5 Day Private Tour, Santorini, Mykonos, Delos & Cruise to Caldera

Planning a trip to Greece and dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, iconic sunsets, and charming Cycladic villages? If so, this 5-day private tour could be just what you’re after. It promises a smooth, hassle-free way to explore Mykonos, Santorini, and Delos without the stress of coordinating transport or accommodations—that’s all taken care of. With a good mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and local flavor, it’s designed to give you a taste of the best these islands have to offer.

What really drew our attention are two things: first, the included ferry tickets and transfers mean you won’t waste precious vacation time figuring out how to get from one island to another. Second, the option to choose between 3-star and 4-star hotels offers a nice balance of comfort and affordability. On the flip side, a potential snag is that the trip includes some boat rides and long days, which might be tiring if you’re not used to such schedules or if you’re traveling with very young children.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided yet flexible experience that balances sightseeing with some downtime. It’s ideal if you prefer having logistics sorted out and are looking to maximize your island time without the hassle of booking ferries, hotels, or transfers separately. If that sounds like your kind of trip, read on—we’ll go into the details.

Key Points

• All logistics handled: ferry tickets, port transfers, and hotel stays are included, making your trip seamless.
• Flexible hotel options: choose between 3-star and 4-star accommodations to fit your budget and comfort preferences.
• Exploration and relaxation: you get two nights on each island, with free time to explore on your own.
• Includes scenic highlights: sunset in Oia, Delos archaeological site, and a cruise with hot springs and beaches.
• Reviews praise knowledgeable guides and stunning views: travelers love the mix of sightseeing and leisure.
• Potential for longer travel time: ferry routes stop at other islands, which might extend travel days or cause delays.

An In-Depth Look at the 5-Day Greek Islands Tour

The Appeal of a Private, All-Inclusive Experience

When we hear about a 5-day tour that combines ferry rides, hotel stays, and guided excursions, our minds jump to stress-free planning. This tour’s strength lies in its comprehensive package—from pickup at your Athens hotel to your return, everything is organized. That means less time worrying about logistics and more time soaking in the stunning scenery, delicious food, and vibrant culture.

The private transfers are a notable perk. They ensure you don’t get lost in translation or spend hours waiting for buses, especially when moving from Athens to Piraeus, then from the ports to your hotels. Plus, with ferry tickets included, you avoid the hassle of last-minute booking or inflated prices. The fast ferries connect the islands efficiently, giving you the most time to explore once ashore.

Accommodation Choices: Comfort on Your Terms

Guests can opt for 3-star or 4-star hotels, based on their preferences and budget. The difference isn’t just in star rating but also in the experience—whether you’re after a more boutique-style stay or something more upscale. Whatever your choice, breakfast is included, helping start your days right.

While some reviews mention the hotels are “very good,” be aware that the actual location of hotels can influence your experience—closer to the action means more evening strolls and nightlife access, especially on Mykonos and Santorini.

Mykonos: The Island of Wind and Vibrant Nightlife

Your first stop, Mykonos, is famous worldwide for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic Little Venice area. As the most recognized Greek island, it’s packed with picture-perfect Cycladic houses, boutique shops, and vibrant bars.

The tour includes a stroll through Little Venice, where the colorful houses line the waterfront—an Instagram favorite—and a walk through “matogiania,” the charming narrow streets filled with shops and local eateries. According to reviews, the nightlife here is lively, perfect if you want to enjoy a relaxed evening with a drink or dance the night away.

The highlight for many is the optional Delos visit. This UNESCO World Heritage site features ancient ruins like temples, mosaics, and monuments. The 1.5-hour exploration provides a fascinating peek into the island’s mythic past as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. As one traveler said, “Mykonos and Santorini were beautiful. Blue domes and sunset in Oia were worth seeing,” which echoes the general sentiment that this island is a visual feast.

Santorini: Famous for Sunset and Unique Beaches

After a ferry ride to Santorini, you’ll find yourself in one of Greece’s most iconic destinations. The caldera views, the whitewashed buildings, and especially the sunset in Oia make it unforgettable. The tour emphasizes this moment, encouraging visitors to gather and watch the sky turn shades of pink and gold—a spectacle that everyone should see at least once.

