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Greece: Athens & the Islands

Dine on a sunset catamaran off Santorini’s shores, bask on untouched beaches on the Cyclades Islands & uncover foodie secrets in Athens

Greece: Athens & the Islands

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  • Overview
  • Itinerary
  • Accommodation
  • Important Notes

ABOUT THIS TRIP

That iconic Greek island-hopping adventure you’ve been dreaming of? It’s here (and it was definitely worth the wait).

Starting in Athens, you’ll visit star attractions like the dazzling Parthenon surveying the city from atop the Acropolis as it has done for two millennia. But you’ll also delve into a thriving outdoor cafe scene, sampling local street food and sipping sundowners at trendy rooftop bars.

Next up: the Cyclades Islands, where you’ll be soaking up the local vibe and exploring pretty whitewashed towns. Along the way, there’ll be time for shopping and indulgent beach time, before one last spectacular: sailing into that Santorini sunset on a catamaran cruise. Just remember to send us a postcard, okay?

PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Max 14 travellers per group
  • Exclusively for people in their 30s & 40s
  • Arrival transfer included
  • All activities mentioned on the itinerary
  • 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinners
  • Stay in hand-picked 3-4 star hotels
  • Inter-island ferries & private minibus
  • Accommodation in twin rooms
  • Experienced Pack Leader with you throughout the trip

Flashpackers must provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their adventure. Remember, flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a twin room. If you'd like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.

Itinerary

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DETAILED ITINERARY

  • Day 01 Welcome to Athens

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    Welcome to Athens, capital of Greece and birthplace of democracy. Blessed with a beautiful coastline and warm Mediterranean climate, you’ll slip effortlessly into the holiday vibe. A private Flash Pack transfer will be waiting at the airport to transport you to your central boutique hotel. Here, you’ll join your Pack Leader and group for a welcome meeting before heading out to enjoy a special meal at the home of an esteemed local chef. Bond with your group over a delicious Greek dinner – complete with Acropolis views – and raise a glass of retsina to eight more days of adventure.

  • Day 02 Ancient sites & rooftop drinks

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    Today, you’ll explore Athens on foot, led by a local expert who will take you on a romp through the ages. Starting at the Acropolis, the crowning glory of ancient Greece, you’ll climb the marble steps to the Parthenon for astounding views of the city. Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch and the Kallimarmaro Stadium – built for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Finally, you’ll delve into the winding alleyways of picturesque Plaka – the oldest part of Athens – dotted with whitewashed churches and crumbling neoclassical mansions. Save some energy for tonight as you’ll have a chance to check out the city’s vibrant nightlife. From chic rooftop spots to acclaimed cocktail bars, the possibilities are endless.

  • Day 03 Eat like a local

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    There’s a free morning in store, so enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or head out to explore the atmospheric suburbs that cling to the base of the Acropolis. At lunchtime, you’ll be scouring the streets for tasty treats on a walking food tour of the city. Follow delicious aromas to an old bakery to taste a variety of Greek pies. Wind your way past ornate Byzantine and Orthodox churches to Athens’s Central Market for a cheese and meat plate washed down with local ouzo or tsipouro. Sample souvlaki in Monastiraki Square – the perfect place for people-watching – before finishing off in St Irene’s Square with the sweet Greek dessert of loukomades (fried donuts with honey).

  • Day 04 Island-hopping to Naxos

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    After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the port of Athens for the island-hopping part of your adventure. Boarding a ferry, you’ll cruise for five hours across the Aegean Sea to Naxos. The largest and least developed of the Cyclades (the Greeks themselves come here on holiday), the island has some of the loveliest beaches and most dramatic scenery. Arriving into the photogenic seafront town of Chora, you’ll check into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon. Explore the steep cobbled alleys below the hilltop kastro (castle) and fortified Venetian mansions, or find a quiet spot for a swim. Later, you might like to walk into town for dinner with your group. 

