greek islands tour 2024

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Greek Island Hopper

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10 Day Greek Island Hopping tour of Mykonos and Santorini

10 days, 1 country and 3 cities

Accommodation

9 Breakfasts, 2 Dinners

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Slow the world right down when you board this Greek island hop and experience how the locals enjoy life on the islands of Santorini and Mykonos. Your journey begins and ends in lively Athens where there’s plenty of time to explore ancient treasures and see all the sights.

Looking to book in a group of 9 or more?

Deals, savings and exclusive private touring options available plus if you need a different date or itinerary change we can create a custom trip. Contact us for more details

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Trip map & itinerary

Day by day itinerary

10 days itinerary trip from Athens to Athens visiting 1 country and 3 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Athens with a Local Specialist

Discover Fira, Oia and Mykonos

Visit the Acropolis in Athens

View the Parthenon, Hadrian's Arch and the 1896 Olympic Stadium in Athens

Sail the Aegean Sea on high speed ferries from Athens to Santorini, Mykonos and returning to Athens.

Travel highlights

Specific transfer information can be found here:

Airport Transfers

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver

Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted

All porterage and restaurant gratuities

All hotel tips, charges and local taxes

Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras

Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)

High-speed ferry from Athens to Santorini

High-speed ferry from Santorini to Mykonos

High-speed ferry from Mykonos to Athens

Optional Experiences and free time

On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

Find out more

Net-zero by 2050

Travel knowing our 4-point climate action plan will ensure net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Support Local

Your tour directly supports local communities by visiting family-run businesses, UNESCO sites and places of cultural significance.

Sustainable Practices

Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

Philanthropic Efforts

Our not-for-profit, the TreadRight Foundation, invests in nature-based solutions to address climate change.

You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour

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Greek Island Hopping Private Packages 2024

Discover our best Greek island hopping itineraries and packages!

Best seller: 7-Days to Santorini and Mykonos islands

Best seller: 7-days to Paros and Naxos islands

Do you want to visit the Greek islands? You don't want to lose time searching for the perfect Greek island-hopping itinerary, routes, ferry connections , hotels, transfers and everything else by yourself? This is the right place!

Greeka is one of the most popular agencies in Greece and offers services to thousands of people every year .

We offer many private Greek islands hopping packages in order to help you organize your holidays with ease and totally carefree. Our Private Greek island vacation packages depart from Athens but also from some popular islands like Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes. We offer packages for 3, 5, 7, 10, 14 days and more. All our packages can be tailor-made and arranged according to your needs. Do you need a special tailor-made itinerary? Just send us a request .

The most popular itineraries are marked as "Bestseller". Use the filters to find the vacation package that suits you the best. Want to discover more information about the islands included in our itineraries? Discover the Greek islands ! Do you have questions? Check our Frequently Asked Questions .

• Bodrum (Turkey)
• Marmaris (Turkey)
• Folegandros

Athens - Santorini Island

Discover Santorini (Cyclades), one of the most romantic destinations in the world, with our 3-day/ 2-night individual island-hopping package, starting from Athens. The beautiful sunset, the villages on the edge of the caldera, and the active volcano create a perfect setting for your holidays.

Athens - Mykonos Island

Visit Mykonos (Cyclades), the most vibrant Greek island, with our 3-day/ 2-night individual island-hopping tour, starting from Athens. Mykonos, the second most popular Greek destination, is famous for its traditional architecture, gorgeous beaches, and fun nightlife.

Athens - Paros Island

Discover our 3-day/ 2-night individual island-hopping tour on the island of Paros (Cyclades), starting from Athens. Visit the island of windsurfing, the amazing beaches, and fun nightlife.

Discover Santorini (Cyclades) with our 5-day/ 4-night individual island-hopping package, starting from Athens. Visit the most historical sights of Athens and then hop to the most romantic destination in the world.

Check our 5-day/ 4-night individual island-hopping tour on the island of Mykonos (Cyclades), starting from Athens. Visit the most famous sights of Athens and then hop to the coolest island in Greece.

Discover our 5-day/ 4-night individual island-hopping package on the island of Paros (Cyclades), starting from Athens. Just send us your request and we make sure you enjoy the best holidays in Greece.

Athens - Naxos Island

Visit Naxos (Cyclades) with our 5-day/ 4-night individual island-hopping tour, starting from Athens. Naxos is an amazing island in the center of the Aegean, still untouched by mass tourism.

Athens - Rhodes Island

Discover the gorgeous island of Rhodes (Dodecanese) with our 6-day/ 5-night individual island-hopping package, starting from Athens. Enjoy the Medieval sense of Rhodes Old Town and swim in the picturesque beaches of the island.

Athens - Corfu Island

Discover our 6-day/ 5-night individual island-hopping tour on the island of Corfu (Ionian), starting from Athens. Enjoy the most cosmopolitan island of the Ionian Sea, with the gorgeous landscape and the rich culture.

Athens - Crete Island

Check our 8-day/ 7-night individual island-hopping package on the splendid island of Crete, starting from Athens. Discover the historical towns of Chania and Heraklion leaving all the organization troubles to us.

Athens - Mykonos - Santorini Islands

Discover Mykonos and Santorini (Cyclades), the two most famous and picturesque Greek islands. Check our 7-day/ 6-night individual island-hopping package, starting from Athens.

Athens - Mykonos - Paros Islands

Check our 7-day/ 6-night individual Island Hopping package on the amazing islands of Mykonos and Paros (Cyclades), starting from Athens. Both islands are famous for their endless nightlife and picturesque locations.

Athens - Mykonos - Ios

Visit the two Cycladic islands with the most intense nightlife, Mykonos and Ios, in this island tour that departs from Athens. This island tour is specially created for people who enjoy vivid nightlife and all-night parties.

Athens - Paros - Santorini Islands

Visit the Greek islands of Paros and Santorini (Cyclades) with our 7-day/ 6-night individual island-hopping tour, starting from Athens. The vibrant atmosphere of Paros and the romantic sense of Santorini will offer you the best vacation.

Athens - Paros - Naxos Islands

Visit the gorgeous islands of Paros and Naxos (Cyclades) with our 7-day/ 6-night individual island-hopping tour, starting from Athens. Swim on gorgeous beaches, see the most picturesque locations, and enjoy the famous Greek hospitality.

Athens - Paros - Amorgos

Depart from Athens and explore two wonderful islands of the Cyclades, Paros and Amorgos, in this 7-day/ 6-night island tour. See amazing beaches and authentic Cycladic architecture.

Athens - Santorini - Naxos Islands

Discover our 7-day/ 6-night individual island-hopping package on the beautiful islands of Santorini and Naxos (Cyclades), starting from Athens. Both islands have something special to offer their visitors.

Athens - Santorini - Ios

This island-hopping tour departs from Athens and allows a visit to two stunning islands of the Cyclades, Santorini and Ios. Different in style, these two places give a good insight into holidays in Greece.

Athens - Sifnos - Milos

Spend a week on this island-hopping tour in two Greek islands that are ideal for relaxing holidays, Milos and Sifnos, in the Western Cyclades.

Athens - Mykonos - Santorini - Crete

This 10-day island-hopping package is great for first-time tourists to Greece, as it allows them to explore the most famous tourist destinations of the country: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete.

Athens - Santorini - Crete Islands

Check our 9-day/ 8-night individual island-hopping tour on two of the most popular Greek islands, Santorini and Crete, starting from Athens. Visit romantic Santorini and relaxing Crete, leaving all organization details to us.

Athens - Santorini - Rhodes Islands

Discover our 9-day/ 8-night individual island-hopping package on the splendid islands of Santorini (Cyclades) and Rhodes (Dodecanese), starting from Athens. Enjoy your holidays and let us worry about the organization details.

Athens - Mykonos - Paros - Santorini Islands

Visit the most famous Cyclades islands with our 9-day/ 8-night individual island-hopping package, starting from Athens. Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini. Create the perfect setting for incredible vacations.

Athens - Mykonos - Santorini - Naxos Islands

Discover our 9-day/ 8-night individual island-hopping package on the magnificent islands of Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos (Cyclades), starting from Athens.

Athens - Santorini - Rhodes - Crete Islands

Want to visit Santorini, Rhodes, and Crete but you get tired of the long organizing process? Just check our 12-day/ 11-night individual Island Hopping package, starting from Athens.

Athens - Paros - Mykonos - Santorini - Naxos

The most famous Greek islands in just one tour! Discover our 15-day/ 14-night individual island-hopping tour on the islands of Paros, Mykonos, Santorini, and Naxos, starting from Athens.

Athens - Milos - Santorini - Paros

Starting from and finishing in Athens, this island-hopping package will give you the chance to discover three islands with picturesque Cycladic style, relaxing ambiance, and lovely beaches: Milos, Santorini, and Paros.

Athens - Paros - Naxos - Koufonisia

Make the tour of the central Cyclades through this amazing island-hopping package that starts from Athens. This is the best package for total relaxation, as you visit the wonderful islands of Paros, Naxos, and Koufonisia.

Athens - Santorini - Amorgos - Paros

Explore the Greek capital and three of the most interesting islands of the Cyclades through this interesting island tour: see the caldera of Santorini, the nightlife of Paros, and the wildness of Amorgos.

Athens - Santorini - Folegandros - Milos

This island-hopping package from Athens to the Cycladic islands of Santorini, Folegandros, and Milos is specially created for romantic couples, looking for gorgeous settings and secluded atmospheres.

Athens - Milos - Santorini - Mykonos - Paros

Departing from Athens, this island-hopping package gives you the chance to visit four of the most impressive and popular islands of the Cyclades: Milos, Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros.

Mykonos - Santorini

Explore the vivid life of Mykonos and the romantic atmosphere of Santorini, the two most popular islands of Greece. This is a perfect package for first-time visitors to Greece who want to get a great glance at Greek holidays.

Mykonos - Paros

Visit Mykonos and Paros, the two most enjoyable islands in the Cyclades, with gorgeous beaches and all-night clubs. An island hopping package perfect to see the traditional Cycladic beauty and enjoy your heart out.

Mykonos - Ios

Through this island tour, you get to visit two picturesque and lively islands in the Cyclades, Mykonos and Ios, famous for their traditional Cycladic architecture, organized beaches, and lively nightlife

Santorini - Naxos

An island-hopping to two amazing islands of the Cyclades: discover the wild beauty of Santorini and the calm atmosphere of Naxos. These are two perfect islands with many differences in style and landscape.

Santorini - Crete

This island-hopping package gives you the chance to explore the wild beauty of Santorini and the alternative life in Crete. Do not miss a trip to the volcano of Santorini and the many ancient sites in Crete.

Santorini - Rhodes

Discover the volcanic wildness of Santorini and the Medieval style of Rhodes in this economic island-hopping package. These are two of the most famous islands of Greece.

Santorini - Ios

Book this week-long island tour to Santorini and Ios, two Greek islands with special beauty, traditional architecture, and vivid nightlife. Santorini is famous for the wild nature and Ios for the fantastic beaches.

Santorini - Paros - Amorgos

This week-long Greek island tour gives you the chance to explore three wonderful islands of the Cyclades: departing from Santorini, you continue to Paros and Amorgos.

Santorini - Sifnos - Milos

Take this week-long island-hopping tour that departs from Santorini and discover two wonderful and peaceful islands in the Western Cyclades: Sifnos and Milos.

Santorini - Amorgos - Folegandros

Take this week-long island tour from Santorini and discover two islands of authentic Cycladic architecture and wild natural beauty, Amorgos and Folegandros.

Santorini - Mykonos - Amorgos - Paros

This two-week island tour includes some of the most popular and picturesque islands of the Cyclades: Santorini and Mykonos, the top Greek destinations, and also the beautiful islands of Paros and Amorgos.

Santorini - Paros - Naxos - Koufonisia

Book this two-week island tour that departs from Santorini and explore three fantastic islands in the center of the Cyclades: Paros, Naxos, and Koufonisia.

Santorini - Mykonos - Folegandros - Milos

Depart from Santorini, the top Greek destination, and explore three more fantastic islands of the Cyclades: Mykonos with its vivid nightlife, Folegandros with its wild nature, and Milos with its stunning beaches.

Mykonos - Paros - Santorini

Discover the three most popular islands of Greece: Mykonos, Santorini, and Paros amaze visitors with their traditional character and unique beauty. These are three characteristic islands of Greece, a perfect package for first-time visitors.

Mykonos - Santorini - Naxos

The intense life in Mykonos, the wild beauty of Santorini, and the calm atmosphere of Naxos are waiting for you in this island-hopping package, perfect for relaxation in the Cyclades.

Mykonos - Paros - Amorgos

Visit three amazing islands of the Cyclades in this island-hopping tour that starts from Mykonos. Enjoy night parties in Mykonos and Paros and then discover the hidden beauties of Amorgos.

Mykonos - Sifnos - Milos

In this island tour, discover three amazing islands of the Cyclades: Mykonos, Sifnos, and Milos, each one special in its own way. All these three islands have distinctive Cycladic styles.

Mykonos - Paros - Santorini - Naxos

Discover the most famous and beautiful islands of the Cyclades. An excellent island-hopping package for first-time visitors and people who want to get a deep view of Greek holidays.

Mykonos - Paros - Naxos - Koufonisia

Discover the most characteristic islands of the Cyclades through this amazing island-hopping package: start from Mykonos and visit Paros, Naxos, and Koufonisia.

Mykonos - Santorini - Amorgos - Paros

Depart from Mykonos and discover the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades: Mykonos and Paros are famous for their gorgeous beaches and nightlife, Amorgos for the laid-back style, and Santorini for the impressive caldera.

Mykonos - Santorini - Folegandros - Milos

Depart from Mykonos and explore the most beautiful islands of Greece. Visit Mykonos and Santorini, the top Greek destinations, and then continue to the less-developed islands of Folegandros and Milos.

Biking tour to South Aegean

Discover our 8-day Cycling Cruise to the South Greek Aegean: 8 days/7 nights, approx. 103 mi./165 km by bicycle.

Biking tour to Central Aegean

Discover our 8-day Cycling Cruise to the Central Greek Aegean: 8 days/7 nights, approx. 100 mi. /160km by bicycle, level 2 - 3

Biking tour to Ionian islands

Discover our 8-day Cycling Cruise to the Ionian islands: 8 days/7 nights, approx. 125 mi./200 km by bicycle, level 3

Our packages are ideal for any age, for couples with kids, young people looking to party, etc. We can also make special arrangements for honeymooners. Discover all the answers to your questions! Frequently Asked Questions

• Why book your island hopping package with Greeka? • Greeka is rated 4.8/5 stars based on many reviews . We handle the vacation for thousands of people every year (ferry tickets, hotels, car rentals, etc). Our professional staff & well-chosen associates will make everything to ensure your relaxing & unforgettable holiday experience in Greece. Our guide and services won the Silver Award (2020) of the annual Tourism Awards in Greece . • We are collaborating for the last 20 years with many hotels and agencies around Greece and are able to offer you the best prices and vacations for any budget. • We don't just sell you a package. We offer you a personalized follow-up and assistance during and after your purchase. After your booking, we give you a special number and a specialized team is always available to assist you with any issues that might arise and will help you have the best holiday in Greece.
• Cancellation Guarantee: Book your next trip to Greece with peace of mind! Since last spring, the Greeka team has been in negotiations with hotels and suppliers so that you can continue to travel with peace of mind. Because we want to make you feel comfortable with traveling again, we have decided to extend the "Cancellation Guarantee" program, allowing you to cancel your trip, free of charge, up to 30 days before your departure. Read more .
• What is included in our Greek island hopping tours? Accommodation in lovely hotels + transportation + transfers from/to the ports/airports and also the possibility to organize some tours and activities in Athens and on each destination.
• How does the booking process work? Although we have set the layout for these Greek island hopping packages, we only make the necessary bookings after first fixing the traveling details with you. We provide a large list of hotels to choose from and all the available ferry/air itineraries to travel to the Greek islands. The final package will be created according to your needs and budget. Note : All packages are individual tours and not group tours. Therefore, you can adjust the packages according to your needs.
• Do you need to make changes to a package and create your own island-hopping route? Need some changes? Just inform us when you send your request for a particular package. If you have other destinations in mind, just send us a request for a tailor-made island hopping package and we will answer you in just a few hours along with our offer. Our Greek island vacation packages can be fully adjustable to your personal traveling details and budget. Also, read our Frequently Asked Questions & Terms & Conditions .

