DURATION: 8, 9, 10, 12 or 14 nights
BEST FOR: Cultural immersion
PACE: Relaxed

Explore the Cyclades

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Cyclades, where Mykonos, Syros, Naxos and Santorini each reveal a different side of Greece. From whitewashed villages and fascinating heritage to sun-drenched landscapes and crystal-clear Aegean waters, every island offers its own unique charm. Discover picturesque harbours, authentic traditions and the relaxed Mediterranean way of life as you travel from one idyllic destination to the next. Blending exploration with moments of pure relaxation, this island-hopping escape promises unforgettable experiences at every stop.

Choose the length of your stay:

• 8-night itinerary: 2 nights in Mykonos, 2 nights in Syros, 2 nights in Naxos and 2 nights in Santorini
• 9-night itinerary: 2 nights in Mykonos, 2 nights in Syros, 2 nights in Naxos and 3 nights in Santorini
• 10-night itinerary: 3 nights in Mykonos, 2 nights in Syros, 2 nights in Naxos and 3 nights in Santorini
• 12-night itinerary: 3 nights in Mykonos, 3 nights in Syros, 2 nights in Naxos and 4 nights in Santorini
• 14-night itinerary: 4 nights in Mykonos, 4 nights in Syros, 2 nights in Naxos and 4 nights in Santorini

Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN MYKONOS

Your journey through the Cyclades begins on Mykonos, where collecting your hire car at Mykonos International Airport (JMK) sets the tone for a holiday of complete freedom. A scenic drive along the island's eastern coastline leads to Pietra Mare Mykonos Moments 4*, overlooking the peaceful shores of Kalo Livadi Beach. A refreshing welcome cocktail awaits before you settle in and embrace the relaxed rhythm of the island. As evening falls, stroll along the golden sands or drive to Mykonos Town, where whitewashed lanes, lively terraces and waterfront restaurants invite you to savour your first taste of the Aegean.

Included:

• Car hire collection at Mykonos International Airport (JMK)
• Night at Pietra Mare Mykonos Moments 4*

DAY 2: MYKONOS

Wake to another day of island freedom before setting off to discover the many faces of Mykonos. Wander through the maze of whitewashed streets in Mykonos Town, where blue-domed churches, independent boutiques and art galleries line every corner. Continue to Little Venice and the iconic Kato Mili windmills before enjoying lunch overlooking the Aegean. Later, choose between the fashionable shores of Psarou, the lively atmosphere of Paradise Beach or the unspoilt beauty of Agios Sostis before returning to Mykonos Town for dinner beneath the stars.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Pietra Mare Mykonos Moments 4*

DAY 3: MYKONOS → SYROS

This morning, return your hire car at Mykonos Port before boarding the ferry to Syros. On arrival in Ermoupoli, a private transfer takes you to Armia Experience Hotel 4* in the peaceful coastal village of Vari. Spend the afternoon unwinding by the gentle waters of Vari Beach before discovering the island's authentic character over dinner in a traditional taverna, where local specialities such as San Michali cheese and delicate loukoumi offer a true taste of Syros.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Ferry from Mykonos to Syros
• Private transfer from Ermoupoli Port to the hotel
• Night at Armia Experience Hotel 4*

Today is devoted to exploring Ermoupoli, the elegant capital of the Cyclades. Admire the grand architecture of Miaouli Square, visit the historic Apollo Theatre and stroll through the aristocratic Vaporia district, where colourful mansions overlook the sea. The city's rich maritime heritage is reflected in every street, creating an atmosphere unlike any other in the islands. Pause for a leisurely lunch in the heart of the town before soaking up its relaxed charm at your own pace.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Armia Experience Hotel 4*

DAY 5: SYROS → NAXOS

After breakfast, a private transfer takes you to Syros Port for your ferry crossing to Naxos. Upon arrival, another transfer brings you to Agia Anna Living, a charming retreat just moments from one of the island's finest beaches. The largest of the Cyclades, Naxos blends fertile valleys, traditional villages and sweeping stretches of golden sand. Spend the evening swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Agia Anna before enjoying fresh seafood at a waterfront taverna.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Private transfer from hotel to Syros Port
• Ferry from Syros to Naxos
• Private transfer from Naxos Port to the hotel
• Night at Agia Anna Living

DAY 6: NAXOS

Discover a different side of Naxos as you venture inland to the mountain village of Apeiranthos, where marble-paved streets, Venetian towers and centuries-old traditions reveal the island's rich heritage. As the day unfolds, return towards the coast to relax on the expansive beaches of Plaka or Mikri Vigla, where soft golden sands meet remarkably clear waters. End the day with a scenic drive along the southern coastline as the sun begins to set over the Aegean.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Agia Anna Living

Board the ferry to Santorini this morning, where your next hire car awaits at Athinios Port. From here, make your way to Noēma Santorini 4* in Perissa, perfectly placed beside the island's famous black volcanic beach. A 10% discount at the pool bar offers the perfect excuse to unwind before heading to Oia later in the day. As evening approaches, watch the sun sink beyond the caldera, bathing the whitewashed village in warm shades of gold and pink.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Ferry from Naxos to Santorini
• Car hire collection at Athinios Port
• Night at Noēma Santorini 4*

DAY 8: SANTORINI

Your final full day begins with a visit to the remarkable archaeological site of Akrotiri, where the remains of an ancient Minoan settlement offer a fascinating glimpse into the island's past. Continue to a local winery to sample Santorini's distinctive Assyrtiko wines, shaped by the island's volcanic soil and unique growing methods. Later, wander through the lively streets of Fira, browsing boutiques and art galleries before enjoying one last dinner overlooking the Aegean.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Night at Noēma Santorini 4*

Optional:

• Visit to the archaeological site of Akrotiri
• Wine tasting at a local winery

DAY 9: DEPARTURE FROM SANTORINI

Enjoy a final breakfast before driving to Santorini International Airport (JTR), where you will return your hire car ahead of your onward flight. Leaving behind four distinct islands, you will depart with memories of elegant coastal villages, timeless traditions, volcanic landscapes and the unmistakable beauty of the Cyclades.

