9 Day Private Tour from Athens to Santorini, Mykonos, and Delos

An Honest Look at the 9-Day Private Greek Islands & Athens Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Greece without the hassle of planning every detail, this 9-day private tour covering Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Delos could be just what you need. It promises a comprehensive experience that balances iconic sights with relaxing island time, all curated and organized by professionals. We haven’t booked it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it looks like a solid choice for travelers who want to see the essentials without the stress of logistics.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are how it takes care of the transportation and accommodations, giving you more time to enjoy rather than worry. Plus, the inclusion of expert guides at key sites like the Acropolis adds depth to the experience. On the flip side, a potential downside is the fixed schedule—if you’re someone who loves to explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit structured.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who value a well-organized, all-included package, especially those new to Greece or wanting a stress-free way to hit the highlights. If you’re looking for a deep dive into each island’s culture and scenery, you’ll probably find this itinerary hits most of the must-see spots.

Key Points

• All-in-One Package: The tour handles transportation, hotel stays, and some meals, which means less planning for you.
• Expert-guided Sights: Knowledgeable guides enhance visits to iconic sites like the Acropolis and the Museum.
• Island Hopping Made Easy: Fast ferries between Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini cut down travel stress.
• Scenic Highlights: From Athens’ ancient ruins to Santorini’s sunsets, you’ll experience picture-perfect moments.
• Balanced Pace: The itinerary offers a mix of guided tours and free time, so you can relax or explore independently.
• Value for Price: At $2,828.80 per person, considering accommodations, ferry rides, and guided tours, it seems like fair value for a curated experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off in Athens

Your journey begins with a meet-and-greet at Athens International Airport, which sets a welcoming tone. The tour’s inclusion of private transfers right from the airport puts you at ease, especially after a long flight. The first full day is dedicated to exploring Athens’ highlights, which is perfect for getting your bearings in this historic city.

The Acropolis visit is the centerpiece here. You’ll be picked up by a private driver and guided through the Theatre of Dionysus, the Porch of the Caryatids, and the Parthenon. The guide enhances the experience by sharing stories behind these ancient structures, making history come alive. The Acropolis Museum visit adds a layer of context with its intriguing artifacts and sculptures, some displayed over excavations seen through glass floors—an interesting touch that makes history tangible.

The panoramic tour of Athens includes the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Syntagma Square, and the Panathenaic Stadium. These sights are not just photo ops—they tell the story of Athens’ past and present. The Panathinaikos Stadium, for example, is where the first modern Olympic Games took place, a fact that always sparks curiosity.

Transition to the Islands

By day 3, you’re on your way to Mykonos, one of Greece’s most famous islands. The ferry ride from Piraeus Port to Mykonos is a highlight, offering a scenic, relatively quick passage that gets you immersed in the Aegean vibe. Arriving in Mykonos, you’re greeted with free time to explore the town, stroll through Little Venice, or shop in the narrow streets of Matogiania. The tour’s flexibility here is a plus—after the travel, you can ease into the island’s lively atmosphere or just unwind at your hotel.

Exploring Mykonos and Delos

A key optional activity on day 4 is a visit to Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Though extra cost applies, it’s a unique chance to see ancient ruins of Greek temples and monuments on a small island that played a significant role in mythology and history. The boat trip includes a BBQ lunch on board, which many reviews highlight as a tasty perk. The cruise to Rhenia Island for swimming and sunbathing is a perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Aegean—relaxing, scenic, and a break from sightseeing.

Moving to Santorini

On day 5, you transfer to Santorini via ferry, with the iconic sunset in Oia as a must-see highlight. Watching the sun dip behind the caldera from Oia is a bucket-list moment for many travelers, and the tour’s timing ensures you’re there during the most photogenic hours. Afterward, you can enjoy dinner or drinks in the picturesque capital, soaking in the sunset views and the lively atmosphere.

Santorini’s Highlights

The following days focus on Santorini’s top sights. The optional cruise on day 6 takes you to Palea Kameni Hot Springs, the Red Beach, and White Beach, with a BBQ buffet onboard. Many travelers find boat trips like this to be memorable, especially with views of volcanic islands and the chance to swim in thermal waters.

