Insider Greece

(12 Days - Departs Daily on a Private Basis)
Athens, Paros & Antiparos, Naxos, Santorini

Experience stunning landscapes and in-depth cultural touring on this private luxury tour of the top highlights of Athens and some of the most memorable destinations and dramatic landscapes of the Cyclades islands, including Santorini and Paros.

Begin in Athens, the capital of Greece and a showcase of ancient civilization. During private touring with your expert guide, visit the city’s top sights such as the breathtaking Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of ancient ruins (including the Parthenon), and the wonderful Acropolis Museum. Also explore the Agora, local markets, and the charming, taverna-lined Plaka neighborhood. Depending on your interests, other options include riding the funicular up Mount Lycabettus or visiting specialty museums such as the Benaki Museum, Museum of Cycladic Art, National Museum of Contemporary Art and Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center. If desired, take an excursion along the beautiful coast to Cape Sounion to watch the sunset at the ancient Temple of Poseidon. There will also be time to enjoy the city’s excellent restaurants and lively neighborhoods.

Next, fly to the beautiful island of Paros. During private touring, explore the island’s traditional whitewashed villages and most picturesque towns, including Parikia, Lefkes and Naoussa. Visit ancient marble quarries, historic churches, castles and museums. One day, take a private cruise, visit neighboring islands, including Antiparos, and enjoy leisure time to swim and relax on the island’s famously beautiful beaches.

Continue by ferry to Naxos, the largest island of the Cyclades Islands and a former cultural center of the ancient Mediterranean world. From ancient ruins to Byzantine architecture and Venetian mansions, Naxos offers thousands of years of history amidst verdant landscapes and azure waters. With a private guide, learn about the history, archaeology and folklore of the area and visit picturesque villages, ancient temples and local museums. Enjoy exploring tavernas, galleries and boutiques tucked away in winding cobblestone streets and, one day, visit a traditional ceramics workshop and an olive press. Enjoy leisure time on beautiful beaches and, if desired, take a scenic hike or bike ride through green hills, olive groves and quaint towns. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange additional activities including specialty culinary touring, a private cooking class, scuba diving, horseback riding and private yacht charters.

Conclude on unforgettable Santorini, a beautiful volcanic island with dramatic landscapes, and stay in a luxury resort overlooking the caldera. During private touring, visit the photogenic clifftop village of Oia, enjoy a wine tasting of Santorini’s refreshing white and rose wines, and tour the fascinating ruins of the ancient city of Akrotiri. One day, enjoy a private boat excursion in the caldera to watch the sunset and enjoy opportunities for swimming and stopping at the island's distinctive black- and red-sand beaches. Also enjoy time at leisure to relax at your resort. Upon request, Artisans of Leisure can arrange additional touring and activities, such as hiking or biking along the wine routes.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 Arrive Athens VIP airport assistance. Private arrival transfer to hotel for 2 nights Day 2 Athens Full-day private city tour Day 3 Athens – Paros Private transfer to airport for flight to Paros. Private arrival transfer to resort for 3 nights Day 4 Paros Private touring and time at leisure Day 5 Paros & Antiparos Private yacht excursion to Antiparos and beautiful beaches Day 6 Paros – Naxos Private transfer for ferry to Naxos. Private arrival transfer to hotel for 3 nights Day 7 Naxos Private touring and time at leisure Day 8 Naxos Day at leisure, including activity such as hiking or biking Day 9 Naxos – Santorini Private transfer to port for ferry to Santorini. Private arrival transfer to resort for 3 nights Day 10 Santorini Private island touring, including optional wine tasting Day 11 Santorini At leisure. Late afternoon private sunset cruise in the caldera Day 12 Santorini – Depart Athens Private airport transfer for flight to Athens. VIP connection assistance to onward flight

Hotels

Athens: Four Seasons Astir Palace, King George Hotel or Hotel Grande Bretagne Paros: Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort Naxos: Ammothines Cycladic Suites or 18 Grapes Hotel Santorini: Canaves Oia Suites or Grace Santorini

Cost

$25,420 Per person (based on four travelers/two rooms) $32,260 Per person (based on two travelers/double occupancy)