11-Day Tour of Athens, Mykonos, Delos, Santorini & Crete

Key Points

• Includes guided tours of Athens, Delos, and Heraklion, with expert insights into each location’s history and culture
• Travel between islands by scenic ferries, providing stunning sea views and island-hopping experiences
• Accommodations at 4-star and 3-star hotels are included for a comfortable stay across Greece’s most iconic destinations
• All transfers and ferry tickets are covered, simplifying logistics for travelers
• The tour is designed for small groups with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention
• Pricing is approximately $2,197 per person, booked about 64 days in advance on average

This 11-day tour of Greece offers a well-planned combination of cultural exploration, scenic travel, and relaxed island leisure. It suits travelers who want a comprehensive experience without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves. Starting from Athens, the tour proceeds to some of Greece’s most famous islands—Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete—each with curated activities and free time. The inclusion of guided archaeological sites like the Acropolis and Knossos, along with scenic ferry rides, highlights the tour’s focus on history and stunning views.

A key strength of this tour is its balance between guided visits and free time, allowing flexibility on places like Mykonos and Santorini. However, travelers should be comfortable with ferry transfers and moderate walking at archaeological sites. The tour’s small-group setting fosters more personalized experiences and meaningful interactions with the guides, who lead you through Greece’s cultural treasures.

From Athens’ Historic Heart to the Acropolis

The journey begins at Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”, where a private transfer takes travelers to a 4-star hotel. The first day provides an opportunity to explore Athens at your own pace, with the city’s vibrant streets and historic neighborhoods just waiting to be discovered in the evening.

On the second day, the tour guides you through Athens’ top landmarks. The Panathenaic Stadium—the only stadium built entirely of marble—stands as a reminder of Greece’s Olympic legacy. Passing by the Hellenic Parliament and witnessing the changing of the guard at the Monument to the Unknown Soldier offers insight into Greece’s political history.

The Temple of Zeus impresses with its towering columns, while the Roman-era arch marks the boundary between ancient Athens and Roman influences. The day culminates with a visit to the Acropolis, where the guide explains the significance of monuments like the Parthenon, Propylaea, Temple of Athena Nike, and Erechtheion. A trip to the Acropolis Museum showcases artifacts that bring Athens’ ancient past to life.

The afternoon is free, giving travelers flexibility to explore Athens’ charming neighborhoods, markets, or enjoy local cuisine at leisure.

Ferry to Mykonos and the Charm of the Island

Day three marks the transition from Athens to Mykonos. After a private transfer to the Piraeus port, travelers board a shared ferry. The scenic crossing offers beautiful views of the Aegean Sea. Once in Mykonos, a transfer to a 3-star hotel sets the stage for relaxing or exploring at your own pace.

Day four takes visitors to the archaeological site of Delos, accessible via a shared boat tour. The Delos tour lasts about six hours and is included in the package, highlighting the importance of this island as a birthplace of Greek mythology and an ancient religious hub. As you wander the ruins, you’ll see remnants of temples, ancient dwellings, and statues that tell stories of a once-thriving city.

The rest of the day in Mykonos is free. The island’s sandy beaches, boutique shops, and lively tavernas beckon for a relaxed day enjoying local flavors and seaside views.

Exploring Santorini’s Iconic Villages and Views

Day six sees the ferry from Mykonos to Santorini, a voyage that lasts about three hours and offers spectacular sea vistas. Upon arrival, a transfer takes travelers to a 3-star hotel, where the evening is free for personal exploration.

On day seven, the tour visits Santorini’s famous towns: Oia, Fira, and Pyrgos. You get to stroll through narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings, admire caldera views, and absorb the unique charm of this volcanic island. The day allows ample free time to enjoy local eateries, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax while soaking in the sunset vistas that Santorini is renowned for.

From Santorini to Crete’s Heraklion

Day eight starts with a transfer to Santorini’s port, followed by a shared ferry to Heraklion on the island of Crete. The ferry ride lasts about three hours and offers another opportunity to enjoy Greece’s beautiful sea views. Upon arrival, a private transfer takes travelers to a 4-star hotel in Heraklion, where an evening stroll through the city’s historic center awaits.

