Best of Greece in 9 Days: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete

Seaside view of whitewashed houses and traditional Greek architecture in Mykonos Town, with turquoise waters in the foreground and terraced buildings on the hillside.
Elevated view of Oia village in Santorini, Greece, with whitewashed houses and terraced rooftops descending towards the Aegean Sea and volcanic caldera.
Low-angle view of the Parthenon’s ancient Doric columns under a clear blue sky, located on the Acropolis of Athens, Greece.
Night view of the illuminated Acropolis of Athens, with the Parthenon glowing under a dramatic sunset sky above the city of Athens, Greece.

The Ultimate Greek Island Hopping Experience

Discover the best of Greece on this 9-day island-hopping adventure that takes you from the ancient wonders of Athens to the glamorous beaches of Mykonos, the cliffside sunsets of Santorini, and the cultural richness of Crete. This immersive journey blends history, romance, and local flavors as you explore the Acropolis and Parthenon, sail the Aegean Sea on high-speed ferries, walk through whitewashed villages in Oia, and step into the mythological past at Knossos Palace. With guided city tours, volcanic sunset cruises, and curated local excursions, this all-in-one Greek holiday is perfect for honeymooners, families, and cultural explorers seeking a sun-drenched Mediterranean escape.

Day 1: Welcome to Athens – The Cradle of Western Civilization

Arrive in Athens International Airport where a JoshilTerra representative awaits you for a private transfer to your hotel. Settle into the heart of this timeless city, known for its ancient ruins, rooftop dining with Acropolis views, and lively Plaka district.

Optional Experience: Athens by Night tour – stroll illuminated ruins and enjoy authentic Greek cuisine.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Athens | Meals:Breakfast

Day 2: Ancient Athens Half-Day Guided City Tour

Embark on a comprehensive half-day guided city tour that brings ancient Greece to life:

  • Step inside the Panathenaic Stadium, home of the first modern Olympics

  • Marvel at Hadrian’s Arch and the Temple of Olympian Zeus

  • Witness the Changing of Guards at the Monument of the Unknown Soldier

  • Ascend to the Acropolis Hill to visit:

    • The Parthenon

    • The Erechtheion

    • The Temple of Hephaestus

  • Conclude at the Acropolis Museum, housing classical artifacts from 5th century BC
    Accommodation: Ibis Styles Athens | Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: High-Speed Ferry to Mykonos – Jewel of the Cyclades

After breakfast, transfer to Piraeus Port for a scenic high-speed ferry to Mykonos. Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer to your seaside hotel.
Spend your afternoon exploring Little Venice, strolling whitewashed alleys, or unwinding at Psarou or Ornos Beach.
Optional Add-on: Half-day Delos Island Tour, a sacred UNESCO site and mythical birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.
Accommodation: Vienoula’s Garden | Side Sea View Room | Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Mykonos City & Island Exploration

Start your day with a guided Mykonos Island tour, showcasing the charm and diversity of the Cyclades:

  • Wander through Mykonos Town (Chora), see Paraportiani Church, Old Port, and the iconic Windmills

  • Explore picturesque beaches: Kalafatis, Platis Gialos, Agios Ioannis

  • Visit Ano Mera village and its 16th-century monastery

  • Learn about Cycladic culture, architecture, and local legends
    Accommodation: Vienoula’s Garden | Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Ferry to Santorini – Caldera Views and Sunset Magic

Catch a morning ferry to Santorini, the most photographed island in the Aegean.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel near Kamari or Fira, and take the day to unwind or discover black-sand beaches, cliffside cafes, and boutique wineries.
Evening Optional: Volcanic Sunset Cruise – Sail to the volcano, swim in hot springs, and enjoy a sunset dinnerunder the village of Oia.
Accommodation: Rosebay Hotel | Courtyard Room | Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Santorini Signature Experience – Choose Your Adventure

Today, pick one immersive Santorini experience tailored to your interest:

Option A: Volcano Hot Springs & Oia Sunset Tour

  • Sail traditional Greek boat to Nea Kameni Volcano

  • Swim in Palea Kameni Hot Springs

  • Relax on Thirassia Island

  • End with the legendary Oia sunset

Option B: Santorini Full-Day Bus Tour

  • Visit Akrotiri Archaeological Site (entry payable)

  • Swim at Perissa Beach

  • See Emporio Village and Profitis Ilias Mountain

  • Wine tasting at a local Santorini winery

  • Sunset view from Oia
    Accommodation: Rosebay Hotel | Meals: Breakfast

Day 7: Santorini to Heraklion, Crete – Cultural Capital of the Mediterranean

Enjoy a relaxing morning, followed by a high-speed ferry ride to Heraklion, Crete.
Check into your centrally located hotel and explore Crete’s bustling streets, Venetian harbors, and seaside taverns.
Optional: Taste the legendary dakos salad, explore Lions Square, or shop for Cretan olive oil.
Accommodation: Ibis Styles Heraklion | Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Full-Day Cultural Excursion in Crete – Choose One

Option A: Spinalonga & Agios Nikolaos with BBQ Lunch

  • Visit olive oil park for tastings

  • Wander Agios Nikolaos by Lake Voulismeni

  • Take a boat ride to Spinalonga Island (historic leper colony)

  • Enjoy a BBQ lunch at Elounda

Option B: Lasithi Plateau & Knossos Palace Tour

  • Drive through Zeus’ birthplace – Dicti Cave

  • Stop at traditional pottery workshop

  • Explore the Minoan Palace of Knossos, Europe’s oldest city

Day 9: Departure from Heraklion – End of an Odyssey

After breakfast, transfer privately to Heraklion Airport for your onward flight. Leave with unforgettable memories of sunsets, history, and sapphire seas.
Meals: Breakfast

What’s Included in the package

  • 8 Nights Accommodation:

    • 2N Athens • 2N Mykonos • 2N Santorini • 2N Heraklion

  • Daily Buffet Breakfast

  • Private Transfers (airport, port, hotel) in all cities

  • High-Speed Ferry Tickets (Athens–Mykonos–Santorini–Heraklion)

  • Shared Tours:

    • Athens Half-Day City Tour

    • Mykonos Island & City Tour

    • Choice of Santorini Tour

    • Choice of Crete Excursion

  • All entrance fees, guides, and transfers as per itinerary

  • Travel support throughout

Tour Price – Save more with JoshilTerra Travels

  • Rs 1,45,352 per person (Land-only package)

Who this tour is ideal for?

  • Honeymooners seeking scenic romance

  • Families looking for history + beach vibes

  • Couples and solo travelers craving culture + coastlines

  • Island explorers & photographers

  • Europe-bound travelers adding Greece as a highlight

Book Now

📧 Email: manager@joshilterra.com
🌐 Website: www.joshilterra.com
📱 WhatsApp: +91-7696746095
🧾 Custom quotes available for groups & corporate bookings