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Greece Island Hopper

About this tour.

In Greece, discover a place where age-old legends and monuments intertwine with warm sunshine and island-style living. Tour Athens with a local guide. Explore the Acropolis, home to the famous Parthenon and the city’s best lookout. Enjoy three days at leisure on the island of Mykonos, an Aegean paradise of sandy beaches and bustling energy. Uncover the past at the excavation site of Akrotiri. Make the most of a free day on the picture-perfect island of Santorini. From to the ruins of Athens to the bright rooftops of Mykonos and Santorini – embrace the country at its best.

Your Tour Includes

• 4 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

• The Parthenon
• Mykonos Old Town

Your Tour at a Glance

9 Breakfasts

Travel Style

Best time for travel, on tour air, customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $119.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Best time for travel greece island hopper featuring athens, mykonos and santorini.

While just about any month is great to visit Greece, there are a few prime times of the year for the Greece Island Hopper tour. Here are some recommendations from our destination experts.

Spring: Santorini, Mykonos, and other Greek islands open to tourists in mid- to late April. While the weather is mild, most find the beaches are still chilly for swimming or sunbathing. Minimal crowds yield maximum photo opportunities.

Summer: July and August in Greece are hot! (In extreme heat, it’s possible for the Acropolis to be closed during the hottest hours of the day to protect workers and visitors.) During the summer season, tours only run in early July and late August, when temperatures aren’t as extreme. It’s during these months when many Greeks and other Europeans vacation here, too, making it a busy time to visit.

Fall: With kids back to school, September and October are great times to go on tour. Greece remains very busy, as the tourist season on Santorini and Mykonos extends into October, and the water temperatures offer perfect swimming conditions. There may still be crowds at the Acropolis and other popular sites along the way.

On Tour Air Included

• The cost of all internal flights on tour or within an extension are included into the total tour cost on our website and brochures.
• Purchasing internal flights through Collette is now required on tours where applicable.
• This price continues to exclude all round-trip air getting to and from the tour, as well as any additional air segments required to arrive at or depart from an extension.
• The cost displayed is based on availability at the time of booking.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Admire the view from the Acropolis, home to the legendary Parthenon.

Discover the picture-perfect village of Oia on Santorini.

Take a peek into the 15th century BC at the excavation site of Akrotiri.

Cultural Experiences:

• Join a local expert in Athens and explore the city's world-renowned sites.

Enjoy three days at leisure in Mykonos, the whitewashed island in the Aegean Sea.

Culinary Inclusions:

Sample the finest wines in Greece during a winery tour in Santorini.

Indulge in local food and wine accompanied by traditional music.

• Santorini Island
• Oia Village
• Ancient Akrotiri
• Wine Tasting
• Taverna Dinner Show

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Tour Extensions

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Extend your tour longer with a 3-night stay in Istanbul, Turkey’s most popular city. Istanbul is a central hub for intermingling cultures and legendary architecture. As the former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, walk in the footsteps of centuries of travelers before you. From the towering Hagia Sophia to the lively Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, you’ll find an indescribable blend of nostalgia and modernity. Full of authentic flavors and legendary cultures, a trip to Turkey is not one you’ll soon forget.

• Athens - Istanbul, Turkey
• Fly to Istanbul,* Turkey’s most popular city. Considered to be the bridge between the East and the West, Istanbul is a central hub for intermingling cultures, complicated history, and legendary architecture. The city was the former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires – which is seen through its blend of times-gone-by nostalgia and ever-evolving modernity. This evening, kick-start your exploration of Istanbul by sampling Turkish cuisine during dinner at a local restaurant.
• Discover the city with a local guide. Start your morning at the famous Hagia Sophia, the Church of the Holy Wisdom. At the time it was built, this massive cathedral was the largest in the world. Continue on to the Blue Mosque,** where vibrant blue tiles line the building’s opulent interior walls. This morning also includes a visit to Topkapi Palace, the main residence of sultans of the Ottoman Empire. After free time for lunch, continue exploring Istanbul with your local expert. Make your way through the lively Grand Bazaar and Spice Market, surrounding yourself with artisan crafts, buzzing energy, and exciting vendors. Enjoy an evening at leisure.
• Start your day with a relaxing cruise on the Bosphorus, and see the city from a different vantage point. The rest of the day is yours! Explore the local boutiques or maybe taste the culture through Turkish favorites. Perhaps you will choose to go on an optional excursion to a Hammam Turkish bath, where you’ll enjoy an authentic scrub and foam bath.
• Istanbul - Tour Ends
• Your tour ends today.

Hotel-Titania Hotel Athens

Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Cycladic Islands during a tour of Mykonos’ culinary gems. Begin the morning at a local farm where you learn about the traditions and history of cheese making, a craft that in Mykonos achieves almost the status of a local art form with secrets passed down through the generations. Sample Xinotiro, Kopanisti, and Vrasto cheeses and freshly-made yogurt, all produced at the farm. Later, explore more flavors of the island at a local bakery before visiting Ano Mera, a traditional rural village with picturesque whitewashed chapels and iconic blue trimmings.

Make the most of a day at leisure and see all that Greece has to offer with an island-hopping adventure! Set sail for the tiny islet of Nea Kameni – an uninhabited island that is formed on an active volcano. Make your way up the side of the still-active volcano with your local guide, pausing at the top of the crater for unparalleled views. After exploring, return to the boat to set off for your next destination – Palea Kameni. Similar to Nea Kameni, this islet is also of volcanic descent. Jump into the water and swim to the island’s rejuvenating hot springs, where you will find ethereal sulfuric waters and therapeutic mud - or choose to relax on the boat. Continue on to Thirassia, an authentic island that embodies the traditional culture of Greece. Enjoy a Greek buffet onboard and take in an unparalleled view of the island as you dine. After dinner, make a stop close to Oia as the sun sets. Marvel as the sky turns shades of orange and gold before sailing back to port.

Take a step into the past with a half-day excursion to the island of Delos, the fabled birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. After a quick 30-minute boat ride, allow your guide to introduce you to this sprawling UNESCO site. See how the Greek myths intertwine with prehistoric ruins, passing through narrow streets from the Hellenistic age. Tour the awe-inspiring House of Dionysus, a relic from the 4th-century BC containing ancient mosaics and preserved columns. Peruse the Temple of Apollo, the Sacred Lake, and the guardian Naxian Lions with your guide before enjoying time to explore independently. Take in views of the Sacred Island of Delos as you ferry back to Mykonos.

Join a local expert in Athens and explore the city's world-renowned sites.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Titania Hotel Athens From $110 per night

Titania Hotel Athens

San marco hotel, aegean plaza hotel, stay longer.

Post Night: Titania Hotel Athens From $110 per night

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Greek Islands Tours & Trips in April 2024

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250+ tour packages in greek islands in april 2024.

Greek Island Hopping | SemiPrivate with 4* Hotels | 11 Days

Everything was perfectly organized and on time

Greek Island Hopper (10 Days)

This tour head been there best so far. Rhett only downfall was I think we needed one more day to enjoy the beaches in mykonos.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Authentic Greek Islands

It was an amazing trip!! Everything was excellent, thanks for everything!!

• In-depth Cultural

Athens to Santorini

Liked it but would have loved it had it been with more activities included. The itinerary was excellent for places to visit but day to day activities was just ok.

Sailing Greece - Santorini to Santorini

The very best way to see the islands and avoid the crowds. Loved the boat family we created. Our Captian, Jean-Marc, was very knowledgeable, very safety conscious and a lovely person.

• Christmas & New Year

Best of Greece

Great trip, great communication throughout the trip! Everything was taken care of

Bewitching Greece with All Inclusive beach stay

Our overall experience was good. They were very helpful when we had an issue and responded quickly and efficiently. We found the tour of the Acropolis had too many people, on top of how crowded the location was to start. I recommend going to see the Acropolis on the off season. I would recommend Tour Radar.

• Island Hopping

Athens, Santorini & Mykonos with 3 Guided Tours | SemiPrivate | 10 Days

Very well organized- always met by staff holding up our name when Exiting transportation - very educational tours included in the package - free days were a perfect balance and we were able arrange additional tours thru the agent provided to us. Nice rooms in good locations for walking to Resturants and shops. Communication with agents done thru what’s app were flawless with a quick response - Would recommend pkg to anyone????

Greece Islands w/4 Star stays & fast Ferries

As a newlywed, October is the best time to visit Greece and TourRadar made it easy.

Sailing Greece - Mykonos to Santorini

The sailing trip, Mykonos to Santorini, was extraordinary! The Captain, Erwin de Wijs, was not only an expert sailor, but he also introduced us to wonderful experiences on the water and in the islands we visited. Everyday was a favorite day!

• Coach / Bus

Ultimate European (Greek Islands, Start Paris, 45 Days)

2 Greek Islands Tour - 5 Days - Paros & Santorini - Premium

Everything was smooth. Great people.Great views. Great food. I wanted to see Greece with my fiance. Things went just great.

Best of Greece (15 days) Athens & 4 Islands in 15 days (Self-Guided)

I cannot recommend this tour enough. Having never been to Greece I didn’t want to try and work out all of the transfers between islands and every hotel. I was travelling for 2 months and this self guided tour was the final leg. Prior to this I did 2 other guided tours and they were very jam packed with early mornings and late nights and no where to swim even though it’s summer! This was so well planned I felt like a rich person, everything was organised and there was always someone there to pick you up and drop you off to wherever you needed. I loved not having to think about anything. Each day was as busy or as chill as we wanted. The hotels were fantastic. Only one hotel we didn’t love because it was out of town but transport was very close by. Also the Dot travel team were at our final hotel and went above and beyond to help my partner arrange a surprise engagement!! They were incredible. Thank you all so much!!

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Greek Island Explorer (10 Days)

I LOVED this tour, 3 days in each place was perfect to get to know them and do what you want! Our tour guide Kiki from Costsaver was phenomenal and when I had my back give out, she went to the ER in Santorini with me and helped me a lot BC she knew Greek and I didn’t! Santorini was my favorite! Would definitely visit Greece again!

Mykonos, Santorini & Athens Experience - Premium SemiPrivate Tour

Travel Zone Company was phenomenal throughout our trip. We had some minor issues due to 2 days of seamen and airline strikes. The company notified us of an upcoming 24-hour seamen strike and had to push up our scheduled ferry ride by one day. The KLM airline (sister company to Delta) strike occurred the day before we had to fly back home. As a result of the strike, most Delta flights going to the US were rescheduled to accommodate the people that had cancelled flights from the day before. We had to stay an extra night. The company was gracious enough to find us a hotel as we had to fly out the next day. The only issues we had with the itinerary was the planned guided tours in Delos and Santorini. The tour guide for Delos was very rude and rushed us. The Santorini tour stated that we would have time to go swimming on the beach and we did not. We overdressed and over-packed thinking we were going to be swimming. These issues did not lower our rating of the tour company. The staff at Travel Zone was great when they greeted us at each new destination. Everything was well planned and executed. We opted for the 4 star hotels. The best hotel was Pelican Bay Hotel in Mykonos. The room was gorgeous and they had great service. The Strogili Hotel was ok but too far from Oia, The garden view was not pleasing as the island was very arid. The President Hotel was in a good section of Athens but the standard rooms was small. I gave Travel Zone a 5 star because they were very attentive and did the best to accommodate us throughout the trip.

What people love about Greek Islands Tours in April

Travel was well organized.

Great sites and had a blast with our tour group! Our Tour Director was awesome!

We did the Greek Island hopping vacation in June 2022. It was the best experience ever. We were completely looked after for transportation (air, land and ferry) and accommodations. It couldn’t possibly have been better organized and I will travel with Wingbuddy again. We are looking at the South Africa tour right now.

Other Regions in Greece

• Aegean Islands (421)
• Mainland Greece (408)
• Cyclades Greece (386)
• Athens Santorini & Mykonos (379)
• Peloponnese Islands (106)
• Mykonos (90)
• Central Greece (63)
• Northern Greece (59)
• Santorini (30)
• Ionian Islands (29)
• Attica (21)
• Eastern Aegean Islands (14)
• Dodecanese Islands (14)
• Saronic Islands (9)
• Sporades Islands (5)
• Spring 2024 tours (367)
• Summer 2024 tours (398)
• Fall / Autumn 2024 tours (399)
• Winter 2024 / 2025 tours (55)
• Spring 2025 tours (141)
• Summer 2025 tours (126)
• Fall / Autumn 2025 tours (122)
• Winter 2025 / 2026 tours (23)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Griechische Inseln Rundreise im April 2024
• Français: Circuits dans les Îles grecques en Avril 2024
• Español: Islas Griegas Circuitos y Viajes en Abril 2024
• Nederlands: Griekse eilanden Rondreizen in April 2024

Greece Tours & Vacations

Astounding archaeological sites, fresh flavors and idyllic islands – Greece has it all.

This charismatic nation continues to grace us with all the good things in life, from its rugged coastlines and postcard-worthy vistas to its  beloved culinary traditions  and fantastical myths that bring life to ancient monuments. Whether you're island hopping on a  sailing trip through the Med , searching for answers at the Oracle at Delphi or enjoying the slower pace of smaller islands like Syros or Crete, a meal in a seaside taverna is non-negotiable. Befriend a few locals, tuck into a plate of baked feta and wash it down with a cloudy glass of ouzo. We promise you'll be saying 'opa!' in no time.

Our Greece trips

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We also travel to

Greece at a glance, capital city.

Athens (population 3.1 million)

10.6 million

(GMT+02:00) Athens, Bucharest, Istanbul

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Greece

Best time to visit.

Greece generally has a mild, Mediterranean climate, with July and August being the busiest months for tourism. With warm weather and plentiful sunshine, this is a great time for visiting the islands, swimming in the sea and lazing on the beach. Summers are generally hot and dry, with daytime temperatures rising to 85°-100°F ( 30°-38°C ).

By mid-September, temperatures begin to fall and crowds thin, but it can still be hot. The weather remains generally calm and balmy well into October. If you can't get to Greece in the spring, and beaches are not your primary goal, this is a fine time to visit. By late October, ferry service and flights are cutting back and most facilities on the islands begin to close for the winter. But the cooler atmosphere makes   Athens   and the mainland all the more pleasant.

Read more about the best time to visit Greece

Culture and customs

Greece’s culture is very much influenced by its ancient past. The hallmarks of Western medicine, philosophy, drama, and government can all be attributed to the mighty ancient Greek civilization – which is an incredible source of national pride. Traditional music and dance are still valued and used to commemorate celebrations throughout the year. The circle dance, for instance, dates to the Byzantine period. Even contemporary cuisine has its roots in ancient tradition.