Day 7 offers a day of wandering through villages like Megalochori, Emporio, and Imerovigli, culminating in the stunning Oia sunset. The tour balances guided sightseeing with free time, allowing you to soak in the scenery or hunt for souvenirs. The mention of magnificent views from Prophet Elias Monastery and the charming streets of Firostefani helps paint a mental picture of what to expect.

Ending the Journey

On day 8, the return ferry takes you back to Piraeus, and from there, you’re transferred to your hotel in Athens to relax before your departure. The entire trip wraps up with a straightforward transfer to the airport, making it easy to plan your departure.

Practical Details and What They Mean for You

The price of $2,828.80 per person covers quite a bit: accommodations, ferry rides, guided tours, some meals, and private transfers. For travelers who dislike the hassle of booking each part separately, this all-in-one approach offers convenience and peace of mind. The inclusion of private guides at key locations adds depth and comfort, ensuring you get expert insights without feeling rushed.

The tour’s flexibility in accommodations—ranging from double and triple rooms to singles—means it can suit different travel groups. Plus, the reviews suggest the hotels exceeded expectations, especially in Santorini, which is a big plus if you’re used to standard hotel experiences.

The fact that most travelers book about 163 days in advance indicates high demand and a reputation for reliability. The ability to cancel up to 6 days before with a full refund adds a safety net if your plans change.

Things to Consider

While the tour promises a smooth experience, the schedule is quite packed. If you prefer to explore at your own pace, some may find it a bit rigid. The optional activities, like the Delos and Palea Kameni cruises, come with extra costs—so budget accordingly if those are on your wishlist.

Another consideration is the ferry rides, which are weather-dependent. If you are prone to seasickness or dislike boat trips, it’s good to be prepared. The tour does a good job of balancing guided sightseeing with free time, but the tight schedule may not suit everyone’s travel style.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best for travelers who want a curated, comprehensive taste of Greece without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal for first-timers or those who appreciate expert guides, scenic ferry rides, and having most logistics taken care of. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or even a small family group, the private element makes it a comfortable option.

If you’re dreaming of iconic sunsets, ancient ruins, lively island towns, and having your transportation pre-arranged, this tour hits most of those marks. However, if your idea of travel involves more spontaneous exploration or a slower pace, you might want to consider customizing a trip or extending your stay independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is private, so solo travelers can join comfortably. It offers the same personalized experience as for groups.

Are all sites included in the price?
Most major sights, like the Acropolis and Museum, are included with tickets. Optional activities like the Delos and Palea Kameni cruises incur extra costs.

How much free time do I get?
There’s a mix of guided tours and free periods, especially in towns like Mykonos and Santorini, giving you space to explore or relax.

Will I be staying in good hotels?
According to reviews, the hotels surpassed expectations, especially in Santorini. Hotel taxes are not included but are relatively minor.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, private transfers, ferry rides, and boat trips are included, making the logistics smooth and comfortable.

What should I know about the ferry rides?
They are part of the experience and are generally quick and scenic but depend on weather. Seasickness might be a consideration.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund; later cancellations are partial or non-refundable.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included every day. Some meals are part of the tours, like the onboard BBQ lunches during cruises.

Is this tour good for families or children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-focused, the itinerary’s pace and activities are generally suitable for older children and teens who enjoy sightseeing and boat trips.

Wrapping Up

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich Greek adventure**, this 9-day private tour offers a lot of value. It’s especially appealing if you prefer having most logistics handled and enjoy guided insights at major sites. The mix of history, island charm, and spectacular sunsets makes for a memorable trip, and the positive reviews suggest it’s a reliable choice.

For travelers who want to soak in Greece’s most famous sights without the fuss, this tour could be just the ticket. It combines comfort, convenience, and iconic experiences, making it a solid option whether it’s your first visit or a return trip.

Note: Always double-check current availability and policies, especially regarding optional activities and cancellations, as details might change.