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 will play a starring role on our trip!
Overnight in Athens in a 4* hotel
Dinner included
No matter how many photographs you have seen, nothing can prepare you for seeing the Acropolis in person, still standing after thousands of years. Alongside a specialized guide, you will explore the site and afterwards we will head towards the long-awaited Acropolis museum.
Early in the afternoon, we will drive to the port of Piraeus and from there we will take the ferry to 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. This is just the beginning of our adventure here.
Overnight in Naxos in a 3* hotel
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Driving distance:
Athens center to Piraeus port 10 km / 25 min
Ferry:
Piraeus port to Naxos 17:30-22:45
Our first hike starts, right next to the place where the two "small" Kouroi (male statues) of Naxos lay down, for 2600 years now. We will continue on to the Upper Castle, the former Venetian stronghold, passing olive groves interspersed with elements of the phrygana and maquis, and we will end up in one of the most beautiful villages of the island, Chalki.
In the afternoon, we will set off to explore the old town of Naxos which 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.
Overnight in Naxos in a 3* hotel
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Hiking distance: 7 km / Hiking Duration: 3 hr
Driving distance:
Naxos town to Kouros statue 10 km / 30 min
Chalki to Naxos town 16 km / 40 min
The island is home to the highest mountain in the Cyclades, Mount Zeus. The mountain and the hike to the top of it is the most epic one in the region. Mount Zeus has important historical significance because in ancient times, the local Greeks believed that the cave on the northwest side of the mountain was the birthplace of the god Zeus. When climbing it, you'll get the distinct feeling that Greek mythology is actually rooted in reality. After the hike, we will go for lunch in one of the most beautiful villages of the island, Apiranthos, which seems to grow out of the stony mountains.
In the afternoon, take a swim in the gorgeous sandy beach in front of our hotel. Swimming in the Aegean after a hike helps the body feel refreshed again.
Overnight in Naxos in a 3* hotel
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Hiking distance: 5 km / Hiking Duration: 3 hr
Driving distance:
Naxos town to Agia Marina 23 km / 50 min
Agia Marina to Apiranthos 5 km / 15 min
Apiranthos to Naxos town 26 km / 55 min
Santorini will take your breath away. It is dramatic and unique, formed from the remains of a volcanic crater. In the morning we will catch the ferry there, and after settling into our hotel we will hike the picturesque trail between Fira and 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 have ever hiked.
Overnight in Santorini in a 3* hotel
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Hiking distance: 10 km / Hiking Duration: 3 hr 30 min
Driving distance:
Santorini Port to Fira town 8 km / 25 min
Oia to Fira town 10 km / 20 min
Ferry:
Naxos to Santorini 11:00-12:20
In the morning we will head towards Akrotiri, Santorini's principal archaeological wonder: a town preserved under layers of lava. There we will enjoy our guide's insight on the history of the area. Right afterwards, we will put on our bathing suits and sea kayak into one of the most scenic areas of the island. Kayaking offers a wonderful way to explore the dramatic coastline of Santorini's expect high red cliffs and smooth pebbles under clear water. In the afternoon we will have time to stroll in Fira town before our farewell dinner overlooking the Caldera
Overnight in Naxos in a 3* hotel
Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Sea kayaking duration: 2 hr
Driving distance:
Fira to Akrotiri 12 km / 20 min
Akrotiri to Imerovigli 12 km / 20 min
Hopefully with a slight sense of nostalgia which comes when a nice experience has to come to an end, here your trip with Tripin Adventures concludes.
Transfer independently from our accommodations in Santorini to the international airport of the island for return flights home or continue your explorations of this marvelous region of Greece.
Breakfast included
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.