Greeks place a high amount of value on ‘kefi’, which loosely translates to joy or passion. Life is meant to be lived to the fullest. For this reason, meals are leisurely and social gatherings are frequent, typically involving drinking, dancing and lively discussion. Common Greek customs, like smashing plates and dancing with a glass of water on your head, are considered expressions of kefi.

With more than 90% of the population being Greek Orthodox, religion plays an important part in everyday life. Religious festivals and ceremonies are commonplace, both in the mainland cities and small rural villages. Christmas and Easter are particularly important dates on the calendar, although religious celebrations are not limited to these times as there are daily, weekly and annual rites and rituals performed all throughout Greece’s mainland and islands. 

Food and drink

Greek cuisine favors simplicity and relies primarily on fresh local produce. Think vegetables, beans, nuts, and grains; grilled meats and fresh fish; parsley, garlic, dill, and mint; and punchy cheeses such as feta, kefalotyri, and halloumi. Drinks-wise, locals will savor a Greek coffee at a kafeneio (coffeehouse) or glass of anise-flavored ouzo (diluted with water) at an ouzeri – along with a couple of mezedhes (appetizers) – for hours. There’s also tsipouru (fermented distilled grape skins), raki (a tsipouru from Crete), and retsina (white wine flavored with pine resin).

Read about what to eat in Greece

Read about what to drink in Greece

Geography and environment

Sharing land borders with Albania , Bulgaria , Turkey, and Macedonia , Greece is located in Southern Europe and is surrounded by the Ionian, Mediterranean, and Aegean Seas. Consisting of the mainland peninsula and an archipelago of more than 3000 islands, Greece is typically mountainous, containing peaks, karsts, and canyons all over. Despite the mountainous topography, there is much arable land in Greece with small-scale farms successfully producing olives, peaches, melons, grapes, tomatoes, and grain for export and local use. 

Greece’s highest peak, Mount Olympus, is famed for being the dwelling place of the 12 ancient gods in Greek mythology. The islands are mostly uninhabited and are formed in small chains (called archipelagos) within the Aegean Sea. Santorini , Mykonos, and Corfu are among the more popular islands with tourists, though Crete and Evia are the largest islands. 

History and government

Early history.

The early history of Greece is among the world’s most fascinating, and like the other ancient civilizations of Egypt and Rome, Greece has many monuments still standing after centuries. The Greeks have been both the conquerors and the conquered, withstood the Plague and other natural disasters, and birthed some of the greatest literature, scientific developments, mathematical formulas, and thought movements.

Recent history

In 1821, the Greeks fought against Ottoman rule during the Greek War of Independence, which resulted in Greece being recognized as an autonomous region in 1828. This was a time of great upheaval for the Greek people, with political assassinations, battles, and plundering. After autonomy was granted, many years of change followed, with continued war and confrontation alongside intermittent periods of relative peace. The two World Wars had a profound effect on Greece, with many battles fought in Greece during the early 1940s (during the Axis occupation). Athens was liberated from this occupation in 1944 and the Greek government was restored. Greece joined the United Nations (as a founding member) in 1945 and NATO in 1952. During this time, many Greeks started moving to other parts of the world in a mass wave of widespread migration. The USA , Australia, and Europe were popular destinations in this move, which saw hundreds of thousands of Greeks immigrate to other lands. In 2004, Athens successfully hosted the Summer Olympics once again. Yet more recently, Greece has come under the shadow of the European debt crisis which has crippled the economy. Despite this, the spirit of the Greek people endures as it has for eons.

Top 10 experiences in Greece

1. hike in syros.

Cruise around the Greek Islands and stretch your legs with a hike on the island of Syros. Discover golden beaches and sparkling blue water as you traverse the spectacular landscapes of one of Greece's most underrated islands. And, after all that exploring, treat yourself to some truly authentic Greek food at restaurants serving up tasty and fresh local produce.

Uncover one of Greece's best kept secrets on our  15 day Best of Greece Tour.

2. Swim in the Aegean Sea

Cross off another thing on your Greek bucket list by swimming and snorkeling in the azure Ionian Sea. Share the water with slow-moving sea turtles and catch a glimpse of playful dolphins as you effortlessly glide over colorful coral on a marine adventure you'll remember forever. While there are perfect locations to snorkel all over Greece, the best places include Corfu, Paxos and Lefkada.

Cruise the Ionian Coast on our  8 day Greece Sailing Adventure: Kefalonia to Corfu.

3. Discover Santorini

Greek islands don't get more picturesque than Santorini. From the epic sunsets that bathe the whitewashed buildings and volcanic-sand beaches in a golden glow each night to the clifftop villages full of ancient churches, quaint cafes, and neo-classical architecture sitting on cobbled streets, this island is like something straight out of your wildest dreams.

See Santorini from land and sea on our  8 day Sail Greece: Santorini to Mykonos trip.

4. Explore Mykonos

Claiming the title of 'most famous Greek island',  Mykonos  is a party-goers dream with bars and clubs scattered throughout the island. To make your trip to this magnificent island as memorable as possible, dine on traditional Mediterranean cuisine, lay out on beaches that look as if they've been created by the Gods themselves, and dance the night away with a cocktail in hand at a club by the water.

Enjoy the island's electrifying party scene on our  8 day Athens to Santorini trip.

5. Uncover Greek history in Athens

Athens can sometimes be overlooked in favor of islands boasting pristine beaches and crystal-clear water but this ancient city is well worth a visit in its own right - especially if you're a history buff. Wander the glorious marble citadel, home to the renowned Parthenon, and take in its impressive structure and significant history as one of the most important ancient sites in the Western world.

History buffs, this one's for you: explore Athens and beyond on our  8 day Classic Greece tour .

6. Marvel at Meteora

While there are thousands of impressive rock formations scattered throughout the world, none of them quite compare to the majesty of the Meteora. Suspended more than 1,000 feet in the sky and perched atop soaring karst pinnacles, these 14th-century masterpieces are a must-visit. Home to monks for hundreds of years, this unique attraction has been recognized as a UNESCO World-Heritage listed site and remains important to the historical significance of the area today.

See these sky-high monasteries on our    8 day Mainland Greece Discovery tour.

7. Visit the ruins of Delphi

Turn your Greek adventure from a good one into a great one by visiting the sacred sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena among the mountaintop ruins of Delphi. Once considered the center of the Greek world, this UNESCO-listed site is not only incredibly beautiful with breathtaking views of the surrounding region but also offers an understanding of ancient rituals and worship undertaken by the people of Greece as early as 4,000 BC.

Step back in time on our  16 day Premium Greece in Depth tour.

8. Taste your way through Thessaloniki

This lively port city is the perfect combination of a thriving cultural scene, pulsing nightlife, delicious traditional cuisine, and storied historic sites, including the White Tower (which is a former prison and torture chamber) and the Arch of Galerius (part of Emperor Galerius's complex palace during his rule in 297-311 AD).

Explore the gastronomic capital of Greece on our  8 day Mainland Greece Discovery trip.

9. Get a classic Greek experience on Crete

Between Europe's oldest city, Heraklion, the rugged shores, forests and gorges, and the quaint and sleepy fishing villages, a visit to Crete will give you the quintessential Greek experience. As one of the sunniest places in Greece (and possibly Europe), Crete is perfect for hiking, swimming and enjoying an outdoor meal at a local taverna.

Explore this sun-kissed island on our  7 day Highlights of Crete tour.

10. Sail around Greece

You know those moments in life when you wonder, is this even real? On a sailing trip in Greece’s Cyclades Islands, that happens a lot. Learn more about our sailing tour in Greece .

From public markets and designer boutiques to European chain stores, Greece has every aspect of retail cornered.

If you are in the market for traditional Greek handicrafts, consider supporting the local economy by purchasing goods in the region that produces them. This includes silver from Ioannina; ceramics from Sifnos and Skopelos; and embroidery and lace from Crete, the Ionian Islands, Rhodes, and Skiros.

Shopping hours vary throughout Greece. Stores in large cities and tourist areas are typically open from 9 am to 9 pm, while shops in other areas close around 2 or 3 pm and reopen between 6 and 9 pm three days a week (Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday). Most stores are closed on Sundays.

Things to buy in Greece

1. Komboloi (Worry Beads)

These stress-relieving resin beads are meant to be turned through your fingers as you muse over life. With roots deep in ancient Greek cultural tradition, they make a great souvenir for friends wanting a slice of authentic Greece.

2. Botanical Skincare

Greece is home to many brands of premium, organic skincare. Stock up on luxurious olive oil soap or enriching yogurt-based moisturizers before you head home.

Travel safely and ward off evil by attaching a Mati (an ‘Evil Eye’) to your backpack. They’re cheap, available almost everywhere in Greece, and are a great reminder of your travels in the Aegean.

Whether you prefer gold, silver, amber resin or colorful beads, Greece has a huge variety of jewelry on offer. Prices are typically lower than in many other parts of the world, so it’s likely you’ll be able to snap up a few bargains.

Festivals and events in Greece

The Greeks have been partying since the dawn of Western civilization. Take Epicurus – he dedicated his life to seeking out pleasure, creating a philosophy now known as Epicureanism. As you travel through Greece you’ll encounter religious celebrations – Greek Orthodox is the main player here – that span the nation, as well as smaller celebrations that are regional affairs or isolated to particular islands. Expect food, drink, dancing and music, and plenty of throwbacks to the ancient Greeks. The only Greek tragedy is that you can’t fit every festival in.

Read more about festivals in Greece

Further reading

Greece travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

Greece is best experienced outside of winter for most travelers. The best time of year depends on what kind of holiday you’re after – whether you’re more interested in soaking up the island sun or ancient history.

Is it safe to visit Greece?

Greece has historically been a very safe place to visit though petty crime, like pickpocketing, can be an issue in well-touristed areas. Travelers should remain alert when visiting crowded places and keep an eye on their belongings.

Do you need a visa for Greece?

Greece is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Greece, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement. Other countries do require a visa to visit Greece.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your nationality. Check the Essential Trip Information section of the itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Greece?

There is not a strong tradition of tipping in Greece, particularly among the locals, but it’s become expected that tourists leave small tips while traveling through the country.

What is the internet access like in Greece?

You’ll be able to find wi-fi at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants throughout the well-touristed areas of Greece. Alternatively, you can pick up a local SIM card with a data package for continued access.

Can I use my cell phone in Greece?

If you wish to use your cell phone while in Greece and you are not from an EU country, you’ll need to pick up a local SIM card or activate global roaming before you leave home.

What are the toilets like in Greece?

Flushable, Western-style toilets are the norm in Greece. You may need to pay a small fee to use public toilets in some areas. Keep in mind that the Greek plumbing system isn’t the greatest and you may be asked to put toilet paper in the trash rather than flushing it.

What will it cost for a...?

Greece’s unit of currency is the euro:

• A takeaway souvlaki or gyros = EUR € 3-6
• Bottle of wine from the supermarket = EUR € 5–8
• Meal in a local cafe = EUR € 15
• Meal in a nice restaurant = EUR € 20­+
• Ticket for the Acropolis (including other ancient sites) = EUR € 10-20
• Domestic beer (Mythos or similar) at local bar = EUR €3-4.50
• Espresso coffee = EUR €1.50

Can I drink the water in Greece?

Drinking the water in Athens and Thessaloniki is safe unless otherwise marked. On the islands, however, the water may not be suitable to drink.

For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Greece?

Credit cards are widely accepted in  Greece , particularly in the tourist areas. It’s actually a legal requirement, as a response to the financial crisis, that working Greek citizens aged below 65 have a credit card so most hotels, shops, cafes and restaurants should offer the option of paying by credit card.

It’s still worth having some euros on hand, if only to tip the bartender at your favorite island bar and guarantee quick service all evening.

What is ATM access like in Greece?

ATMs can be easily found in cities and towns across Greece, including on the Greek Islands.

What is the weather like in Greece?

Greece’s coast and islands enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and windy, rainy winters, while the inland regions have a more continental climate with cold winters and hot summers. In the northern mountains, close to the Bulgarian border, the winters are cold with heavy snowfall , while the summers are relatively mild.

What public holidays are celebrated in Greece?

• 1 Jan: New Year’s Day
• 6 Jan: Epiphany
• Feb/Mar: Clean Monday
• 25 Mar: 25th of March
• Mar/Apr: Good Friday/Easter Monday
• 1 May: Labor Day
• June: Orthodox Holy Spirit Monday
• 15 Aug: Dormition of the Holy Virgin
• 28 Oct: The Oxi Day
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Synaxis of the Mother of God

Please note that Greece public holidays may vary. 

Is Greece safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

Greece is one of the most popular LGBTQIA+ holiday destinations in the world, with a long history of same-sex relationships dating back to Sappho, the Greek poet, whose home island of Lesvos has become a pilgrimage site for lesbians. Though same-sex marriage is not legal, marriages performed in the EU have been recognized since 2018 and discrimination against sexual orientation or gender identity is banned by law.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting  Equaldex  or  ILGA  before you travel.

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Greece accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Though access to sights and hotels has improved in Athens over recent years, Greece is a difficult destination for travelers with disabilities. It’s a hilly, rocky place covered in cobblestones, particularly on the islands, and the economic situation has meant that there are minimal public funds to improve the situation.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What should I wear in Greece?

What to pack for Greece will depend on where you're going and what time of year you decide to visit. Comfortable walking shoes are essential all year round, as is a jumper in case a cool wind blows.

If you visit in summer, you’ll need light, breathable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, swimwear and sandals.

If you’re heading to the mountains on the mainland, it’s best to be prepared for everything as the weather can change quickly.

What are some common phrases to learn before traveling to Greece?

Greek is a very difficult language to learn. However, it's easy enough to master a couple of common words such as 'hello' (yah-soo) and 'please' (para-kah-LOE). Not only will this help you communicate with the locals, but it'll allow you to form a deeper connection to the places you're visiting and the people you meet along the way. 

How many islands are there in Greece?

There are roughly 6,000 islands and islets in Greece, of which only about 200 are populated. Each island offers spectacular views of the surrounding seas, golden beaches to lie out on, and ancient old towns full of fascinating sites.

How will I travel around Greece?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport - which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.

Depending on which trip you're on while in Greece, you may find yourself traveling by:

Live like a local resident by hopping on a local bus. Cheap, efficient and fast, it’s a great way to get around Greece’s busy cities.

Some of Greece’s most postcard-worthy scenery is best viewed from the water. Take in awesome views of quaint fishing villages, gorgeous   beaches  and the turquoise Aegean Sea as you hop between Greece’s famed islands aboard a ferry.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my trip to Greece support The Intrepid Foundation? 

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Greece directly support our foundation partner, Amurtel . 

Amurtel provides a safe space for refugee and migrant women and children in Greece. Donations from our trips help Amurtel provide displaced women and children with crucial education, emotional support and antenatal and postnatal care programs run by qualified midwives and expert consultants.

Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

sell 11 Day Deluxe Greece 2024

11 Days / 9 Nights   Starting at $4450 PP (Land Rate)

Before Rome, there was Greece—the Island Empire with 6000 islands in all. If it’s your first time, expect a life-altering experience. View beautiful Athens from high atop the Acropolis. Visit the islands, each with different shapes, sizes and personalities. Lay a towel out on the most beautiful beaches in the world. Taste the seafood, meats, cheeses, vegetables and wines—as fresh as God intended.