  • Day 05 An island food tour

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    Your first stop today will be at the small farming village of Eggares on Naxos. Set on a fertile plain, this tiny cluster of whitewashed houses is the center of the island’s olive oil production. At the characterful local museum, you’ll learn how the oil is manually extracted using traditional tools, plus have the chance to taste some olive-based products such as oils, jams and cookies. Then, you’ll continue to the nearby village of Galini where your host Ms Voula will be waiting to start a cooking class. Using products from her nearby farm, you’ll help prepare an authentic menu of delicious Greek dishes, which you’ll sit down to enjoy together while learning about local life and agriculture on the island. 

  • Day 06 Sun, sea & sand

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    No visit to Greece would be complete without some free time at the beach. Today, you’ll be free to swim, sunbathe and relax to your heart’s content on one of Naxos’s many idyllic sandy stretches lapped by balmy turquoise waves. If you’d like to explore the island, your Pack Leader will be full of suggestions and can help you make arrangements. Options might include a luxury catamaran cruise around Naxos or a walking tour of the old town. Late afternoon, enjoy a drink at a beachfront cafe and watch the sun sinking slowly towards the horizon, marking the end of another blissful day.

  • Day 07 Magical sunset views

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    This morning, you’ll continue your journey across the Aegean to picture-perfect Santorini. The island’s unique landscape was formed around 1200BC when a huge volcanic eruption left behind a steep-walled, sea-filled crater. Arriving by boat, it’s hard not to be awed by the multi-colored cliffs rising sheer out of the turquoise sea. After a free afternoon to relax and explore, tonight you’ll visit the beautiful village of Oia – the face of a thousand postcards. With its terraces of white Cycladic houses and blue-domed churches carved into the clifftop, the sunsets here are mesmerizing. You’ll have time to wander through the old town’s maze of cobbled lanes, boutiques and flower-bedecked cafes before returning to your hotel. 

  • Day 08 Santorini sunset cruise

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    For your final day, we’ve got something special in store. Following a relaxed morning, you’ll set sail after lunch on a small-group catamaran cruise. The two-hulled yacht includes ample space for sunbathing on deck, a shady cabin, plus hammock-style nets on the bow. Spend an afternoon sailing inside the Santorini caldera, dropping anchor in secluded bays to swim and snorkel off the boat. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to bathe in a healing thermal spring. The water here is full of sulfur, iron and other metals coming from the volcano. Tonight your crew will prepare a delicious farewell dinner to be enjoyed on board under the glow of a Santorini sunset. A fitting finale to your epic Greek odyssey.  

  • Day 09 Farewell, Greece

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    Alas, your journey has come to an end. You’ve soaked up the sites of ancient Athens and visited some incredible Aegean islands, forming firm friendships along the way. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel with your group before saying your goodbyes and transferring to Santorini Airport for your flight home. 

  • Day 01 A traditional Greek welcome

    Card image

    Welcome to Athens, capital of Greece and birthplace of democracy. Blessed with a beautiful coastline and warm Mediterranean climate, you’ll slip effortlessly into the holiday vibe. A private Flash Pack transfer will be waiting at the airport to transport you to your central boutique hotel. Here, you’ll join your Pack Leader and group for a welcome meeting before heading out to enjoy a special meal at the home of an esteemed local chef. Bond with your group over a delicious Greek dinner – complete with Acropolis views – and raise a glass of retsina to eight more days of adventure.

  • Day 02 Ancient sites & rooftop drinks

    Card image

    Today, you’ll explore Athens on foot, led by a local expert who will take you on a romp through the ages. Starting at the Acropolis, the crowning glory of ancient Greece, you’ll climb the marble steps to the Parthenon for astounding views of the city. Next, you’ll visit the Temple of Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch and the Kallimarmaro Stadium – built for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Finally, you’ll delve into the winding alleyways of picturesque Plaka – the oldest part of Athens – dotted with whitewashed churches and crumbling neoclassical mansions. Save some energy for tonight as you’ll have a chance to check out the city’s vibrant nightlife. From chic rooftop spots to acclaimed cocktail bars, the possibilities are endless.

