Unforgettable Athens, Naxos, Santorini Vacation: 11-Day Highlights Tour

Tucked along the southern end of the Greek Peninsula, Athens enjoys a unique position between land and sea and between the past and present. No better vantage point of this unique status exists than in the city center where Roman ruins stand alongside modern high-rises. Into this world you will step on your first day of this tour. After arriving at the main international airport, a comfortable transfer will ensure your timely arrival to your hotel where you will have the remainder of the day to yourself.

Your orientation to the Greek capital will occur through a guided tour of the city's crown jewel followed by a food tour of the mysteries of Greek cuisine. In the morning, you will stretch your legs on the slopes of the Acropolis, where ancient Greece will come to life through the temples and rustic columns you pass. After you have worked up a hearty appetite, you will make your way into the nearby Plaka neighborhood for a savory tour of the markets and eateries of the finest of Greek cuisine.

After a short drive out of Athens, you will find one of the best lookouts over the soothing coastline of the Aegean Sea. Perched along the meandering coastline of Attica, Cape Sounion presents visitors with some stunning vistas of the nearby seascape as well as being the perfect place to experience the romance of a Greek sunset. A transfer will meet you at your hotel in Athens for the short trip to the cape. Here, you can take in the impressive Temple of Poseidon and enjoy a memorable meal before your return trip to Athens.

Contrasting the exciting hustle and bustle of the Greek mainland and Athens, the rural beauty of the Greek islands will provide a relaxing and authentic environment for the remainder of your travels. After turning your back on the Greek capital, a comfortable transfer will convey you to the airport for your connecting flight to the island of Naxos. After a shuttle transfers you to the doors of your island accommodation, you will have the remainder of the day to enjoy this Mediterranean paradise.

Among the Greek islands, Naxos enjoys special prominence as the largest island of the Cycladic Isles and is covered with ancient ruins and artifacts from past civilizations. Your first full day on the island will be an action-packed blend of stunning scenery, picturesque olive orchards, and Byzantine churches. Your cultural tour of the island will provide you with a knowledgeable guide to lead you through this Cycladic paradise, and by the time your explorations conclude in the village of Apeiranthos, you will have a much better understanding of the Naxian way of life.

An immersive exploration of Greece is not complete without taking to the waves to see the sights from the perspective of the Aegean Sea. After making your way to the principal port of Naxos, your catamaran will be waiting to find a favorable wind and cruise along the hidden beaches and coves that make the Cycladic islands some of the best in the Mediterranean. As you enjoy the views, your crew will happily make swimming and snorkeling equipment available in order to find refreshment in the waves.

Greek culture saw its origins in the Mycenaean civilization, which flourished in this region in the 14th century BCE. Today, there is plenty of evidence of the many different cultures that contributed to the modern Greece you see today. Whether on the mainland or islands, this culture is sure to sweep you off your feet, and soon, the rustic beauty of Naxos will be replaced by the volcanic vistas of Santorini. After arriving at the main port of Naxos, you will travel by ship to Santorini and your comfortable accommodation on the island.

Anyone who knows their way around a fishing reel will acknowledge how hard it is for a local to give up their fishing secrets. Today, you will not have that problem as you enjoy a local fishermen's guide to the island, including the best fishing holes, some great stories, and excellent Greek refreshments. As you roll up your sleeves and partake in the ancient traditions of Greek sea living, you will be able to enjoy some stunning views of the island as well as a new friend.

Perched atop the rugged bluffs and hills of Santorini, the whitewashed villages of Fira and Oia provide a scenic environment to explore Greek culture and enjoy the panoramic views. Today, you will be able to chart your own course through the island and enjoy the day at your leisure with a menu of activities or options from which to chose. You can also bask in the ambient warmth of the Mediterranean and the attentive hospitality of your hotel staff.

For your final full day in the charismatic embrace of Santorini, you will be able to bask in this alluring environment on a memorable walking tour of the island's famous archaeological sites, volcanic beaches, and serene villages. Your tour will begin with a discovery of the prehistoric village of Akrotiri before quenching your thirst at an award-winning winery. Here, the fruits of the volcanic soil will be yours to enjoy on a cozy wine-tasting experience. Upon concluding your tour, you will have the remainder of the evening to yourself.

Today, you will be able to enjoy a final breakfast from your hotel staff before preparing to depart the volcanic vistas of Santorini. As a strong cup of authentic Greek coffee helps jump start your day, you will have just enough time for one final walk through the town before a transfer carries you to the nearby airfield. From there, a connecting flight will convey you to Athens for your international flight home.