Welcome to Greece, the Perillo way—authentic, friendly, and, of course, with excellent accommodations .

Your overnight flight to Greece may bring on dreams of Zeus and Apollo, but fear not, the gods are on your side tonight. After all – we’re visiting their homeland!

Upon arrival to Athens’ newly constructed airport, your Perillo Tours representative will greet you and privately transfer you to your deluxe 5-star hotel in the heart of Athens. You will be assisted with your check-in for a smooth and effortless experience.

Time to relax and adjust to your new time. We’ve arranged a welcome cocktail followed by a scrumptious roof top dinner with breathtaking views as you watch the sunset.

Begin your journey back to ancient Greece, “the cradle of civilization”. Your sightseeing tour brings us to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Royal Palace, the Pan-Athenian Stadium and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Stop at the first Olympic Games of the modern era held in 1896 followed by the world-famous Acropolis.

Visit the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheio and finally—the glorious Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum, with its many priceless artifacts.

After, a fun walking tour in the Plaka and central market. We stop for lunch at a typical local taverna. The rest of the day is at leisure to shop or just stroll.

Morning is at leisure. In the afternoon we depart for Cape Sounion. Marvel over one of Greece’s most photographed monuments on this half-day tour to the Temple of Poseidon from Athens.

Wind your way along the coastal cliffs and beaches on the scenic drive to Cape Sounion, then grab your camera as you spot the magnificent remains of the Temple of Poseidon, perched high on the sea cliffs.

You have a chance to get up close to the ancient monument, explore ruins dating back to 444 BC, and soak up the impressive coastal views. Dinner follows at a local fish restaurant before returning to your hotel.

After breakfast we depart for Piraeus Port to board the highspeed ferry to Mykonos Island.

On this jet-set island, beautiful beaches, chic boutiques, and elegant nightclubs - all vie for the tourist’s attention. Beneath its sophisticated surface, however, lies a quintessential Greek island. Hundreds of tiny chapels dot the island and sheep graze in the shadow of whitewashed windmills.

Visit Little Venice in Mykonos, find a table on the waterfront and bask in the serenity of sunset over the picturesque harbor. Be sure to send your regards to Pete the Pelican.

Located only 3 ½ nautical miles from Mykonos by ship, in ancient times Delos was the spiritual center of the Cycladic Islands and as the mythical birthplace of Apollo, it was considered a sacred island.

Today Delos is essentially a large archeological site, with its ruins taking up almost 1-square mile and with no inhabitants except members of the French School of Archeology who have been excavating the island for over 100-years. Overnight stays on the island are forbidden.

Return for a leisure afternoon. Evening a dinner awaits you in the town.

After breakfast the day is at leisure to explore, swim or shop till you drop. If so inclined, we offer an optional cooking class to learn a traditional Mykonian dish from the freshest of ingredients.

Today we depart Mykonos for Santorini by superfast ferry. Upon arrival to Santorini, you will be transferred to your hotel in Fira. Late afternoon, you will be picked up for a Fira walking tour followed by dinner.

Today we begin with a visit to Pyrgos, the best-preserved medieval village on the island. It is situated at the foot of Mt. Profitis Ilias, (Mt. Prophet Elijah), Santorini’s highest peak at 1900 feet.

Next we visit Koutsogiannopoulos Winery for a great lunch and of course, a wine tasting!

Finally today, you’ll enjoy the prehistoric village of Akrotiri to visit the well-preserved excavations from 1600 B.C. After, we’ll return to our hotel to relax, or explore a bit more!

The morning is at leisure. This afternoon, it’s a sunset Catamaran Cruise by the magical Caldera (a volcanic cauldron). We’ll sail the sea route from Red Beach, to White Beach, to the Black Mountain and the Hot Springs. What a spectacular sunset. It’s great to be alive!

As the night falls, a sumptuous dinner is served complete with wine and dessert. Marvel at the shimmering stars in the sky and twinkling lights on the island by night!

After breakfast we transfer to the airport for our short flight back to Athens (approx. 35 min.) to connect with our flight home to the States.

• Athens: 3 nights at the 5-Star deluxe Divani Palace Acropolis (or similar)
• Mykonos: 3 nights at the 4-Star Superior First Class Petasos Beach Resort (or similar)
• Santorini: 3 nights at the 5-Star deluxe Orama Hotel & Spa (or similar)
• Private transfers throughout
• Porterage at all hotels
• Welcome cocktail and welcome dinner in Athens
• All sightseeing and transportation described in itinerary
• Breakfast Daily
• Private Sunset Catamaran cruise including BBQ meal and drinks
• Inter-island high-speed ferry in Business Class
• Air ticket from Santorini to Athens in economy seats including luggage totaling 52 pounds
• English Speaking qualified escort throughout the program from day 1 to day 10

Dates & Rates

Triple room deduct $100 per person from the Double rate.

Divani Palace Acropolis

This luxury hotel is ideally located right on prestigious Syntagma (Constitution) Square, opposite the Houses of Parliament with the changing of the Guards and within walking distance of the Acropolis Museum, Plaka, Monastiraki, Kolonaki, shopping and night life districts.

Petasos Beach Resort & Spa

Just steps from the beach, and in the center of the town of Platys Gialos is the Petasos Beach Resort. It’s smack in the center of the finest restaurants, clubs and activities in this beach town. Guest rooms offer a flat screen TV, a minibar, and air conditioning, free Wi-Fi.

Orama Hotel & Spa

Situated 100 yards from the center of Thira, the Orama offers 3 outdoor pools and deluxe rooms with free Wi-Fi. Rooms are bright and modernly furnished with air conditioning, flat-screen TV, fridge, private bathroom, balcony or veranda, double-glazed windows and safety boxes. The property has a great buffet restaurant for breakfast.

Airfares are unpredictable and impossible to estimate at time of brochure printing. Your airfare can range anywhere from approximately $800 to $1,600 depending on your departure city. Additionally, current departure tax and fuel surcharges are approximately $650 per person and are subject to change.

Your exact airfare will be advised within 3 business days of booking your tour. You are under no obligation to accept Perillo's air schedule and quote. However, payment for tickets issued by Perillo Tours is due with "final payment."

Airfares DO include your roundtrip airport transfer in Greece at scheduled times, provided you arrive and depart on scheduled tour dates. If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, airport transfers are not included.

We strongly recommend you BOOK EARLY as lowest airfares are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Plus, more availability on the most convenient flights and best seats.

Affordable Upgrades

When you purchase your Coach ticket through Perillo Tours, you can upgrade to "Premium Economy" on select flights starting at $550 each way. For ultimate comfort enjoy Business Class/First Class for a surcharge of as little as $3,000 per person.

Security Measures

The Transportation Security Administration requires all passengers to provide the exact name as it appears on the government-issued passport, passport number, expiration date, date of birth and gender when making airline reservations. This information will be requested at time of booking for all flight arrangements made through Perillo Tours.

CRITICALLY IMPORTANT: Name corrections are subject to change fees, so please have your passport in-hand when calling us for flight reservations.

Arranging your own air?

Roundtrip airport transfers are provided if you are arriving on the scheduled tour date. If you are staying pre or post your tour, please call our office at 800-431-1515 or click here for more information.

Find Your Airport

Or call and let us help you., optional tour add-ons.

Duration: 2.5 hours City: Mykonos

We plan a special itinerary with an emphasis on the “symposium” which means great food, music ,wine and conversation regarding Greek culture , focus on Mykonos/Cyclades islands. The class takes place

1)At traditional settlement or estate with olive trees 

2)At local restaurant with reserved area Like a great Greek meal, this tour is a long, happy, satisfying event that you'll wish would never end! 

Location at private traditional settlement or restaurant with 4 Greek flavors pairing plus Greek cheese platter Menu will be consisted of appetizer, salad, main course, sweet .Family style lunch will be offered as cooked by all our participants and by the help of our experienced cook! Take home recipes (electronic file)that you can recreate at home after your experience. Sample Menu: tzatziki , Aubergine cream salad, Greek salad, meatballs in red sauce (served with side) ,sweet ½ wine or soft drinks, water are included during meal

Extended Stays

How about Crete? It’s a rich, historical island with amazing beaches, beautiful people and super food.

The extension includes daily private sightseeing with your own guide. Breakfast daily is included, but lunches and dinners are on-your-own over these 3 days. You’ll love Crete!

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My husband and I recently returned from the 14 day continental tour of Italy. We picked this tour as our honeymoon and could not be happier with our choice! We had such a great time and our tour guide, Paola was incredible! We saw so many breathtaking sights, learned so much about the history and culture of Italy and ate incredible food. This trip was absolutely amazing and I just want to thank Perillo for all their hard work, awesome tour guides, and showing us the best of Italy. We can't wait to come back!

Mr. & Mrs. M.C.

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Greek Cruises

Greek Isle cruises deliver ancient wonders and once-in-a-lifetime excursions along with some of the bluest water on earth. See ruins from the dawn of democracy, wind down on a beach, and then indulge in fresh Mediterranean fare, all in one day. Our Greek Isle cruises offer a striking balance between popular attractions and seldom-visited ports. Whether you have 7 days, 12 days, or more, you’ll find just the right itinerary in our wide selection. Wander a brilliant-white maze of shops, restaurants, and homes to a breathtaking overlook. Stand in the same place as the greatest thinkers of all time. Sample flavorful cuisine at a taverna you’ll talk about for years to come. From ancient Athens to sun-dappled Mykonos, colorful Chania to the incredible Olympia, find the best Greek Isle cruises right here.

Europe Cruises    |    Mediterranean Cruises    |    Greece Cruises    |    Cruises from Athens

Highlights from Cruises to Greece

The best greek isle cruises.

History & Culture

Greek Isle Beauty

Explore greek isle ports.

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Step back in time on your cruise to Greece. Visit the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and other ancient ruins. Follow your tour with an open-air dinner in the Plaka neighborhood.

Crete (Souda), Greece

On the northwest coast of the island of Crete, Souda beckons with a romantic Venetian harbor, Old Town’s tangle of streets, and a 500-year-old lighthouse.

Katakolon (Olympia), Greece

The region reveals what it means to be Greek: traditions that go back thousands of years, simple but delicious and healthy cuisine, towering mountains, and crystal blue seas.

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is a top choice among the glamourous. Chic tavernas with open terraces line the sea and after the sun dips down, the island sizzles with youthful energy.

Kerkira (Corfu), Greece

Come ashore to Corfu on your Greek Islands cruise, a muse for some of history’s most notable writers. Be inspired with a swim in its azure waters or wander verdant, cypress-dotted hills.

Rhodes, Greece

Even without its immense Helios statue, Rhodes remains one of the most-visited Greek islands with its white-sand beaches, glittering coves and fascinating ruins.

Thira (Santorini), Greece

Santorini has a dizzying array of archeological treasures, sun-bleached villages and world-renowned wines. To top it all, it’s home to one of the most beautiful volcanic calderas in the world.

Gythion (Sparta), Greece

Once the port of ancient Sparta, this lovely fishing town draws its name from gi theon, which means “land of the gods” in Greek. It’s the entryway to the rugged, mountainous realm of the Spartans—the fiercely independent people who rejected foreign rule time and time again.

Kavala (Neapolis), Greece

Northern Greece is often overlooked as a Greek Isle cruise destination, and many will not even have heard of the Macedonian port of Kavála. But the city, and the region it opens into, are both picturesque and culturally important, with a history that encompasses classical times as well as the more modern era.

Mytilene, Nisos Lesbos

Lesbos, Greece is well known for olives and ouzo production, and visitors can see evidence of both everywhere. The island's charms extend beyond those pleasures, though: It’s a beautiful place of open plains, sweeping hills, and sandy beaches with views of Turkey across the water.

Pylos, Greece

Pine-covered hills wrap around the lovely town of Pylos (often referred to as Navarino, its Italian name), in the Messenia region of Greece's Peloponnese. Cobblestoned streets lead down to the harbor, where outdoor cafés overlook the bay. This pleasant scene, however, belies a turbulent history.

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Which Greek Island Should You Visit in 2024?

By Rachel Howard and Condé Nast Traveller

Lord Byron was on to something when he waxed lyrical about the Greek islands. But with more than 200 inhabited to choose from, which ones are the very best Greek islands? Here regular isle-hopper Rachel Howard reveals the ones to get in a speedboat for in 2024, with recommendations on where to stay chosen by the editors of Condé Nast Traveler .

Here, we've also ranked the best Greek islands, from 1 to 29. While we love and highly recommend every island on this list—and advocate visiting all of them throughout your lifetime, if you can—we've also edited the list in order so if it's your first time planning a visit to this magical corner of the world, or you just want to branch out from your usual summer isle trip, we can help you choose where to go next. The order below reflects our well-traveled team's personal opinions, the landscapes, food, beaches, hotel options, and more.

For more recommendations, see our round up of the best Greek Islands hotels .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler  are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Best of the Greek islands for: A photogenic and dramatic coastline

Everyone knows the  Venus de Milo (which has stood in the Louvre since the 19th century). Until recently, very few had heard of Milos, the volcanic island where Aphrodite’s graceful likeness was discovered. Those in the know jealously guard their treasured island, and especially its 70 (or more) beaches — surely the most diverse and dramatic coastline of all the Greek Islands.

Little by little, though, Milos is being discovered. Instagram is saturated with no-filter shots of the undulating white cliffs at Sarakiniko, the bottle-green swimming hole at Papafragas, and colorful, rickety syrmata, tiny boat houses wedged between rock and sea. (You’ll find the best photo opportunities at Klima and Mandrakia). This painterly landscape was shaped by the minerals that have long been a source of wealth–obsidian, alum, barite and sulphur, which still bubbles up in the island’s many hot springs. As the 11,000-year-old mining industry is gradually giving way to tourism, several chic hotels have made an appearance. Go now, before the trickle of visitors turns into a tide.

Where to stay on Milos:

• For romance: Milos Cove
• For families: Captain Zeppos
• For an eco-retreat: Skinopi Lodge
• For an authentic stay: Achinos By The Sea

Best of the Greek islands for: A long weekend with the art crowd

You know when Dakis Joannou, Greece's foremost art collector, is on Hydra. His yacht,  Guilty , is painted in gaudy 'camouflage' by Jeff Koons. Every summer, Joannou invites big hitters such as Matthew Barney and David Shrigley to create site-specific installations in the Greek island's old slaughterhouse. Even the school is commandeered for exhibitions in the summer holidays. Car-free and protected by a preservation order, Hydra has always been the artists' muse of the Greek Islands. Leonard Cohen set the scene in the 60s; now Brice Marden, Sadie Coles and Juergen Teller have homes here. Athenian artists take up residence at the School of Fine Arts, one of the vast, grey, stone mansions overlooking the horseshoe harbour. Musicians of all stripes rehearse and record at the  Old Carpet Factory , an 18th-century residence whose double-height ceilings and underground cistern have incredible acoustics.

Less than two hours from Athens , Hydra fills up with chic Greeks at weekends. They come to disconnect and slow down, but also to see and be seen. Wily cats and weary donkeys patrol the back alleys, but all the action happens along the waterfront. Oh look! There's Olivia Palermo at The Pirate Bar and Chloë Sevigny shaking her tail feather at Hydronetta beach bar. Who cares if there are barely any beaches? You can always find a slab of sun-baked rock from which to leap rock from which to dive into the clearest water in the world. See our full guide to  Hydra, Greece .

