3 Day Private Tour in Santorini & Mykonos at the Best of Cyclades

Key Points

• Three-day private tour exploring Santorini and Mykonos with included flights, ferries, and hotel stays
• Start in Athens, with hotel pickup and transfer to Piraeus port for the ferry to Mykonos
• Two nights’ accommodation on each island is included, along with private transfers between ports and hotels
• Optional activities include a sunset cruise in Santorini and a wine and food tasting experience in Mykonos (extra costs apply)
• The tour is designed for busy travelers wanting a high-value, low-stress way to see the islands in just three days
• Reviews highlight the smooth organization and knowledgeable guides, though some mention concerns about the value and booking process

Santorini & Mykonos 3-Day Private Tour: An Efficient Greek Island Getaway

This 3-day private tour offers a straightforward way to visit Santorini and Mykonos, starting from Athens. For $1,262.63 per person, travelers receive flights, ferries, accommodations, and private transfers, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a comprehensive yet low-stress island experience. The tour is tailored for busy visitors who want to maximize their time without the hassle of planning each segment themselves.

The tour’s main strength lies in its organized logistics—from hotel pickup in Athens to airport transfers and ferry rides—ensuring a smooth transition between locations. Notably, accommodation on each island is included, along with private transfers at every step. While some optional activities, such as a sunset cruise in Santorini or a wine tasting in Mykonos, involve extra costs, they add memorable touches to this short getaway.

This tour suits those with limited time or who prefer professional arrangement of all travel details. However, it’s worth noting that the overall experience depends heavily on the quality of guides and activities booked separately, as some reviews mention mixed experiences with value and communication.

Santorini and Mykonos: Starting with Athens Pickup and Flight

The trip begins in Athens, where hotel pickup sets the stage for a seamless transfer to Piraeus port. Once at the port, travelers board a ferry to Mykonos, with the journey lasting approximately 10 hours from pickup to arrival at the island. The ferry tickets are included, helping reduce the logistical headache of booking transportation independently.

On arrival at Mykonos port, a private driver greets guests for a quick transfer to the hotel. This organized transfer system is a highlight, reducing stress for travelers unfamiliar with local transport. The Mykonos stay includes two nights’ accommodation, giving ample opportunity to explore the famous beaches and charming streets of Little Venice and Matogiania.

The overall process makes arriving on Mykonos straightforward, although the long ferry ride might be a consideration for those sensitive to sea travel or with limited patience for lengthy transfers.

Exploring Mykonos: Town Walks and Optional Wine Tasting

On Day 1, travelers have free time after hotel check-in. The enchanting town of Mykonos offers sights like Little Venice, with its colorful waterfront buildings, and narrow alleys of Matogiania. These areas are ideal for wandering at your own pace, enjoying the lively atmosphere and local shops.

For those interested, an optional 2-hour wine, olive oil, and food tasting tour can be added for an extra fee. This experience takes visitors to a local farm with a 12-acre vineyard and 15-acre olive grove, where extra virgin olive oil and Kalamon olives are sampled, along with sweets like amigdalota and citrus jams. Live music and food tastings add a romantic, authentic touch to the visit.

This culinary excursion is valued for its local flavors and insight into Greek produce, though it is not included in the base price. It’s a good choice for food lovers wanting a taste of local agriculture and culture.

Santorini’s Highlights: From Hot Springs to Sunset Views

On Day 2, the tour sets sail from Mykonos to Santorini via high-speed ferry, with the transfer included. Upon arrival, a driver meets guests for a hotel transfer before embarking on a fantastic Santorini cruise (extra cost). This cruise typically lasts about 6 hours and features visits to Palea Kameni hot springs, Red Beach, and White Beach—all distinguished by their volcanic sand and unique landscapes.

During the cruise, travelers can swim in natural hot springs and take photos of iconic sights like Aspronisi, the Ancient Lighthouse, and Indian Rock. The journey concludes with a spectacular sunset in Oia, a picture-perfect moment that many cherish. An onboard BBQ buffet offers seafood, grilled meats, and desserts, enriching the experience with local flavors.