The highlight of the next day is a guided tour of the Palace of Knossos. Spanning about four hours, the visit provides insights into the Minoan civilization that once flourished on Crete. The palace remains a captivating site, with its labyrinthine layout and fresco remnants offering a glimpse into ancient life.

Crete’s Historic and Cultural Highlights

The final days in Crete include leisure options and more exploration opportunities. The last evening in Heraklion allows for relaxed wandering through markets or enjoying local Cretan cuisine. On day ten, travelers are transferred from their hotel to Heraklion port, where they board an overnight ferry back to Piraeus, completing the island-hopping adventure.

The transfer and ferry arrangement include a stateroom in a four-berth cabin, ensuring comfortable overnight travel. The tour’s logistics make the journey smooth, avoiding the need for individual bookings or complex planning.

Seamless Transfers and Well-Organized Logistics

Throughout the 11-day experience, all transfers are included, from airport pickups in Athens to hotel-to-port rides, and ferry crossings between islands. The ferry tickets are pre-arranged, covering Piraeus-Mykonos, Mykonos-Santorini, Santorini-Heraklion, and Heraklion-Piraeus. This setup minimizes stress and allows focus on sightseeing.

For travelers, the small-group format means attentive service and fewer crowds at tourist sites. The modern transportation and carefully scheduled activities ensure an efficient travel pace, balancing sightseeing with free time.

The Guided Tours in Ancient Sites

The inclusion of guided tours in Athens, Delos, and Heraklion enriches the experience. The guides provide context and stories that bring ancient monuments to life, especially at Acropolis and Knossos Palace. The Delos archaeological site tour by boat offers scenic views and an immersive glimpse into Greek mythology and history.

While the tour does not include entrance fees for all archaeological sites, it covers key visits with professional guidance, making these ancient landmarks more meaningful and accessible.

Accommodations and Food Options

The tour provides 10 nights of accommodation: two nights at a 4-star hotel in Athens, three nights at a 3-star hotel in Mykonos, two nights at a 3-star hotel in Santorini, and two nights at a 4-star hotel in Heraklion. The hotels are centrally located, near public transportation, making it easy to explore independently.

Breakfast is included on nine mornings, offering a good start to busy days of sightseeing. Lunches and dinners are not included, giving travelers flexibility to choose local restaurants and experience authentic Greek cuisine at their own pace.

The Experience’s Strengths and Limitations

This tour excels in offering comprehensive coverage of Greece’s most iconic islands and sites within 11 days. The guided tours and organized ferry transfers streamline the trip, making it suitable for those who prefer a structured yet flexible adventure. The small-group size enhances personal attention and interaction.

However, the tour involves several ferry crossings, which may not suit travelers sensitive to sea travel or prone to motion sickness. The itinerary involves some walking at archaeological sites and city streets, so a moderate level of mobility is recommended.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and island explorers looking for a well-balanced mix of guided sightseeing and leisure time. It suits travelers who enjoy organized logistics but also want the freedom to explore independently during free afternoons.

The value lies in the included ferries, guided tours, and accommodations, making it a convenient way to see Greece’s highlights in just over a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the tour cost?
The tour is priced at approximately $2,197.13 per person, with bookings typically made 64 days in advance.

What is included in the price?
The package includes all transfers, guided tours at Athens, Delos, and Heraklion, ferry tickets between islands, 10 nights of accommodation, breakfasts, and ferry cabins on the overnight crossing.

Are meals included?
No, lunches and dinners are not included, giving guests the flexibility to dine where they prefer.

What kind of accommodations can I expect?
Guests stay in 4-star hotels in Athens and Heraklion and 3-star hotels in Mykonos and Santorini.

How are transfers arranged?
All hotel-to-port transfers, ferry crossings, and airport pickups are included, with transportation provided by private or shared vehicles.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What if ferry cancellations occur?
The tour provider is not responsible for ferry cancellations due to weather, but assistance will be provided to reschedule or find alternative options.

How is the group size managed?
The tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring personalized attention during guided visits.

Can I customize this tour?
Since the tour is organized by Mazi Travel, modifications are not specified, but the itinerary offers flexibility at designated free times.

What is the best time to book?
Most bookings are made about 64 days in advance, so early planning is advisable to secure preferred dates.

Is transportation between the islands scenic?
Yes, the ferry journeys are highlighted for their beautiful sea views, adding a scenic element to the island-hopping experience.