Where to stay in Hydra:

• For a boutique stay: Orloff Boutique Hotel
• For a beachfront stay: Onos Residence
• For a group: Mirkella sleeps 12 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Big, fat Greek feasts

Sifnos owes its foodie reputation to its most famous descendant, Nicholas Tselementes, who wrote the first Greek cookbook in 1910. Forget souvlaki and moussaka: here, chickpea croquettes and stewed capers are taverna staples. The island is peppered with potteries that produce the earthenware casseroles used for revitháda (baked chickpeas) and mastelo (lamb with red wine and dill). Traditional dishes are slow-roasted in a wood-fired oven at To Meraki tou Manoli, a local institution on sheltered Vathy bay. (While you’re there, invest in some timeless tableware from Atsonios Ceramics, in business since 1870.) In postcard-pretty Artemonas, all roads lead to Theodorou, purveyors of nougat wafers and almond sweets since 1933. You can eat in your bikini at Omega3 , where locally foraged and fished ingredients are given an exotic twist: baby-calamari tempura, smoked eel in chilled melon soup with wasabi, and chickpea sorbet with wild apricot jam and pine nuts. In 2021, Omega3’s previous energetic head chef Giorgos Samoilis opened Cantina , an equally experimental restaurant in Seralia, a pretty little bay below the beautiful medieval village of Kastro. Lobsters are plucked straight from the sea at Heronissos, then served with spaghetti on the jetty. It's just the right balance of low-key luxury and unspoiled authenticity. Rather like Sifnos itself.

Where to stay in Sifnos:

• For romance:  NÓS
• For a boutique stay:  Verina Astra
• For families:  Verina Terra
• For a laidback stay: Sifnos House
• For something unique:  This windmill Airbnb

4. Santorini

Best of the Greek islands for: Honeymooners and first-timers

Cooing American and Chinese honeymooners line up to take selfies as the sun sinks behind Santorini's caldera, the flooded volcanic crater. That view may be a romantic cliché, but it still takes your breath away. A volcanic explosion blew out Santorini's heart 3,500 years ago, leaving black-sand beaches, vertiginous cliffs in psychedelic hues, and swirling rumors about Atlantis in its wake. The eruption also preserved the ancient city of Akrotiri under layers of ash, and created fertile ground for exceptional Assyrtiko grapes and Vinsanto wines. (Sample them at Domaine Sigalas and Vassaltis wineries, paired with delicate dishes that let the grapes sing.)

Apart from a boat trip to the smoldering crater of Nea Kameni and hot springs at Palia Kameni, there's not much to do but gaze at the mesmerizing views from your suite, dangling on the edge of the caldera. Most places to stay are concentrated in Oia and Imerovigli, but the inland village of Pyrgos is up-and-coming. Go for a twilight Bellini at Franco's Cafe and visit Emporio, with its smattering of old-school coffee shops and Airbnbs. For a glimpse of Santorini before the onslaught of cruise ships and Instagrammers, explore the quieter south (but keep your discoveries to yourself).

Where to stay in Santorini:

• For laidback luxury: Perivolas
• For glamour: Nobu Hotel
• For romance: Andronis Boutique Hotel
• For the wine: The Vasilicos
• For groups: Elilia Superior Villa sleeps 8 people
• For something unique: this cave house

Stacey Lastoe

Kimberly Wilson

Matt Kirouac

Best of the Greek islands for: Culture and off-season cachet

On Syros, capital of the Cyclades, you won’t find sugar-cube villages and whitewashed lanes. The colorful 19th-century city of Ermoupoli is built on twin peaks–one Orthodox, the other Catholic, the heritage of a long Venetian occupation. There’s still a strong Italian flavour in Ermoupoli’s marble piazzas, princely mansions, and miniature replica of La Scala, the showpiece of a year-round cultural scene. Syros hosts festivals of animation, dance, digital art, film, classical music, jazz and rembetiko, the Greek blues popularised by local musician Markos Vamvakaris. A few rembetiko joints have survived in the upper town, Ano Syros.

Once Greece’s ship-building centre, Syros' industry centres around the yard in Neorio. But the most splendid legacy of the shipping industry are the manor houses in Vaporia and Poseidonia. The beaches are slightly less splendid—with the exception of Delfini, Varvarousa, and Aetos in the wild north. But fabulous seaside tavernas abound:  Iliovassilemar on Galissas beach for samphire and sea-urchin salad and rockfish soup;  Allou Yialou in the pretty seaside village of Kini for lobster with orzo. In Ermoupoli, the finest places to eat and drink are around Androu Street: Ousyra , where the chef plates up Greek-ified pasta and beautifully balanced salads, and  Django Gelato , where the pistachio gelato reigns supreme, and the fig sorbet made in August can sell out in less than half an hour. Perhaps the prettiest restaurant of all is  Mazi , a vine-covered courtyard festooned with bougainvillea. Before you leave, stock up on loukoumi (rose-tinted Turkish delight) and San Michali cheese from  Prekas delicatessen , and visit Zeyelo for hand-made wooden sunglasses. For more recommendations, see our insider  guide to Syros .

Where to stay on Syros:

• For a boutique stay: Xenon Apollonos
• For glamour: Hotel Ploes
• For romance: Aristide Hotel
• For groups: Villa Syros sleeps 12 people

6. Folegandros

Best of the Greek islands for: Authenticity with a bohemian buzz

The village square should be your first port of call on any Greek island: settle into your favorite café, pick up local gossip, and adjust to the languid pace of life. On Folegandros, this presents a challenge: the cliff-hanger capital, Hora, has not one but three squares, each brimming with a jumble of cafés, tavernas and dinky raki bars. We recommend  Pounta , where the Danish owner makes and sells the lopsided cups and bowls in which your coffee and Greek yogurt are served. From Hora, zigzagging steps lead up, up and away to the only real landmark, Panagia church; make the pilgrimage at sunrise (perhaps after an all-nighter at diminutive Astarti bar).

Folegandros–which means ‘iron hard’ in ancient Greek–is as barren as its name suggests. Fruit trees are protected from fierce winds by rings of stones. You won’t find sandy beaches lined with sunbeds; only limpid, pebbly coves, such as Katergo, Ambeli and Livadaki. Set in the rocks above Agios Nikolaos bay, Papalagi serves big fat prawns and whole grilled octopus on a wooden deck aligned with the horizon. Water taxis service some beaches in high season; otherwise you’ll have to scramble down rocky footpaths to cool off. On your way home, stop at Mimis or Synantisi in Ano Meria for the island speciality of  matsata (goat or rabbit stew with hand-made pasta).

Where to stay on Folegandros:

• For views: Anemomilos
• For families: Anemi
• For beach access: Blue Sand Hotel
• For a private stay: Maistros

Best of the Greek islands for: Antiquities, active adventures and sunshine all year round

Greece's largest island, the birthplace of Zeus,  Crete has ancient ruins, snow-capped peaks and beaches galore. Sunshine is pretty much guaranteed year round, but spring is especially lovely for rambling and sightseeing. The Minoan palace of Knossos is glorious, despite the steady stream of coach parties (go early: it opens at 8 ); but there are stunning ancient sites, such as Aptera and Malia, peppered all over the island. The 16km-long Samaria Gorge also teems with pilgrims, but there are hundreds more canyons to explore, often with only the elusive kri-kri (wild goats) for company. One of the most staggeringly beautiful hikes is through the Aradena Gorge in the wild and rugged Sfakia region, ending at Marmara, a translucent cove on the Libyan Sea, for a cooling dip and lunch at one of Crete’s finest tavernas, Dialiskari.

With the exception of Elounda–a pocket of bling popular with oligarchs–the north-east coast is scarred by over-development. Head west to the Amari valley or Apokoronas for authentic villages surrounded by olive and orange groves. Or go south, where you'll find the best beaches in Crete–try Ligres, Sougia, or Kedrodasos. Alternatively, take a back-to-nature break at Milia Mountain Retreat , a 16th-century hamlet powered entirely by solar energy. Everything on the mostly organic menu is grown, caught or reared locally. In fact, it’s almost impossible not to eat well on Crete, which produces superb cheese, honey and olive oil, as well as delicious goat, rabbit and smoked-pork dishes. Time slows almost to a standstill in the mountain villages, where locals with formidable whiskers welcome you with shots of raki (Cretan grappa) for breakfast and celebrate saints' days with a volley of gunshots. Even the road signs are peppered with bullet holes.

Where to stay in Crete:

• For families: Domes Zeen Chania and Cretan Malia Park
• For romance: Acros Wellness Suites
• For a great location: Blue Palace Resort & Spa
• For a village stay: Kapsaliana Village
• For a private stay: Azure Awe
• For a group: Cien sleeps 16 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Character and lush landscapes

Corfu is the It Girl of the Ionian islands. The cosmopolitan capital is a charming clash of Venetian, British, and French colonial influences. Evenings kick off with cocktails on the Liston (a colonnade modelled on Paris's Rue de Rivoli), followed by dinner at  Salto , an unpretentious wine bar and bistro on the edge of the Old Town.

With its pastel villages, rolling olive groves and grand manor houses, the rest of the island recalls Tuscany—but with some of the  best beaches in Europe . The smart set stay on Corfu's north-east coast (nicknamed Kensington-on-Sea) where the Rothschilds like to unwind. It's wall-to-wall Sloanes and speedboats at Agni, a tiny fishing village with three rival tavernas (Toula's is the best). From here, you can rent a boat and putter to your own cove: perhaps Nissaki, Agios Stefanos or Kerasia. These idyllic bays still resemble the 'delectable landscape' that Lawrence Durrell fell for in the 1930s–now back in vogue thanks to the ITV series, The Durrells . Or venture inland to  Ambelonas , an enchanting winery, restaurant and cooking school that specializes in unusual local dishes, such as roast pork with quince and crème brûlée with Corfiot kumquats. Steer clear of the south, especially Kavos–unless you happen to like wet T-shirt contests.

Where to stay in Corfu:

• For a standout spa: Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa
• For all-inclusive: Ikos Dassia
• For romance: Domes Miramare
• For families: Domes of Corfu
• For groups: Emerald Oasis sleeps 10 people

Best of the Greek islands for: Endless sandy beaches

Naxiots once made considerable fortunes exporting potatoes, cheese, marble and emery. Locals bequeathed undesirable seaside plots–useless for farming–to their laziest offspring. When tourists cottoned on to the island's scores of fabulous beaches, these wastrels found themselves sitting on gold mines. The west coast of Naxos is fringed with mile upon mile of powdery sands. Agios Prokopios and Agia Anna delight toddlers and teenagers alike with their shallow waters and beach bars. As you head south, the beaches get wilder: Plaka, where you can gallop across the dunes on horseback, Mikri Vigla for windsurfing and kitesurfing, and crystal-clear Kastraki.

Should you tire of frolicking on the shore, three supersized kouros statues are hidden in the hills and there are dozens of drowsy villages to explore. Try kitron, the local citron liqueur, at the Vallindras distillery in Halki or sample homemade wine and arseniko cheese under the plane trees in Ano Potamia village. No wonder Herodotus described Naxos as “the happiest of islands."

Where to stay in Naxos:

• For romance:  Naxian on the Beach
• For laidback luxury:  Kavos
• For a private stay:  Eye of Naxos Sky
• For families: Hidden Hill

10. Cephalonia / Kefalonia

Best of the Greek islands for: Laidback family holidays

Casting Penélope Cruz as a Greek peasant is improbable. Shooting a World War II film on an island flattened by an earthquake in 1953 sounds even crazier. And yet  Captain Corelli's Mandolin put under-the-radar Kefalonia (Cephalonia) in the spotlight in 2001. The dramatic scenery still lives up to the hype: milky-white Myrtos beach, the island's pin-up; pine-fringed Horgota beach; and the giddying heights of Mount Ainos, a national park where wild horses roam. Outdoor Kefalonia organises four-wheel-drive safaris, if you can't face the hairpin bends. Surprisingly, the two prettiest seaside villages–Assos and Fiskardo–didn't make the cut. But the yachting set has discovered their photogenic charm. Everyone from John Galliano to Jon Bon Jovi has jumped ashore to taste the seafood pasta at  Tassia Restaurant in Fiskardo, washed down with local Robola and Muscat wines. (We recommend the organic muscat from the 19th century  Haritatos Vineyard in Lixouri, also an enchanting setting for wine tasting.) The rocky coastline around Fiskardo is deliciously pristine: go snorkeling at tiny Dafnoudi or Emblisi, flanked by slabs of limestone that turn the water electric blue.

Where to stay in Kefalonia:

• For an adult-only retreat:  F Zeen
• For families:  Emelisse Nature Resort
• For groups:  Odyssea sleeps 12 people
• For a private stay:  Wilderness Whisperings house
• For something unique:  This sky high villa

Best of the Greek islands for: Walking trails and wild beaches

Divided by four mountain ranges, Andros is like several islands in one. Lush valleys, rushing streams, handsome villages, and wild, windswept beaches are connected by a well-maintained network of hiking trails, making this an excellent off-season destination. Many of Greece’s powerful shipping dynasties hail from Andros; they have bequeathed the island with grand estates, splendid museums, and an elegant neoclassical capital. The marble-paved streets of Chora are full of unexpected treasures: a tiny, open-air cinema showing black-and-white classics, great pizzas and cocktails in a  converted slaughterhouse , sublime sundresses and sandals at  Waikiki boutique. Inland, there are fortified monasteries, ice-cold waterfalls, and fantastic farm-to-table tavernas like Kosses in Ano Fellos, Fofo’s in Livadia, and Tou Josef in Pitrofos to explore. And then there are the mind-blowing beaches: from the spectacular sandy bays of Zorkos, Vitali, and Vori on the north coast to the mellow beach bars at Apothikes and Chryssi Ammos, or the sunset views and old-school fish taverna at Agia Marina, there are options for whichever way the wind or your mood is blowing. You could spend weeks on Andros and still have more to discover.

Where to stay on Andros:

• For a guesthouse stay: Melisses
• For privacy: Onar
• For a village stay: Touchstone House
• For groups: Five Star Greece

12. Serifos

Best of the Greek islands for: Naturists and purists

The sleeper hit of the Cyclades, Serifos is the summer retreat of interior designers and architects who prefer to keep the sandy beaches to themselves. (One French home-owner is so protective of her hideaway that she tells all her friends she summers on nearby Sifnos.) Even in August, you’ll find coves where you can skinny dip in blissful solitude. That’s because the best beaches (such as Kalo Ambeli and Skala) are only accessible via bone-rattling dirt roads or donkey tracks. Better still, rent a motor boat from the laidback harbor, Livada. Make sure to moor outside Anna’s taverna on Sikamia beach for freshly caught fish and garden-grown salads.

In the cascading hilltop Hora, there’s barely any nightlife, no smart boutiques or fancy hotels. But who cares when you can kick back with fennel pie and raki at  Stou Stratou , pick up Natassa Kalogeropoulou’s minimalist ceramics at  Kerameio , and listen to Greek folk in the open-air amphitheatre? And all less than three hours from Athens.