  • Day 03 Eat like a local

    Card image

    There’s a free morning in store, so enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or head out to explore the atmospheric suburbs that cling to the base of the Acropolis. At lunchtime, you’ll be scouring the streets for tasty treats on a walking food tour of the city. Follow delicious aromas to an old bakery to taste a variety of Greek pies. Wind your way past ornate Byzantine and Orthodox churches to Athens’s Central Market for a cheese and meat plate washed down with local ouzo or tsipouro. Sample souvlaki in Monastiraki Square – the perfect place for people-watching – before finishing off in St Irene’s Square with the sweet Greek dessert of loukomades (fried donuts with honey).

  • Day 04 Island-hopping to Mykonos

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    After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the port of Athens for the island-hopping part of your adventure. Boarding a ferry, you’ll cruise for three hours across the Aegean Sea to Mykonos. Greece’s answer to St Tropez, the island is known for its sugar-cube houses, beautiful beaches and hedonistic party scene. After checking in at your hotel, you’ll head to the photogenic Old Town for a guided walk through the winding stone alleys. Then, you’ll be free to explore the kaleidoscope of elegant cafes, high-end boutiques and seafood restaurants lining the whitewashed streets. Don’t miss climbing the small hill behind town where seven iconic windmills overlook the harbor – particularly atmospheric at sunset. 

  • Day 05 Sun, sea & sand

    Card image

    No visit to Greece would be complete without some free time at the beach. Today, you’ll be free to swim, sunbathe and relax to your heart’s content on one of Mykonos’ many idyllic sandy stretches lapped by balmy turquoise waves. From celebrity spotting on trendy Psarou and the party vibe at Paradise to the dramatic setting of Panormous and the watersports haven of Kelafatis, there’s a beach style to suit everyone. Late afternoon, why not enjoy a drink at a beachfront cafe and watch the sun sinking slowly towards the horizon, marking the end of another blissful day.

  • Day 06 Free day on Mykonos

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    Soak up the holiday vibe with a free day to explore the island. Your Pack Leader will be full of suggestions and can help you make arrangements. Options might include a catamaran cruise, a scuba diving or snorkeling excursion, sea kayaking to secret beaches, a jet ski experience or a Jeep adventure across the island. With so many great activities on offer your biggest decision will be which to choose. Or maybe you’d simply prefer a day of relaxing by the pool at your boutique seafront hotel. 

  • Day 07 Magical sunset views

    Card image

    This morning, you’ll continue your journey across the Aegean to picture-perfect Santorini. The island’s unique landscape was formed around 1200BC when a huge volcanic eruption left behind a steep-walled, sea-filled crater. Arriving by boat, it’s hard not to be awed by the multi-colored cliffs rising sheer out of the turquoise sea. After a free afternoon to relax and explore, tonight you’ll visit the beautiful village of Oia – the face of a thousand postcards. With its terraces of white Cycladic houses and blue-domed churches carved into the clifftop, the sunsets here are mesmerizing. You’ll have time to wander through the old town’s maze of cobbled lanes, boutiques and flower-bedecked cafes before returning to your hotel. 

  • Day 08 Santorini sunset cruise

    Card image

    For your final day, we’ve got something special in store. Following a relaxed morning, you’ll set sail after lunch on a small-group catamaran cruise. The two-hulled yacht includes ample space for sunbathing on deck, a shady cabin, plus hammock-style nets on the bow. Spend an afternoon sailing inside the Santorini caldera, dropping anchor in secluded bays to swim and snorkel off the boat. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to bathe in a healing thermal spring. The water here is full of sulfur, iron and other metals coming from the volcano. Tonight your crew will prepare a delicious farewell dinner to be enjoyed on board under the glow of a Santorini sunset. A fitting finale to your epic Greek odyssey.  

  • Day 09 Farewell, Greece

    Card image

    Alas, your journey has come to an end. You’ve soaked up the sites of ancient Athens and visited some incredible Aegean islands, forming firm friendships along the way. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the hotel with your group before saying your goodbyes and transferring to Santorini Airport for your flight home. 

