburban rail provide quick connections to central Athens (1 hour / 10 euro’ ticket). The bus option is cheaper though it takes longer (1h 30 min / 5 euro’ ticket). You can also take a taxi (1 hour / 35-50 euro’).
FOOD
Simple, nutritious and flavorsome, the food is one of the pleasures of travel through Greece. Rustic Greek Cuisine reflects the history and bounty of its diverse regions and relies in the fresh, seasonal home-grown produce and generally simple, unfussy cooking that brings out the rich flavors of the Mediterranean.
Greece's relaxed and hospitable dinning culture makes it easy to get into the local spirit. Greeks love to eat out and share impossibly big meals family style. Given the long summers and mild winters, alfresco dining is central to the dining experience. Service could be slow by Western standards, but why being in rush either way.
As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though. Wherever possible we will cater for dietary needs for any included meals, but there may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own. Note that alcohol and soda are not included.
WEATHER
Spring, summer and fall in Greece are sunny and warm. The daytime temperatures average 25-30 C though temperatures in the 35s are possible in the summer months. Nighttime temperatures cool off slightly to 20° C. Rain showers are rare in the islands, but it's often breezy and rainy on the coast.
GEAR CHECKLIST
Greece has a temperate climate. Base your clothing on the "layering system", if it is hot you can "peel off" layers quickly, if it is cooler and windy you can quickly "dress up". The lighter you travel, the easier you travel. Use your best judgement and pack as lightly as possible. You will appreciate light luggage towards the end of your trip.
Please consider taking along the following items on your trip.
OFFICIAL PAPERS
- Valid passport
- Airline tickets
LUGGAGE
- Duffel bag or rolling luggage
- Daypack to carry camera, water bottle and snacks etc.
- Luggage locks and tags
OUTERWEAR
- Midweight polar fleece sweater
- Rain jacket and rain pants, or poncho
CLOTHING
- Hiking shorts
- Casual clothing made of light-weight fabrics
- T-shirts
- Long-sleeve shirt
- Hiking pants, loose and easy to move in
- Underwear
- Swimsuit
CLOTHING ACCESSORIES
- Sun hat or baseball cap
FOOTWEAR
- Lightweight and supportive hiking boots, broken-in with good ankle support
- Beach sandals
- Casual, comfortable shoes for evening
ACCESSORIES
- Sunscreen and lip protection
- Sunglasses and retainer strap
- Beach towel
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
- Security pouch or money belt
- Trekking poles or walking staff
- Camera, memory and batteries
- Reading and writing materials
- Watch with alarm or travel alarm
- Travel pillow
- Motion sickness remedies
- Personal first-aid kit
- Insect repellent (lowrisk)
- Electric adapter plug/converter
This is not a fixed list, but more of a guideline, so feel free to add and remove items as you see fit.
CURRENCY & BANKING
Greece has adopted the Euro as its currency. The easiest way to obtain local cash is from an ATM. Greek ATMs accept cards bearing the Cirrus, EC, Euro card, Visa and Plus symbols. If you take cash, US or Canadian Dollars can be easily exchanged at banks. Most major credit cards, Visa, MasterCard and American Express are accepted. It is advisable to have some Euros with you upon arrival to be used for a taxi if necessary. You may want to check the website www.xe.com for current exchange rates.
PASSPORTS
You must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the conclusion of your trip. Please make sure that you have blank pages in your passport for your visa (if required), entry and exit stamps (one for each). Please make a copy to take with you in the event yours is lost or stolen and keep it separate from your actual passport.
VISAS
Currently a Greek Tourist Visa is not required for citizens of Canada, United States, Britain and Australia. If you hold another passport, please check online http://visacentral.com/visas.php
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