This cruise provides a highlighted view of Santorini’s volcanic beauty. While not included in the main price, the sunset cruise is a favorite for its stunning vistas and relaxed atmosphere.

Santorini to Mykonos: Efficient Transfer and Free Afternoon

On Day 3, the tour continues with a private transfer from the hotel to Athinios Port for the ferry back to Piraeus, departing around noon. The fast ferry ensures the journey is efficient, lasting about 5 hours.

Once in Piraeus, a driver meets guests for a final transfer to their Athens hotel or chosen location. This end-to-end organization helps travelers avoid the common stress of navigating public transport or coordinating multiple bookings. The tour concludes with all services included, unless optional activities or tips are added.

Logistics and Inclusions: What’s Covered and What’s Not

The core package includes two nights’ accommodation, private transfers between hotels, ports, and ferries, along with fast ferry tickets connecting all islands. Breakfast is provided at the hotels on both mornings, streamlining mornings for busy travelers.

However, optional excursions—such as the Santorini sunset cruise and Mykonos wine tour—are not included in the base price and involve additional costs. Hotel city taxes and gratuities are also not included in the package. Travelers should plan accordingly if they wish to add these experiences.

The tour provider emphasizes flexibility, offering both mobile tickets and group discounts. Communication is encouraged via WhatsApp, and confirmation details are sent after booking, with an updated itinerary provided a week prior.

The Experience According to Reviews

While the tour promises organized transport and accommodations, reviews reflect mixed opinions. Many appreciate the smooth scheduling and knowledgeable guides, which make navigating the busy islands easier. Some mention the value for money and the quality of logistics as notable positives.

However, there are also criticisms about value—particularly regarding extra costs for activities—and some reviews describe experiences with poor communication or misleading booking practices. It’s important for travelers to be aware that not all activities are included in the base price and to clarify what is booked in advance.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This 3-day private tour is best suited for visitors short on time who want a comprehensive itinerary covering both Santorini and Mykonos. It’s ideal for those who prefer organized logistics and prefer paying upfront for their accommodations and transport.

Travelers who are comfortable with optional expenses, such as cruises or tastings, will find this package flexible. It’s less suited for those seeking deep culture or flexible, independent exploration—as the focus is on efficient island hopping with prearranged logistics.

Santorini & Mykonos in a Nutshell: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 3-day private experience delivers a well-organized way to see two of Greece’s most famous islands without the stress of planning every detail. The included flights and ferries save time, while private transfers ensure comfort and ease. The accommodation on each island provides a comfortable base for exploration, and the optional activities add memorable moments.

The main advantage is the streamlined logistics, making it attractive for busy travelers or those unfamiliar with local transport. The main limitations are the extra costs for optional activities and some mixed reviews on value and communication.

This tour offers a solid choice for those wanting a quick, organized, and comfortable introduction to Santorini and Mykonos within a short timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers two nights’ accommodation, private transfers between hotels and ports, flights from Athens to Santorini, ferries between islands, and breakfast on both days.

Are there optional activities I can add?
Yes, activities such as a sunset cruise in Santorini and a wine and food tasting in Mykonos are available at extra costs. These are not included in the base price.

How do transfers work during the tour?
A private driver handles all transfers, meeting travelers at hotels, airports, and ports. This ensures a seamless experience from start to finish.

What should I expect from the ferry rides?
The ferry rides are included in the itinerary, with fast ferries connecting Piraeus to Mykonos and Santorini. The longest ride is approximately 10 hours total from hotel pickup to island arrival.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the package is designed to be accessible and private. The tour involves sea travel and some walking, so those with mobility concerns should plan accordingly.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked around 58 days in advance, making it a good idea to reserve early for preferred dates and to ensure availability.

This 3-day private tour in Santorini and Mykonos offers a practical, well-structured way to experience Greece’s iconic islands with minimal stress—perfect for busy but eager explorers.