OUR FAVORITE HOTELS

Here's a taste of the hotels we sometimes use on this adventure. The hotels you'll stay in for your departure will be shared with you one month before you go.

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Moxy Athens City

A design-led hotel with arty interiors, sleek monochrome rooms with Acropolis views and even a graffiti-scrawled gym. By day, the lounge is a laidback creative space, by night it takes on a cool ambiance with neon signs and cocktails. 

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Lianos Village, Naxos

Start your day with breakfast on the bamboo-shaded terrace and finish with sundowners at the poolside bar. Set within exotic gardens overlooking one of Naxos’s best beaches, this intimate family-run hotel is a fine example of chic Cycladic style.

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Kamari Beach, Santorini

A stone’s throw from Kamari’s black-sand beach, this white-and-blue hotel features a funky mix of modern and antique style. There’s a large pool with swim-up bar and free beach loungers for guests, but the real selling point is the gorgeous sea view.

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Moxy Athens City

A design-led hotel with arty interiors, sleek monochrome rooms with Acropolis views and even a graffiti-scrawled gym. By day, the lounge is a laidback creative space, by night it takes on a cool ambiance with neon signs and cocktails. 

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Alkistis Hotel Mykonos

Set on picturesque Agios Stefanos bay, this chic adults-only hotel was inspired by Cycladic minimalism. If you can drag yourself away from the gorgeous seafront pool, it’s just a short hop to the buzzing energy of the Old Town.

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Kamari Beach, Santorini

A stone’s throw from Kamari’s black-sand beach, this white-and-blue hotel features a funky mix of modern and antique style. There’s a large pool with swim-up bar and free beach loungers for guests, but the real selling point is the gorgeous sea view.

Important Notes

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into Athens Airport (ATH) and out of Santorini International Airport (JTR).

What time should my flight arrive (in time for the welcome meeting)?

We suggest arriving before 4 pm on Day 1, to allow yourself enough time to freshen up before the welcome meeting. Check in at the hotel is from 3 pm.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

There are no planned activities for Day 9, so you can depart at your own leisure. Santorini Airport is approximately 10 minutes from your final hotel.

Are airport transfers included?

Your arrival transfer is included and is private to Flash Pack. Transfers will be in a group depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.

We don’t include departure transfers, but your Pack Leader can help book your transfers the night before if needed. If you and other Flashpackers are getting the same flight, we recommend splitting the taxi journey.

Are tips included?

Tips are not included in this adventure. Your Pack Leader can advise on suitable amounts to tip local activity guides or services where appropriate, and we will provide a suggested tipping budget closer to your departure date. Please note that all tipping is optional and will depend on what you feel comfortable with.

Will this itinerary change?

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.

What are the Covid-19 requirements for visiting Greece?

Due to the changeable nature of Covid-19 entry requirements, we strongly advise Flashpackers to consult the travel advice issued by your local consular services well in advance of your departure date. Some countries do still require travelers to comply with pre-arrival testing and/or vaccination requirements. Links to the key consular services can be found on our Safety page.

Do I need a visa?

You do not normally need a visa if you’re visiting as a tourist from the UK, USA, Australia or Canada. Please check with your local consulate/embassy if the country you are travelling from requires a visa.

From 2024, ETIAS travel authorization will be an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals travelling to European countries https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias/what-etias_en.

We recommend that you have at least six months validity remaining on your passport and can show a return ticket.

OUR PROMISE

Joining the Flash Pack comes with a few special guarantees

THE PEOPLE

Our mission to create 1 million friendships so we obsess over the group dynamic. Everyone is aged 30-49, 98% travel solo & 80% stay friends. Want to know more about your group? GET IN TOUCH

THE SECURITY

We operate using a 3rd party trust bank account meaning we guarantee refunds in 14 days if your trip has to be cancelled BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE

THE TRIPS

Our trips are made up of ‘can’t-do-by-yourself’ experiences – think staying on your own private island in the Arctic and glamping in Land Rovers on the Serengeti SEE TRIPS

THE GUIDES

We only work with trusted local guides who know their destinations better than anyone.

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