In Santorini, you also get some free time to explore the capital, enjoy local shops, or relax at your hotel. The tour’s flexibility allows for personal discovery, whether that means visiting the famous Red Beach or just wandering the narrow streets.

The Optional Cruise: Hot Springs, Beaches, and a Sunset Finale

One of the most talked-about parts of the tour is the cruise around Santorini, which includes stops at Palea Kameni Hot Springs and the Red and White Beaches. The hot springs are a unique experience—soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters while surrounded by volcanic landscapes.

The BBQ onboard is a bonus, serving fresh seafood and grilled meats, which many reviews mention as a highlight. Notably, this cruise concludes with a sunset in Oia, offering a picturesque end to your island adventures. It’s a relaxing way to see multiple sights from the water, especially if you prefer a less strenuous day.

The Long Farewell: Returning to Athens

On your last day, the tour includes a ferry ride back to Piraeus, followed by a transfer to your Athens hotel. With around four hours of travel, it’s a good opportunity to reflect on your trip, enjoy the views, or even catch a nap.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently point out the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery as the tour’s standout features. One reviewer noted that the hot Springs and tapas-like local food made the cruise particularly memorable. Others appreciated the smooth organization—ferry tickets, transfers, and hotel check-ins were seamless.

However, some note that travel days between islands can take a fair chunk of time, especially when stops at additional islands occur. One traveler remarked, “it takes time to go from one island to the other since the ship stops in different other islands. We spent almost one day from Mykonos to Santorini,” which is worth considering if you prefer more relaxed pacing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you value convenience over adventure, this tour is a solid pick. It suits travelers who want to see the highlights without the stress of planning every transfer or booking tickets separately. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided itineraries with free time for personal exploration and are comfortable with boat rides and some long travel days.

Couples, small groups, or friends who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and leisure will find this appealing. It’s not the best option if you’re looking for a fully independent, DIY experience or traveling with very young children who might find boat trips tiring.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day private Greek Islands tour offers a well-rounded taste of what makes the Cyclades so special. From the lively streets of Mykonos to the breathtaking sunsets in Santorini, it combines expert organization with enough free time to explore or relax at your own pace.

The included ferry tickets, transfers, and hotels add value, especially since organizing these elements separately can be complicated and costly. The option to choose between 3-star and 4-star accommodations adds flexibility, catering to different budgets and comfort levels.

While travel days can be lengthy, the overall experience is rewarding—plenty of stunning views, delicious food, and fascinating sites. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to enjoy Greece’s iconic islands without the headaches of logistics.

If you’re after a comprehensive, stress-free way to experience the Greek islands with some guided insights and plenty of freedom, this tour could be a great match.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention family activities, the boat rides and sightseeing could be enjoyable for older children comfortable with travel. Keep in mind that ferry crossings and long days might require some patience.

Are the hotels centrally located?
The tour offers options for 3-star or 4-star hotels, but exact locations aren’t specified. Generally, the hotels are selected to maximize comfort and convenience; you’ll receive detailed hotel info closer to your trip.

Do I need to book additional tours?
Optional tours, like the Delos exploration or the Santorini cruise, are included at an extra cost, but some activities like exploring the towns or beaches are free and at your leisure.

How long are the ferry rides?
Ferry trips are part of the itinerary, with the main routes between Piraeus, Mykonos, and Santorini. Travel times vary, and some reviews mention that ferry stops at additional islands can extend travel hours.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included at your hotel, and the cruise features a BBQ buffet. Other meals are not included, giving you the chance to enjoy local restaurants at your leisure.

What’s the best time to book?
Most travelers book about 59 days in advance, but availability can vary. To secure preferred hotels and dates, it’s wise to plan ahead.

What happens if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 6 days prior for a full refund. Later cancellations are subject to partial or no refund, so reviewing the policy carefully is advisable.

Whether you’re after stunning sunsets, cultural highlights, or just a smooth way to hop between gorgeous islands, this tour offers a lot. It balances guided structure with free time, making it a practical choice for many. Just be prepared for some long days and ferry rides, and you’re set for a memorable Aegean adventure.