4 Day Private Tour, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, Delos from Athens

Discover the 4-Day Private Greek Island Tour from Athens

This 4-day private tour offers an organized journey through some of Greece’s most famed islands—Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos—with the option to include additional cruises to explore Delos. Priced at $1,778.36 per person, it provides a comprehensive package that includes domestic flights, ferry rides, hotel stays, and guided excursions. The tour is designed for travelers who prefer a hassle-free, personalized experience with all logistics handled in advance.

While the itinerary involves plenty of travel between islands—ferries, flights, and transfers—the tour’s core strength is the efficiency and convenience it offers. It’s especially suited for those eager to see multiple islands in a short period without the stress of planning connections or accommodations. One point to consider is that some reviews highlight challenges with timing and communication, so it’s best for travelers who are flexible and attentive to details.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with flights, ferries, hotels, and guided tours
• Private transportation and transfers in each location for comfort and flexibility
• Visit Crete’s Knossos Palace, Santorini’s caldera, and Mykonos’s lively streets
• Optional cruise excursions to Palea Kameni Hot Springs and other sites
• Choice of 3- or 4-star hotels to match your budget and style
• Tour departs from Athens early in the morning and covers four days of travel

Starting the Journey from Athens to Crete

The tour begins with a domestic flight from Athens to Heraklion, which takes about an hour. A local driver meets you at your hotel early in the morning, ensuring a smooth transfer to the airport. This setup saves time and avoids the need for self-organized flights, setting a relaxed tone for the adventure ahead.

Once in Crete, the tour visits the Koronekes Olive Mill for a guided olive oil tasting. You get to explore an olive farm with trees cultivated since the early 1900s, and sample three different types of Cretan olive oils paired with local delicacies like balsamic vinegar. This experience emphasizes local craftsmanship and culinary traditions, giving a taste of the island’s rich agricultural culture.

Next, the highlight is the Knossos Archaeological Site, where the Palace of Knossos stands as a testament to Minoan civilization. Visitors learn about the complex social structures and luxurious constructions of this ancient site, which flourished around 2000 BC. The site’s large buildings and underground tombs offer a glimpse into Crete’s historic prominence.

Traveling to Santorini via Ferry and Exploring the Caldera

From Heraklion, the journey continues with a ferry ride to Santorini. The transfer to Athinios Port takes approximately two hours before boarding a comfortable boat to the iconic island. Once on Santorini, a local driver transports you to your hotel, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

A notable optional addition is a cruise with extra costs, taking passengers to Palea Kameni’s hot springs and nearby volcanic islands. This cruise lasts about six hours and features visits to the Red Beach with its volcanic sands, the secluded White Beach, and a sunset view in Oia. The onboard BBQ buffet with seafood and grilled meats enhances this memorable experience, combining natural beauty with delicious local flavors.

Mykonos: From Ferry to Vibrant Nightlife and Tasting Experiences

On Day 3, the tour involves a ferry transfer from Santorini to Mykonos, taking roughly three hours. The Mykonos Port serves as the start point for your exploration of this lively island. The guide leads you through Little Venice and other popular spots, where colorful buildings and bustling streets create a lively atmosphere.

For those interested in local flavors, an optional wine and olive oil tasting tour is available at a local farm. This visits vineyards with grapes like Parian, Moschofilero, and Kountoura, along with olive groves producing extra virgin olive oil. Sampling Kalamon olives and local jams adds to the culinary appeal, rounding out the experience of Mykonos’s farm-to-table heritage.

In the evening, the island’s nightlife comes alive, offering a vibrant scene of bars, clubs, and waterfront tavernas, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

The Final Day: From Mykonos Back to Athens

After leisure time on Mykonos, the journey concludes with a ferry back to Piraeus Port. The transfer from your hotel to the port takes approximately three hours. Upon arrival in Athens, a driver meets you for a private transfer to your hotel, wrapping up the trip.

This last leg emphasizes comfort and ease, making it straightforward to continue exploring Athens or prepare for your departure. The tour’s inclusion of hotel stays and transportation keeps the experience stress-free, especially for those unfamiliar with Greek island logistics.

Accommodation Options and Optional Upgrades

The tour offers a choice between 3- and 4-star hotels, allowing travelers to select accommodations that suit their preferences and budget. The included breakfasts add convenience, while the option to upgrade or add sightseeing cruises provides flexibility. The private transfers and guided tours ensure a personalized experience, with the local team managing all logistical details.

Practical Considerations and Booking Details

Booking is recommended 78 days in advance on average, reflecting the tour’s popularity. The tour departs early in the morning at 7:00 am, with all tickets and transportation arranged for smooth transitions. Travelers should be aware that some optional activities, like cruises and tastings, involve extra costs.

The package includes airfare from Athens to Heraklion, ferry tickets between islands, and breakfasts. It does not cover additional tours or gratuities but provides the essentials for a comprehensive island-hopping experience.

What the Reviews Say about This Tour

While the overall rating is 4.0 out of 5 based on 8 reviews, feedback highlights both strengths and areas for improvement. Many praise the professionalism of the guides, the stunning views, and the well-organized itinerary. The Knossos Palace and the olive oil tasting receive specific mentions as enjoyable highlights.

However, some reviews point out timing issues and communication gaps, especially regarding departure times and logistics. One reviewer mentions difficulty with ferry timings and getting around in Santorini, suggesting that travelers should stay attentive to updates and be flexible.

Final Thoughts on the Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos Tour

This 4-day private island-hopping experience offers a well-rounded glimpse of Greece’s top islands, with all logistics handled so travelers can focus on enjoying the scenery and culture. The inclusion of guided tours, private transfers, and optional excursions adds value, especially for those wanting a seamless trip.

The tour suits first-time visitors eager to maximize their time, or travelers seeking a comfortable, organized experience. While some logistical hiccups are noted in reviews, the overall package provides a solid base for exploring Greece’s famous islands without the hassle of planning every detail.

If you are comfortable with ferry rides, flexible timing, and want a comprehensive, guided tour with hotel stays, this package offers a practical way to see Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos in just four days.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in this tour?
The tour includes 3 nights’ accommodation, domestic flights from Athens to Heraklion, ferry tickets between islands, guided private tours of Knossos and olive oil tasting, private transfers, and breakfasts.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Optional sightseeing cruises and tastings are available at extra costs, allowing some personalization. However, core logistics such as flights, ferries, and transfers are arranged in advance.

What are the hotel options?
Travelers can choose between 3- and 4-star hotels, depending on their preferences. The tour package includes the nights specified but details on hotel names are provided after booking.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour accommodates solo travelers, with single rooms available. The private transport and guided nature make it ideal for those traveling alone.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking should ideally be made 78 days in advance, as the tour is popular and fills quickly.

Are there any age or physical requirements?
Most travelers can participate, but some stops involve walking or standing for periods. It’s best suited for those able to handle ferry rides and light walking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear for optional cruises, and personal essentials. Travel documents and passports are necessary for flights and ferries.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 6 days before the start date. Cancellations closer to the date are subject to partial refunds or none, as per policy.

How do I receive my itineraries and updates?
After booking, detailed itineraries, hotel information, and pick-up times are sent via email, with updates provided one week prior. Communication is recommended through WhatsApp for immediate assistance.

Is this tour environmentally friendly?
The program is shared digitally to minimize paper waste, and private transport reduces environmental impact compared to larger group tours.