Where to stay on Serifos:

• For a boutique stay: Verina Astra
• For romance: Chill & Co.
• For groups: Lenia sleeps 12 people
• For something unique: This 19th century captain’s house

13. Mykonos

Best of the Greek islands for: Decadent parties and five-star hotels

Mykonos had LGBTQ+ clubs and sunrise parties long before rave culture was even invented. Its bohemian allure hasn’t faded since the 1960s, although the once naked beaches now have nail bars, personal trainers and house music pumping out all hours. The influx of supermodels and superyachts has inspired hot new hotels and restaurants. The hippest place to show off your abs is  Scorpios , a louche beach bar that puts Ibiza's finest in the shade (book a cabana to watch the sunset). After hours, it's always Astra, where you might find Keith Richards chatting up Karolina Kurkova. The LGBTQ+ crowd has dwindled, but drag queens and oiled bodybuilders make a splash at Jackie O' , overlooking Super Paradise beach.

If the glitzy excess gets too much, escape to Fokos taverna for superfood salads and lamb chops, or Kiki's, an off-grid grill-shack overlooking Agios Sostis bay, where even Naomi Campbell has to queue for a table. Or cruise over to the tiny island of Delos, an archaeological sanctuary that once thronged with 30,000 sun worshippers (the temple is dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of light).

Where to stay in Mykonos:

• For romance: Cali Mykonos
• For the party scene: Soho Roc House
• For a laidback stay: Once in Mykonos
• For families: Santa Marina resort
• For groups: Bluewave XL sleeps 36 people

14. Zakynthos / Zante

Best of the Greek islands for: Seaside holidays with toddlers or teens

Zakynthos, or Zante, has shrugged off its reputation as a destination for lads on tour (as long as you avoid Lagana and the built-up south coast) by rebranding itself as one of Greece's greenest islands. It's not just the emerald hills sliding into the electric blue Ionian: much of the south coast is a nature reserve where endangered loggerhead turtles hatch in the sand. The turtle beaches are off limits, but there are countless coves in every hue of green and blue. Favourites are tiny Xigia, with its bubbling underwater springs, and craggy Porto Limnionas, with sunbeds wedged between the rocks and palm-frond umbrellas positioned between the pine trees. Skinari is the starting point for boat trips to the most famous landmarks, the Blue Caves and Shipwreck Beach, where a rusting liner leans into the chalky cliffs. From Keri, you can cast away for Marathonisi island, another turtle sanctuary.

The mountainous interior, all sleepy stone villages poking out of pine forests, is great for hikes and bikes. ( Eco Zante can arrange outdoor activities guided by insiders.)  Askos Stone Park is a wildlife sanctuary inhabited by deer, chinchilla, and dozens of other species. After exploring the Venetian castle high above the harbour, treat the kids to thin-crust pizzas (with grown-up toppings like bresaola, aubergine, and gorgonzola) at  Alesta on cute St Mark's Square.

Where to stay in Zante:

• For families: Porto Zante
• For romance: Zante Maris Suites and Olea All Suite Hotel
• For a private stay: Halcyon Seas
• For a group: Ble Kyma sleeps 12 people

15. Amorgos

Best of the Greek islands for : Deep-blue seas and wide-open spaces

It’s not easy to get to Amorgos. In high winds, the fast ferries stay grounded and the slow boat takes upwards of eight hours from Athens. When you disembark at Katapola, a sleepy harbor lined with great little fish tavernas (our favorites are Prekas and Mouragio), a sign announces: 'Welcome to Amorgos. Nobody will find you here.'

That’s just the point. This craggy Cycladic island has always attracted loners, hikers, divers, and pilgrims, who shuffle up the cliff face to the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a sliver of white dangling 300 metres above the sea. The water here is a million shades of blue and so startlingly clear you can see every sea urchin lurking on the rocky shore. Even the sage-scented hiking trails are called Blue Paths, because the sea and sky are visible in all directions.

With a population of under 2,000, the locals are outnumbered by shaggy goats that blend in perfectly with the burnished landscape and hippie vibe. But you don't have to be a recluse to fall for Amorgos. There are plenty of all-day spots and a few late-night bars where Amorgos groupies meet, summer after summer: Jazzmin, in Hora, for backgammon and cocktails; Pergalidi in Langada for herbal infusions and jazzy tunes; Seladi in Tholaria, with giddying views and a telescope for stargazing.

Where to stay on Amorgos: There are very few hotels on Amorgos, beyond basic rooms to let.  Vorina Ktismata is the exception, with seven smart apartments looking out across Hora’s white-washed rooftops.

Best of the Greek islands for: The perfect balance of seclusion and sophistication

One of the tiniest Ionian islands, Paxos packs a big punch. Not for its five-star hotels (there are hardly any) or its sandy beaches (practically none), but for its electric blue sea and three dinky harbor towns, each one so pretty it’s impossible to pick a favorite. In laid-back Loggos, on the northeast coast, star-spangled evenings are spent on the waterfront terrace of Taxidi bar, where the owner, Spiros, often jams with local musicians. You could while away days in the waterfront cafés of Lakka, watching lissom sailors hop on and off their yachts. Protected from the wind but with a lively social scene, the main port of Gaios is characterized by Venetian architecture and a high quota of stylish Italians, who own pale stone villas hidden in the wooded interior or on the crest of the limestone cliffs along the western shoreline. For the many British Paxos aficionados, all roads lead to  Ben’s Bar , a happy-go-lucky hangout on Monodendri beach, where you can laze under the olive trees with French toast and Piña Coladas. Make sure to rent a motor boat to putter along the coast to pebble coves such as Marmari and Kipiadi, or across to Antipaxos, an even smaller island that’s a hit with the yachting set. Paths through vineyards and orchards trickle down to bays with sea so clear it looks retouched.

Where to stay in Paxos:

• For an authentic stay: Paxos Villa
• For a great location: Oneiro
• For groups: Panayia View sleeps 14 people

17. Lefkada

Best of the Greek islands for: Sailors, surfers, and superstar beaches

Lefkada is something of an anomaly. Unlike the other Ionian islands, it’s accessible from the mainland via a causeway on the northern tip. Lefkada’s main town, flattened by an earthquake in the 1950s, certainly won’t take your breath away, but those famous cliff-backed beaches, Egremni and Porto Katsiki, sure will. You’ll find sheltered beaches no matter which way the wind is blowing; but if you’re here for the swell, the south coast is fantastic for windsurfing (head to Vassiliki or Sivota, home to the world windsurfing championships) and Agios Ioannis bay billows with kite-surfers. At Nidri, ignore the unlovely bars and watersports centres, and hop on a boat to explore the little isles nearby. You can swim through sea caves near Kalamos; eat seared tuna with tarama at Errikos taverna on Meganisi, a favorite of reclusive billionaires; and watch the sunset with a basil-infused Mastiha and tonic at Mylos bar, a converted windmill on Kastos.

Want to cool down or escape the summer crowds? Drive through forests of chestnut and pine into Lefkada’s mountainous interior to the somnolent villages of Karya (home to an enchanting textile museum), Eglouvi (to play backgammon under plane trees) and Exanthia (to watch the setting sun from up in the clouds at Rachi restaurant). You might even see paragliders leaping off the mountain.

Where to stay in Lefkada:

• For romance: Ibid
• For views:  New Morning villa

Best of the Greek islands for: A mythical retreat for lovers and loners

Despite its legendary stature, the homeland of Homer's hero, Odysseus, remains surprisingly under the radar. Ithaca’s turquoise and emerald coves are popular with the sailing set, but few visitors venture into the forested hills. So you might be the only person exploring the eighth-century BC ruins of Odysseus’ palace, or making the heady trek to the church of Anogi, covered in Byzantine frescoes (ask for the key at the village coffee shop, where the owner will cook you a set menu of whatever is available–maybe a tomato salad, some local cheese and braised goat—straight from her garden or neighbours’ fields).

From Anogi, it’s an exhilarating two-hire hike down to Kioni, a miniature port where you’ll find  Spavento , the perfect pier-side café-bar. Go any time of day or night for ice-cream sundaes, excellent cocktails, and a soundtrack to make your heart sing. The waterside tavernas at the drowsy fishing port of Frikes are unfailingly delightful, especially  Ageri . The deep, sheltered harbor town of Vathy is barely livelier, but the mood can be deliciously mischievous at Mylos bar. Beaches are mostly small and pebbly, but the sea is as clear and refreshing as gin. Authentic, unspoiled and infuriatingly (or gratifyingly) hard to reach, rugged little Ithaca is somewhere you can still disappear.

Where to stay on Ithaca:

• For a private stay: Ithaca Airbnb house
• For families:  Levendis Estate

Best for: Traditional villages and knockout tavernas

Tinos has more than 50 villages, each vying to be fairest of them all. In Pyrgos, famous for its marble craftsmen, sculpted birds and flowers decorate every doorway. In Volax, basket weavers squat outside cottages surrounded by giant boulders, seemingly flung from the heavens by Zeus in a fit of pique. There's even a village called 'love’, Agapi, where you can tuck into wild-fennel fritters at the only taverna. Tinos takes its food culture seriously: there are artichoke, caper and honey festivals.  Marathia launched the island’s farm- (or fishing-boat-) to-table scene, elevating local ingredients into complex modern dishes. For a perfect meal in perfect surroundings, go for cuttlefish risotto and octopus caramelized in grape must at Thalassaki, served on the jetty in Isternia bay, then watch dusk bleed into the horizon from Exomeria bar.

Tinos is only 20 minutes from Mykonos, so it's a wonder it isn't overrun with tourists. The harbor is swarmed on 15 August, however, when Orthodox pilgrims flock here to kiss the Virgin Mary at the Monastery of Panagia Evangelistria, one of the holiest sites in Greece. Otherwise, the island is miraculously untouched. Solitary chapels and whimsical dovecotes stud thyme-scented hills, dropping to sandy bays whipped by the meltemi wind. There's a nascent surfer scene on Kolibithra bay, where a VW camper van has been converted into a cute beach bar.

Where to stay in Tinos:

• For a guest house stay: Xinara House
• For a private stay:  The Detailor

Best of the Greek islands for: Stark mystique and show-stopping villas

Patmos has an indefinable je ne sais quoi–an otherworldly quality that radiates from its crowning glory, the medieval Monastery of St John. This turreted fortress, bursting with Byzantine relics, is named after John the Divine, who conjured up his apocalyptic revelations in a cave nearby. Pure-white Hora, a World Heritage Site, is where A-listers and fashion editors stay. High walls and heavy doors conceal magnificent mansions dating back to the 16th century. The almighty church has kept nightlife in check. If you must see and be seen, head to quietly glamorous Astivi or Stoa Theo's bar, on miniature Agia Lesbia, in Hora. Beach life is generally languid and low-key; Psili Ammos and Livadi Geranou are our favorite hideouts. Dinner reservations are essential at Benetos, for Med-Asian fusion on an organic farm, and Lambi for grilled fish on a purple pebble beach.

Joining the Patmos in-crowd requires commitment. There's no airport and it's a nine-hour ferry journey from Athens, which keeps the hoi polloi at bay. Seriously reclusive types hop on a fishing boat from Patmos to Marathi and play castaway at Pantelis, a divine taverna with modest rooms to let.

Where to stay in Patmos:

• For a guest house stay: Pagostas
• For a private stay: Patmos 360
• For a village stay: Eirini

Best of the Greek islands for: Traveling back in time

When the writer Lawrence Durrell arrived in Rhodes after World War II, he found an island devastated by centuries of crusaders and invaders. Like the fallen Colossus, it was 'a Rhodes dispersed into a million fragments, waiting to be built up again.' Since then, Rhodes has reinvented itself as one of Greece's top travel destinations. The big draw is the medieval citadel in Rhodes Old Town: stroll along the battlements and you'll spy Byzantine churches, Roman ruins, synagogues, and minarets. In the maze of alleys, seek out Marco Polo Mansion, a 15th-century guest-house decorated like a pasha's harem, with an enchanting restaurant in the garden.

Upmarket hotels are clustered around Lindos, its magnificent acropolis surrounded by slate cliffs and emerald coves. Go for the views–and the sublime octopus ragout at Mavrikos restaurant.

As you head south, high-rise resorts give way to stretches of golden sand, such as Glystra, Tsambika, and Fourni. Inland, you'll find alpine forests (Mount Attavyros), hilltop castles (Monolithos), faded frescoes (Saint Nikolaos Fountoukli) and ancient ruins (Kamiros). Marooned on the southern tip, Prasonisi is a powdery peninsula where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. One side is calm, the other choppy–a metaphor for this island of two halves.

Where to stay in Rhodes:

• For romance: Casa Cook
• For history: Kókkini Porta Rossa
• For a boutique stay:  Melenos Art Boutique Hotel

Best for: Castaway coves and a picture-perfect port

Little Symi has the prettiest port in Greece. As you round the headland, neoclassical mansions in every shade of apricot and peach rise like a mirage from the sea. Built by 19th-century sponge and spice merchants, the whole town is now a national monument. You need strong legs to explore–it's about 500 steps up to the crumbling acropolis–but you won't need a car. The only proper road peters out at Panormitis monastery, a major pilgrimage site. Ravishing beaches such as Agios Giorgos Dysalona (backed by monumental cliffs) and Marathounda (where goats will try to filch your picnic) are only accessible by boat or on foot. In the rugged hinterland, more than 100 monasteries are hidden among the pine and cypress forests.

With its laid-back glamor, luminous sea and almost tropical microclimate, Symi is a hit with French and Italian yachties. You'll find them eating flash-fried baby shrimp, a local specialty, at Tholos, a sensational taverna where the harbor views almost steal the show.

Where to stay in Symi:

• For a hotel stay: The Old Markets
• For a private stay: On The Rocks

23. Astypalea

Best of the Greek islands for: Escaping the crowds

A throwback to a gentler, slower, more elemental way of life, Astypalea is surprisingly easy to get to (daily one-hour flights from Athens). Every gap in the burnished hills frames a different view of Hora, cascading from the Venetian castle to seaside Skala. The scent of saffron biscuits wafts through the whitewashed lanes. Tucked beneath the battlements, Castro bar has a magical terrace that seems to float above the archipelago.

The nearest beach is Livadi, a sort-of-resort surrounded by citrus orchards. The rest of the island is stark and wild. Treacherous tracks hurtle down to shingle bays such as Vatses, with a rocking beach bar, and Kaminakia, where Linda's farm-to-table taverna serves the best roast goat in the Dodecanese. If you really want to be alone, rent a motorboat from Maltezana, an old-time fishing village, and putter to Koutsomiti and Kounoupes, tiny islands connected by a double-sided beach. At Vathy, a lagoon where erotic graffiti was etched into the rocks 2,500 years ago, the only taverna is called Galini (Peace). Which sums up Astypalea perfectly.

Where to stay in Astypalea: Saluti da Stampalia Suites , with seven subdued but very stylish sea-view rooms, has upped the ante on an island where most accommodation is uninspired.

24. Skiathos

Best of the Greek islands for: Flopping onto a sandy beach with a good book

Skiathos may be the smallest of the Sporades islands, which counts among its number sleepy Alonissos and the pretty  Mamma Mia! location of Skopelos, but it’s by far the most popular, especially with families, who come for the baby powder-soft sandy beaches and laid-back vibe. The island has some of the finest beaches in Greece, with the tree-lined, turquoise-watered Koukounaries in the south the most celebrated and the busiest (forget about getting a sun lounger here in peak season). Those in the north of the island, which can only be accessed by a steep, winding drive through pine groves, are more rugged and windswept but no less idyllic–emerging onto Elia beach on the west coast, with its crystal-clear sea and rickety wooden taverna, is like stepping into a little slice of paradise.