Included:

• Breakfast
• Car hire return at Santorini International Airport (JTR)

At each of your stops, you will be staying in thoughtfully selected hotels.

Your hotels (or similar):

• Mykonos: Pietra Mare - Mykonos Moments 4*
• Syros: Armia Experience Hotel 4*
• Naxos: Agia Anna Living
• Santorini: Noēma Santorini 4*

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.

Discover this beautiful island on a comfortable bus ride with stops at the most beautiful viewpoints and beaches, as well as the traditional village of Ano Mera. 

Explore the mysteries of the island of Delos on an unforgettable excursion! Immerse yourself in Greek history and mythology as you discover this UNESCO World Heritage Site. This tour takes you through the ancient ruins, where you can admire the remains of temples, theatres and ancient houses. 

Cruise along the south coast on a traditional Greek boat and see all the beautiful and famous beaches, with a picnic, seaside lunch and snorkelling opportunities along the way.

On this tour, you will explore the island of Mykonos and discover its hidden corners. You will see the north side of the island with the lighthouse from where you have fantastic views to the surrounding islands, the higher regions, the lake of Marathi, and the area around the traditional village of Ano Mera and the old Venetian fortress Paleokastro.

Enjoy a pleasant day touring the island of Tinos by bus to discover its traditional villages, its emblematic church ‘Evangellistria’ and its marble culture.

Enjoy a 6-hour cruise to the islands of Delos and Rhénia with swimming in turquoise waters, a Greek barbecue on board and the opportunity to visit the archaeological site of Delos.

Embark on a half-day trip aboard an elegant yacht, swimming in secluded coves, enjoying Greek snacks on board and taking in views of the legendary islands of Delos and Rhenia.

Enjoy a sunset cruise along the south coast, including swimming in iconic coves, a Greek barbecue on board and magical views of the island of Delos.

Embark on a sunset cruise combining swimming in Rhenia, a Greek dinner on board and an immersive tour of Delos thanks to a 3D app, before a magical return to the Aegean Sea.

Learn about the island's history while enjoying spectacular views, admire the architecture of its traditional villages, enjoy its volcanic beaches, taste Santorini's typical wines and finish off with the sunset at Oia. 

Embark on a cruise around the volcanic islands of the Santorini caldera aboard a unique traditional Greek boat, to sailing to lava islets Nea Kameni and Palea Kameni, and the island of Thirassia.

Set sail on a magical afternoon cruise towards the breathtaking Caldera! Glide past the serene Aspronisi, the historic lighthouse, the Indian Rock, and the Black Mountain. Delight in endless opportunities for swimming and snorkelling, and witness the sunset casting its golden hues below Oia. This enchanting voyage concludes at the charming port of Ammoudi.

A sun-drenched symphony of whitewashed villages and sapphire seas, the Cyclades are a vision of Greek island charm and timeless beauty. Scattered across the Aegean like pearls, these islands blend ancient mythology, postcard-perfect landscapes, and a laid-back pace of life that invites you to slow down and simply soak it all in. From the sugar-cube houses and windmills of Mykonos to the volcanic cliffs and blue-domed churches of Santorini, this iconic archipelago is both cinematic and serene, a place where every sunset feels like a celebration.

Must-sees:

• Santorini’s Caldera: Gaze out over the flooded volcanic crater from the cliffside towns of Fira and Oia, famed for their world-class sunsets.
• Delos: Step into ancient history on this uninhabited island, once a sacred sanctuary and bustling trading port, now home to incredible ruins.
• Mykonos Town (Chora): Get lost in a maze of narrow streets lined with bougainvillaea, designer boutiques, and whitewashed buildings.
• Milos’ beaches: Discover lunar-like landscapes at Sarakiniko or take a boat tour to the island’s many secret coves.
• Amorgos & Naxos villages: Away from the crowds, wander hilltop towns like Chora or Apiranthos where time seems to stand still.

Culinary culture:

The Cyclades offer a delicious slice of Greek island life. Feast on grilled octopus drizzled in lemon and olive oil, or try local dishes like louza (cured pork), kopanisti (spicy cheese), and fava (yellow split pea purée). In seaside tavernas, you’ll find the catch of the day cooked simply and served with island wine. Don’t miss a slice of melopita (honey pie) for dessert, and toast your evening with a glass of ouzo as the sky turns pink.

Dive deeper:

To truly feel the Cycladic spirit, rise early and watch the fishermen return to harbour, or join locals at a hidden kafeneio for a strong Greek coffee and morning gossip. Stay in a traditional guesthouse with stone walls and sea views, or rent a scooter to explore olive groves, Byzantine chapels, and panoramic trails off the beaten track. Art lovers can seek out contemporary galleries in Tinos or Folegandros, while history buffs will find a treasure trove in Syros' neoclassical Ermoupoli. At night, let the soft strum of a bouzouki in a moonlit square carry you into the island rhythm, slow, warm, and unforgettable.

Good to know:

Island-hopping is a breeze thanks to frequent ferries and catamarans, with Athens as the main entry point via Piraeus port. The local currency is the Euro (EUR), and most residents speak English, especially in tourist hubs. The best time to visit is May to October, with July and August being the hottest and most crowded. While each island has its own character, pack light, dress casually, and be ready to surrender to the Cyclades’ irresistible charm.