As dusk falls the town starts to liven up, with most of the action centered around Papadiamantis Street, the main shopping drag. Stroll down it on the way to dinner and browse smart boutiques selling handcrafted jewelery and knick-knacks, or pick up local delicacies from the upmarket Ergon deli (reopens in May), which also has outposts in Athens, Thessaloniki and Mayfair. The buzziest restaurants are clustered around the harbour, with Bourtzi, perched atop a tiny rocky island, the best spot for sundowner cocktails and The Windmill a favorite for elegant suppers. For the most charming setting, head to Sklithri and book one of the taverna’s tables right on the beach. Order an ice-cold Mythos beer, baked feta and a platter of perfectly-chargrilled and out-of-this-world delicious vegetables then watch the sun set over the Aegean, with your toes in the sand.

Where to stay in Skiathos:

• For a hotels stay: Elivi Skiathos
• For a private stay: Villa Azalea

Best of the Greek islands for:  Low-key authenticity all year round

Unusually for Greece, Aegina is truly an island for all seasons. Only about an hour’s ferry ride from Piraeus, the unpretentious port (briefly the first capital of modern Greece) has a lived-in charm. Athenian weekenders come for the excellent seaside ouzeris; Skotadis, on the harborfront is the standout. Classicists come to explore the portside antiquities of Kolona, the hilltop temple of Aphaia (allegedly the template for the Parthenon) and the ghostly Byzantine chapels at Paleochora. Canny ex-pats have snapped up properties in Pachia Rachi, a stone village with sensational views across the straits to the Peloponnese. The Dumas family, heirs to the Hermès fortune, have been discreetly spending their summers here for decades. With its soft light and gentle landscapes, Aegina has always been a muse for Greek artists and writers, including the prolific painter Nikos Nikolaou, whose former home and atelier is now an  enchanting guesthouse and museum (open on Saturdays by appointment). Thanks to a tight-knit community of locals, Athenian escapees, and cosmopolitan emigrés, there’s always something interesting afoot: live music at Proka bar or  Il Posto , a cosy Italian restaurant in Kypseli village, an exhibition in the 17th century Markellos Tower, or a travel writing and ceramics retreat at  Oikia Karapanou , one of many stately homes in various states of ruin and repair that dot this incredibly diverse island. The only thing Aegina doesn’t have is great beaches—perhaps that’s what has spared this accessible island from over-development. This is an island that doesn’t depend on foreign tourists and is all the better for it.

Where to stay on Aegina:

• For a hotel stay: Nikolaou Residence
• For something unique: this bohemian artist's house
• For a group: Villa Calypso sleeps 11 people

26. Kastellorizo

Best of the Greek islands for:  Castaway dreams and swimming through caves

Michael Anastassiades, Lynda Benglis, Savvas Laz, Silvia and Nicoletta Fiorucci…the number of artists, designers, and their patrons who summer on tiny Kastellorizo is remarkable. Covering less than five square miles, with fewer than 500 inhabitants, this sun-blistered fleck lies just over one nautical mile from Turkey’s Anatolian coast. You can sail across to the town of Kaş for kofte and a trawl though the flea market and be back in time for a sundowner at Faros, a day-to-night hangout in the old lighthouse beside the mosque. A confluence of Levantine influences draws a culturally curious crowd to this remote Aegean outpost. Once a thriving maritime economy, Kastellorizo was bombed during World War II and then virtually abandoned. Gradually, the handsome sponge and spice merchants’ houses in vibrant shades of turquoise and terracotta are being revived as artists’ residences (such as Fiorucci’s 4Rooms), or enchanting guesthouses like  Mediterraneo . You can dive straight from Mediterraneo’s sundeck into the port, where sea turtles bob alongside colorful fishing boats. There’s not much action beyond the waterfront strip known as the  kordoni , or shoelace: a little snorkeling, cave swimming, or boat-watching, a ramble along goat tracks, a slow supper of stuffed onions under the fairy-lit plane trees at Ta Platania, or perhaps some yoga in the wild on the even tinier islet of Ro. This is a pure and simple Greece.

Where to stay on Kastellorizo:

• For a boutique stay:  Casa Mediterraneo
• For romance:  Mediterraneo
• For groups:  The Admiral’s House

27. Antiparos

Best of the Greek islands for:  Relaxed cool

This tiny island packs a surprisingly hip scene into its low-slung hills and shallow coves. Most of the action centres around the dinky port, where life drifts by in the waterfront cafés and the lively strip that leads to the square. Every season, more upmarket restaurants ( Yam ,  Lollo’s ) and boutiques ( More than This ,  Zali ) spring up alongside classic dive bars like  Doors and Lucky Luke. At dusk, all roads predictably lead to  Sunset bar for a spritz; after hours, everyone stumbles to cult disco La Luna, where both the décor and music are stuck in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

By day, the scene is way more mellow: brunch at  Margarita’s in town or  Time Marine  on Psaralyki, one of a string of shallow, narrow beaches along the southern coastline. Beyond the modest, boxy houses of the harbour town are dozens of sensational villas designed by in-demand architects. The fanciest properties are scattered around Soros and Agios Georgios bays, where you’ll also find two of the island’s best tavernas,  Peramataki and  Captain Pipinos . The latter is a short boat or kayak ride from Despotiko island, where goats roam around the semi-excavated sanctuary of Apollo. The beauty of Antiparos is that nothing is more than ten minutes away, and after a couple of days, you’ll feel like a regular, bumping into the same good-looking faces wherever you go. If you get cabin fever, you can hop on the 7-minute ferry to Paros for kite surfing, windsurfing, fine dining, or village hopping.

Where to stay on Antiparos:

• For a hotel stay: The Rooster
• For a private stay: Antiparos Escape Villas  and Oliaros

Best of the Greek islands for:  Distinctive architecture and good vibes

Long overlooked because of its checkered history—this Dodecanese Island was an Italian naval base from 1912–1943, and later became the site of a notorious insane asylum—Leros is all the better for flying under the radar. The vast natural harbor of Lakki (an excellent marina for sailboats) still bears the surreal hallmarks of Fascist rationalism, an Art Deco mirage that’s like a faded version of Miami on the Med. The colorful neoclassical houses of Agia Marina and Platanos have a more lived-in feel, peppered with appealing patisseries, antique shops, and B&Bs. Italian cognoscenti and Turkish yachties have discovered Leros for one very good reason:  Mylos by the Sea , arguably the best seafood restaurant in Greece, with a hopelessly romantic setting overlooking a windmill jutting out to sea. Sunset watchers converge on  Harris Bar , another windmill poised between the medieval castle of Panagia and Panteli’s pebbly beach. Most beaches on Leros may be small and scrappy, but the water is luminous and there are just enough low-key beach bars like  Zephyros  and  Lime . Since restaurants cater mainly to Greeks, the food scene is authentic and affordable: Thea Artemis taverna on gentle Blefouti bay, Lychnari in Lakki, and the cult souvlaki joint Yparxo in Platanos are local favorites. Although there’s a tiny domestic airport, there are no international flights or big, branded resorts on Leros. Instead, there are family-run guesthouses brimming with character, where you feel more like a friend than a room number.

Where to stay on Leros:

• For glamour:  Villa Clara
• For (vegan) romance:  Archondiko Angelou
• For a private stay:  Lakki Old Farmhouse

29. Spetses

Best of the Greek islands for:  Family holidays with the smart society set

If it weren’t for Sotirios Anargyros, Spetses might be as barren as its more bohemian neighbor, Hydra. In the early 20th century, after making a killing in tobacco, Anargyros bought up huge swathes of the island and planted thousands of pine trees. Anargyos also founded the famous boarding school (whose grounds are a lovely spot for an evening stroll) that inspired a certain English teacher to write The Magus , and built the Poseidonion, a grand harbor-front hotel that has been gloriously restored (there’s no finer place for an aperitivo). From the heirloom-filled mansions built on shipping fortunes to the horse-drawn carriages and tasteful yachts, the whole place reeks of old money. But there’s plenty of new-fangled fun too: late-night bars ( Bikini  or retro-cool  Bar Spetsa ), two open-air cinemas, stylish boutiques ( The Closet , whose resident cats are an attraction), and expensive restaurants ( Patralis  and  Tarsanas  vie for the best fish soup). In the summer, Spetses is a sociable place to see and be seen. But it’s also lovely off-season, when you can hike the gentle green hills or cycle the coastal road that circles the island (there’s even a Tweed Run in October). Compact, well-kept, and easily accessible from Athens (2-3 hours by catamaran), Spetses is a people-pleaser for all ages and seasons.

Where to stay on Spetses:

• For glamour:  Poseidonion Grand Hotel
• For families:  Orloff Resort
• For a private stay:  Magus House

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.

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10 Day Greek Island Tour to Athens, Santorini & Mykonos

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Say opa! to a Greek adventure which kicks off in Athens and explores two glittering island gems in the Aegean. Discover the treasures of an ancient world before spending a glorious week getting lost in the labyrinthine lanes of Santorini and Mykonos. You’ll combine your love for history with laid-back island life, visiting secret coves, seaside cafés and rambling ruins built to honor gods and goddesses. These remain as a testament to the lynchpin role ancient Greece once played in shaping western civilization as we know it today.

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10 days itinerary trip from Athens to Athens visiting 1 country and 3 cities

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Included sightseeing.

Sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist includes a visit to the magnificent Acropolis and views of the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch

Enjoy an orientation of the town of Fira with the views over the caldera where your Travel Director will provide information on beaches and sightseeing opportunities

Orientation of the port and Mykonos town includes a walk along the narrow cobbled streets and your Travel Director will provide information on beaches and sightseeing opportunities

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Find secluded Greek island coves on a beach-hopping boat tour of pint-sized Paxos

Perfect for beach-hopping, Paxos brings some of Greece’s most secluded coves within reach.

Leaning over the edge of the boat, I sink my hands below the surface. The midday sun is reflecting on the crests of the waves, and I can hear the hypnotic lapping of the sea meeting the cliffs. Otherwise, all is quiet.    

Leaning over the edge of the boat, I sink my hands below the surface. The midday sun is reflecting on the crests of the waves, and I can hear the hypnotic lapping of the sea meeting the cliffs. Otherwise, all is quiet.

It’s not surprising to hear that on Paxos, a seven-mile by two-and-a-half mile island off the south coast of Corfu, boats, just like the one George Lychnos remembers, were once used for everything from furniture removal to emergency services. While the road network has improved over recent decades — you can now drive the length of Paxos in just 20 minutes — the steep, winding route of the asphalt still reduces even the most laissez-faire drivers to sweat.  

But boating around Paxos is as much about fun as it is practicality. Summer days on this Ionian island are mostly spent dropping anchor at whichever cove of clear water takes your fancy, stretching out beneath the sun on the deck and diving in to cool off. Renting boats like this, whether solo or with a skipper, is something you can do on smaller stretches of some other Greek islands, but the size of Paxos means you can circle it at a leisurely pace in three hours. The abundance of beaches (“over 50, below 100,” says George) also gives you the chance to beach-hop between many of Greece’s most beautiful coves in a day.

We leave the 100-year-old San Sebastian in the distance, speeding around the island alongside hillsides covered in a green patchwork of towering pines and low, wide trees, their branches heavy with olives. “Paxos is covered in olive trees,” says George over the roar of the motor. “There are around 500,000 of them. But in summer, they’re too hard to pick — just look at those hills! We can’t be bothered.”  

George is the owner of Villa Kiki near the capital Gaios, on the southeast coast, where tavernas serve souvlaki in Venetian buildings with peeling shutters. The next day, George takes me on a tour of the island, again by boat.

Skimming across the water clockwise along the island’s east coast, we pass modest cottages with sea views and modern homes worthy of Grand Designs — glassy structures that blend in with the surrounding forest. Soon, we’re coasting beside the holiday home of the Agnelli family, owners of Juventus football club. A lone man plucks clams from the rocks beside it.  

Close to here, in the harbour of Mongonissi village on the island’s southern tip, we speed past sailing boats and superyachts, and a jack russell bounding into the shallows to fetch his ball. A short while later, we stop at Erimitis beach, where the neon-blue sea meets creamy pebbles, and the cliffs slowly shift to rose-gold with the sunset.  

The next day, I hop in my hire car to explore the northern tip of the island and another harbour town, Lakka, where I arrive to find the yachties heading in from their sailboats. It’s here that I meet 25-year-old Kostas Pappas, who, with his floppy hair and gentle manner, has become one of the most sought-after sea captains on the island.

I join him on one of his rigid inflatable boats. Handing me a glass of chilled rosé, he heads for some of his favourite swimming spots — each one empty but for us. At Avlaki 2 beach, which is barely wide enough for a couple of towels, I dive in and float on my back. Nothing beats entering the water from a boat: it’s exhilarating at first, then serene. At Lakkos beach, in the north, the pebbled shore is lined with olive and cypress trees, no other boats in sight.

Back at Villa Kiki that evening, I ask George what he plans to do over winter, when the travellers have left and the boats are empty. “Maybe then we’ll pick our olives,” he says, with a smile. “Picking olives on Paxos is like going to the therapist for a session. It makes you feel good.” He may be right. But I’d say any time here on Paxos is good for me.

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Greek islands launch special visa program for Turkish visitors in diplomatic effort to calm region

ATHENS, Greece — Officials on the Greek island of Rhodes opened a new vacation visa terminal for Turkish visitors Monday as part of a diplomatic effort to ease long-standing tensions between the two countries.

The limited-access visa will allow Turks to visit 10 Greek islands for up to a week without having to apply for full access to the European Union’s passport-free travel zone, known as the Schengen area.

NATO members Greece and Turkey launched several initiatives last year to try and sidestep decades-old disputes — mostly over sea boundaries and mineral rights in the Aegean Sea— to focus on trade.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan visited Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in December to sign a series of bilateral cooperation agreements in Athens. Mitsotakis will visit Turkey next month. “The express visa can be issued not only in summer, but all year round. The measure is designed to boost tourism in areas and at times of the year when there is not a lot of traffic, so it will help the local economies,” Mitsotakis wrote in a weekly online post Sunday.

Granted at participating Greek ports, the new visa will cost 60 euros and will include a passport check and fingerprint recording, while visitors will not be allowed to travel onto other EU member states, Greek officials said.

“The new system is ready and there is a lot of demand from Turkish visitors. But there were no boats scheduled to arrive today. We will have arrivals later this week,” Vassilis Vayiannakis, head of the Rhodes Port Fund, told the AP.

The islands in the vacation visa program all lie near the Turkish coastline and also include Lesbos, Limnos, Chios, Samos, Leros, Kalymnos, Kos, Symi and Kastellorizo, with the smaller islands due to join in June.

Turkey has long sought more relaxed travel rules for its citizens visiting the EU in exchange for its cooperation with member states of the bloc that include efforts to curb illegal immigration. Tourism is a vital industry for the Greek economy. The country welcomed 32.7 million visitors last year, raising 20.5 billion euros, according to central bank data.

Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

63 moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Winter

• Explore the majestic St Petersburg & Moscow on private city tours
• Admire the rich Russian history, art and architecture
• Travel to Moscow on a highspeed train
• Enjoy the local cuisine in stylish restaurants

Golden Ring of Russia

Lower Volga Voyage

• Visit magnificent Red Square and Kremlin and examine the collection at theKremlin’s State Armory.
• Experience Russia’s diverse musical traditions at lively folk music performances
• Explore Volgograd, the site of the decisive battle of World War II’s eastern front

Best of Russia

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

Highlights of Russia

St Petersburg & Moscow in Style - Summer

White Russian - 7 days

• Discover Moscow's UNESCO-listed Red Square, home to spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum and the historic GUM Department store
• Explore the grounds of Moscow's mighty Kremlin, with its numerous governmentbuildings, gold-domed cathedrals and the giant tsar bell
• Celebrate New Year's Eve in Moscow!
• Take in the highlights of St Petersburg including a guided tour of the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the remarkable Hermitage Museum at the Winter Palace

All Moscow , expedition cruises, self guided adventures and vacation packages. Find the best guided and expert planned vacation and holiday packages. Read more about Moscow

Small Group Moscow Tours

Vodka Shot - 6 days

• Explore the beautiful city of St Petersburg, including the exquisite Church on Spilled Blood, Peter & Paul Fortress and Nevsky Prospekt
• Marvel at the dazzling array of art and exhibits in the world-famous Hermitage Museum, at the Winter Palace in St Petersburg
• Discover a lavish residence of the tsars on a day trip to Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo (winter: mid-October to April) or Peterhof Palace and gardens (summer: May to mid-October)
• Take in the highlights of the capital on a walking tour, visiting Moscow's famous Red Square, home to the historic GUM Department Store, Lenin’s Mausoleum and spectacular St Basil’s Cathedral
• Take a guided tour of the Moscow Kremlin, Russia’s political power house. Stroll around the grounds of this fortified complex, visit the Kremlin's cathedrals and see the mighty Tsar Bell

Route of the Romanovs - 10 days

• Learn about the last days of the Romanovs in Yekaterinburg, visiting the sites where Tsar Nicolas II and his family were assassinated and buried
• Straddle two continents at the famous obelisk Europe/Asia border marker in Yekaterinburg
• Experience the Trans-Siberian railway on an overnight train journey from Moscow to Yekaterinburg

New Year's in Moscow - 9 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo on Christmas Day and marvel at the incredible Amber Room
• Spend a night in Novgorod, an ancient city by the Volkhov River - explore the kremlin, cathedral and other sights and enjoy a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

Back in the USSR - 7 days

Russian Revolution - 9 days

• Visit historic Novgorod, an ancient city which straddles the Volkhov River. Explore the attractive riverside kremlin and experience a traditional Russian banya (sauna)

The Snowball - 6 days

• Visit Catherine Palace at Tsarkoe Selo and marvel at the incredible Amber Room

Mood for Moscow - 4 days

• Head underground to visit a Stalinist-era Soviet Bunker on an optional excursion
• Stroll to the vibrant Izmailovo Market, which lies behind the walls of an ancient Kremlin, and shop for an array of souvenirs

Best Moscow Tours by Duration

Tours, Cruises & Private Trips

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Moscow reviews & ratings, capitals of the north.

some hotels could have been better

It was jam packed with every place I wanted to go and see. I especially love my photo of us setting out on the night time river cruise in St Petersburg and the Peter...

I really did not buy much and what I did buy was small gifts for others .

Johanna-Marie

Good hotels, some better than others. Interesting itinerary

Too rushed. Optional tour rather too short

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• Cafes In Moscow: A Russian Sojourn To Roasted Coffee And Buttered Croissants

23 Mar 2023

Specialty coffee is quite new for Moscow city but it’s good to know that now it has some handful of locations which are strictly focusing on professionally crafted coffee. Here you will find different types of coffee shops which are offering quality coffee with free Wi-Fi facility. Imagine you are taking a sip of the barista-made coffee in one of the cafes in Moscow while working on your computer – and how you can make this dream come true.

Top 10 Cafes In Moscow

Does the smell of roasted aromatic coffee attract you? Does the butter goodness on the side tempt you? Then check out the list of coffee shops which includes both specialty and historic cafés in Moscow city.

1. Mayak Café-Buffet

Image Source

The spot of this café was Previously occupied by the buffet of Mayakovsky theatre and in the later part; it was replaced by one club which hosted parties that were mainly attended by well-known actors and journalists. At present, if you are in search of a bohemian café –restaurant in Moscow, then probably this will be the best choice. The architecture of this café is really impressive and it is visited majorly by creative folks of the city. The ancient curved sideboards; decorated walls of the cafe will make you feel mesmerized. This hipster cafe in Moscow is famous for both French and Italian cuisine.

Must Read: 15 Interesting Things To Do In Moscow: Trekking, Opera, And More In 2022

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2. Bosco Café

It is more than 16 years of its operation and still, Bosco Café is serving its guests with exclusive coffee in style. Since its inception, Bosco Café is making the life of the citizens of Moscow more entertaining and enjoyable. The two storied café is no doubt extremely stylish and attractive for its unique decoration. This café has been decorated in Liberty style now. This popular café is situated at the Red Square and this place is just perfect to have your lunch or dinner with family or even for just a coffee pause. The interior decoration is done with chandeliers designed at the popular Seguso factory in Venice. The café is perfect for a summer day visit.

3. Strelka Bar

This café has become extremely popular among the ingenious people in Moscow. The venue is really ideal for those who want to have peaceful meetings and want to relax their mind after having a hectic weekend. Normally the price range of the cocktails lies between 500 to 600 rubles. The interiors are designed with application of Scandinavian designs and that what created an amazing atmosphere in the bar cafe. Strelka is no doubt one of the best coffee shops in Moscow Russia with a difference.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Hotels In Moscow That Redefine Luxury Like None Other!

4. Enthusiast Moto Café

If the search is for one of a class café the visit here. this café is a perfect combination of a café, workshop of motorcycle and bike besides a vinyl store. If your car needs any repairing then you can simply come here and hand over your car to the experts. Let the experts remain busy with your car’s necessary repairing work and you just relax here and enjoy the sip of your favorite beer or coffee with snacks of your choice. You can also enjoy the music playing in the café. Special arrangements are made on Sundays by top-notch music groups to entertain the guests out here.

5. Café Milk

Previously this was the place from where fresh milk selling used to be done to the locals. This popular dairy shop has now been transformed into world-class café in Russia . Coffee served at this café is really awesome to taste and The interior decoration of this café have been done with black and white and no doubt this decoration attracts the visitors. The breakfast menu, as well as the tea menu of this café, managed to impress the guests out here.

Suggested Read: Shopping In Moscow: 14 Top Places That Will Make You Believe The City Is As Classy & Chic As Milan

6. Café Pushkin

Image Source If you love the taste of traditional Russian dishes then cafe Pushkin in Moscow will be the best choice for you. This café is extremely popular not only to the locals but also to the tourists to this place. This café has been named after the renowned poet Alexander Pushkin. If you want to know more about the history of this café then ask any of the waiters for an amazing guided tour. This tour will help you to know more about the rich history of Café Pushkin.

7. Bar BQ Café

This café is situated between the entrance of the Kremlin and Red Square. The happening atmosphere and the delicious menus are the prime attraction of this café. Burgers, tapas, nachos and chicken wings, etc are offered at this café of great quality besides awesome caffeinated drinks. Here you will get a long list of cocktails with bruschetta with tuna, backed sweet pepper and lot more besides coffee.

Suggested Read: Russian Museums: For A Tour Down The Country’s Expansive And Profound Culture!

8. I love Cake

If you love the yummy taste of sweet of different varieties then this café will no doubt fulfill your wish completely. Once you are here you will become a huge fan of the sugary items offered in this café. Take the chance to taste American Pancake and waffles and trust us you will end up becoming a fan of this café. Whether you want to have exclusive cappuccinos or exotic lunch or breakfast, you will get here everything.

9. Coffee Mania

This one is one of the most popular coffee shops where stellar specialty coffee is available. Trained and award-winning baristas attend the customers here in the coffee shop. This café started its journey way back in the year 2001 and at present, this café has become a part of everyday life of the people of Moscow. People visit this café to have exotic lunch at the daytime and refresh the mind in the evening.

Suggested Read: Russia Circle Trip: 20 Places To Visit In Moscow And St. Petersburg In 2022

10. Vogue café

Image Source If you are in search of the best modern cafes in Moscow then vogue cafe will definitely fulfill your wish. This is one of the highly preferred cafés for the Fashionista crowd in Moscow. Normally people visit here after doing shopping in the nearby shopping malls. Huge lamps, classic interiors, stylish chairs of different color and sizes always attract the guests here. It was the year 2003 when this chic café started its journey.

Further Read: With The Red Square Turning White, Snowfall In Moscow Hits A 100-Year High!

The aromatic smell of the roasted coffee will spark up energy in you to make you feel happy and satisfied. So if you are on a trip to Russia then look for the best cafés in Moscow. The above 10 Cafes are the most happening ones in the city.

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17 Best Moscow Tours

Are you planning a visit to the capital of Russia and looking for the best Moscow tours? From Red Square to the Kremlin and from world-class art to fairytale buildings, Moscow is an enchanting city that offers plenty of excitement and elegance. Its history dates back more than 800 years, and there is culture in abundance for visitors to immerse themselves in.

Make the most of your visit with 17 of the best Moscow tours that let you see everything the city and its surroundings have to offer.

1 – Guided Tour of the Moscow Metro

Moscow’s metro is world-famous, thanks to the architectural delights on offer underground stations around the capital. This guided tour of the Moscow stations, otherwise known as “the palace of the people” lasts for 1.5 hours and includes an English-speaking guide who will tell you how the Russian metro became one of the most beautiful in the world. Highlights include Mayakovskaya station with its aviation-themed mosaics.

• Moscow metro tours

2 – Cosmonautics Museum Space Tour

Discover Cosmonautics Museum with this space tour. Dive into one of the greatest battles between the Soviet Union and the United States – the space race. Hear about the space programs of the USSR and learn about how the USSR shaped space travel and technology.

• Cosmonautics Museum tours

3 – Guided Tour of the Kremlin

A Kremlin is actually a citadel in Russian towns, and Moscow’s version is, without doubt, the most famous. The Kremlin is the heartbeat of the city, and this guided tour takes you to the most important points of interest. See Cathedral Square with its orthodox temples; Tzar Cannon with its 890mm calibre, which is the largest in the world; and the exterior of the all-important government buildings that are located within the Kremlin’s walls.

Click here to learn how to book Kremlin tickets .

• Kremlin tours

4 – Moscow City Walking Tour

One of the best Moscow tours for seeing everything the city has to offer, this small-group walking tour lasts for 2 hours and includes an expert guide. Make the most of the capital and see the cobbled spaces of Red Square, take pictures of St Basil’s Cathedral, visit the elegant Bolshoi Theatre, and enjoy the ornamental Alexandrovsky Garden.

• Moscow walking tours

5 – Night Tour of Moscow

When the sun sets, the fun begins – and it all starts with a night tour of Russia’s most famous city. The beauty of Moscow comes into full effect after hours, as iconic buildings like St Basil’s Cathedral illuminate against the night sky. Other locations on this tour include the Moscow River and the Ukraine Hotel, which is a landmark skyscraper that was constructed during the era of Stalin.

6 – Sergiev Posad Day Trip

One of the best Moscow tours that take you outside of the city, the Sergiev Posad day trip provides the opportunity to see The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church. It’s made up of a number of different buildings that include the blue domes of the Cathedral of the Assumption, Church of St. Sergius and the Bell Tower.

• Sergiev Posad day trips from Moscow

7 – City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise

If your time in Moscow is limited, this hop-on, hop-off bus tour is ideal – and it even features an optional cruise on the river. Choose between a 2 and 3-day ticket and see famous landmarks like Red Square, the Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre from an open-top panoramic bus with informative audio commentary. Take your experience to the next level by upgrading to a boat tour.

• Moscow hop on hop off bus tours

8 – Guided Tour of the Tretyakov Gallery

As one of the world’s most important galleries, the Tretyakov Gallery is a must-see for any art lovers and is one of the best Moscow tours for culture vultures. Learn about the masterworks of Pablo Tretyakov with a guided tour and discover the secrets behind the paintings. Other noticeable artists on view include Fedotov, Vasnetsov, Rokotov and Kiprenski, who is the author of the famous “Portrait of Alexander Pushkin”.

• Tretyakov Gallery tours

9 – Alternative Moscow: 2-Hour Walking Tour

See a different side of Moscow with this 2-hour alternative tour. An expert guide will take you around quirky streets, suburbs and squares while as your veer away from the traditional tourist hotspots. Highlights include a ride on the famous “Annushka” tram and a visit to the neighbourhood of Khitrovka, which was once known as the criminal district of the city.

10 – St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

Combine two of Moscow’s biggest attractions with a visit to Red Square and St.Basil’s Cathedral. Admire the beautiful architecture of St.Basil’s Cathedral from inside and out, before wandering Red Square and learn about the soldiers, farmers and revolutionaries that all called this famous square their home. Round things off with the changing of the guard at Alexander Garden.

• Red Square tours

11 – Bunker-42 Cold War Museum Guided Tour

Moscow is notorious for the Cold War, which lasted for about 45 years between 1945 and 1990. Head to the world-famous Bunker-42, located 65 meters below ground level, and learn about the storied past. Visit rooms and passages that were set up to shelter 3,000 people in case of nuclear attack and discover other sections, such as the equipment room and the war-proof telecommunications system.

• Bunker-42 Cold War Museum tours

12 – Architecture Tour of Moscow’s Metro and Kolomenskoye Estate

Combine the beauty of the metro stations with the Kolomenskoye Estate and see some of Moscow’s grandest sights. After visiting the elegant metro stations, it’s time to go to the Kolomenskoye Estate, which is filled with UNESCO-listed sites that are dedicated to Tsar Peter the Great.

• Kolomenskoye tours

13 – Tour of Soviet Moscow

Unpick the history of the USSR with one of the best Moscow tours for discovering Soviet Moscow. Starting at Monument to the Conquerors of Space, a tribute to the success of the Soviet space programme, the tour includes historical landmarks and interesting tidbits about Soviet Russia. There is also a visit to the All-Russia Exhibition Centre (VDNKh), a site that was constructed under the aegis of the USSR in tribute to state achievements.

14 – Moscow: 2.5-Hour Luxury River Cruise with Dining Option

Sail down the Moscow River on this 2.5 hour tour that provides a different perspective of the city and includes landmark sights. The boat features two decks and has panoramic views as well as free Wi-Fi access. Attractions along the route include Ukraine hotel, Sparrow Hills, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Crimean Bridge, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Zaryadye Park and more.

• Moscow boat tours

15 – Izmailovo Market and Vodka Museum Tour

Visit the museum of Vodka and gain insight into one of Russia’s most famous exports and head to the Izmailovo antique and handicraft market to find a gem or two. The tour starts with Izmailovo market, which features the iconic matryoshka dolls, fur hats and amber jewellery. Next up is a trip to the Museum of Vodka, where you will discover a distillery that dates back to the 15th century.

• Izmailovo market tours

16 – Súzdal and Vladímir Day Tour

Discover Russia’s famous “Golden Ring” on this tour of two medieval cities outside of Moscow. The historic city of Vladimir is first up with its Golden Gate, which is an ancient city-fortress that dates back to the 13th century. Next up is the neighbouring town of Suzdal, which features historic architecture and the Kremlin, where you can see its striking white walls topped with blue domes.

• Suzdal & Vladimir tours from Moscow

17- Moscow Food Tasting & Walking Tour

Sample the unique flavours of Moscow with this food tour that lasts for 3 hours and features more than 15 different food and drink tastings. Weave in and out of small alleys in the city centre while enjoying the best food spots in town. See Moscow like a local while trying classic dishes from local breakfast haunts, bustling markets, the oldest monastery in Moscow, and dumpling cafes where you can taste authentic dumplings and enjoy local coffee.

• Moscow food tours