Highlights of the Cyclades

This tour offers a relaxed exploration of three of the most picturesque and iconic Cycladic islands: Naxos, Santorini and Paros. Spend five nights on Naxos, which offers tradition, culture and a more low-key Greek island tourism, before continuing to Paros for two nights, with its golden beaches, whitewashed villages and authentic charm. A highlight is a day trip to Santorini, renowned for its dramatic volcanic cliffs, its famous caldera and the exceptionally picturesque village of Oia.

ITINERARY

Day 1: Fly from London Gatwick to Mykonos, transfer by boat to Naxos. 
On arrival in Mykonos transfer to the port and join a ferry to Naxos (1 hour 25 minutes). On arrival, transfer to the Naxos Resort Hotel and check in for a five-night stay. The remainder of the day is at leisure to settle in and perhaps enjoy the nearby beach and hotel facilities.

Day 2: Chora, Naxos
This morning, enjoy a guided walk through Chora, the atmospheric old town of Naxos. Wander its charming maze of narrow streets, Venetian architecture and hilltop Kastro. The afternoon is at leisure. This evening, dinner is included altogether at a nearby restaurant in Chora.

Day 3: Rural Naxos
Today we explore some of the picturesque and traditional inland villages of Naxos, Chalki, Filoti and Apeiranthos. Discover local culture, traditional architecture and stunning mountain landscapes, with time to soak up the authentic charm of rural Naxos.

Day 4: Day trip to Santorini
Take a full-day excursion to Santorini (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by boat). Immediately, arriving by boat, you understand what all the fuss is about this island, the scenery is stunning. We will visit the island’s iconic villages Fira and Oia, famed for their whitewashed houses, narrow lanes, blue domes and breath-taking caldera views. Return to Naxos late afternoon.

Day 5: Naxos
A half-day visit to Eggares Olive Farm offers an interesting and personal insight into traditional olive oil production on the island, followed by a visit to the ancient Temple of Demeter that dates to the 6th C BC, the views of rural Naxos are lovely and extensive from here. The afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the hotel.

Day 6: Paros and Antiparos
Travel by boat to Paros (30 minutes) and check in to your hotel. Enjoy lunch in a coastal village before continuing to the charming island of Antiparos. Stroll its pretty streets before returning for a relaxed evening.

Day 7: Parikia and Naoussa
Discover Parikia on a guided walk, then visit the seaside village of Naoussa. Enjoy free time for lunch before returning to the hotel.

Day 8: Departure
Transfer by boat to Mykonos (45 minutes) for your return flight to London Gatwick.

NB: Exact order of excursions may vary according to local conditions and tour manager’s discretion.

Please note the maximum group size on this tour is 25 travellers.

Tour Grading: This tour has been graded as moderate due to needing to get on and off boats, with luggage, which is stored in an area immediately as you board the ferry. For further information, please visit the mobility page on our website, or call our team if you have any questions prior to booking. 

INCLUDED

• Return flights from London Gatwick to Mykonos
• Five nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the Naxos Resort Hotel, Naxos, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• Two nights’ accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the Paros Bay Hotel, Paros, based on shared occupancy of a twin/double room
• 1 dinner
• All tours and entrance fees as detailed
• Airport and ferry transfers, and coach touring as per the itinerary
• Accompanied by tour manager Jane Freeman throughout

NOT INCLUDED

• Double for sole use supplement - £450
• Meals other than those stated
• Items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, telephone calls etc
• Porterage and gratuities

HOTEL

Naxos Resort Hotel, Chora
The Naxos Resort Hotel enjoys an excellent location in Chora, just a few metres from the sandy Agios Georgios Beach and within a short walking distance of the town centre. The hotel facilities include a large outdoor swimming pool, spa and wellness area with sauna and jacuzzi, a fully equipped gym, as well as a restaurant and bar serving Greek and international cuisine. Bedrooms are comfortably furnished in a traditional Cycladic style and feature modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, private balconies or terraces, flat‑screen TVs, and views of the gardens, pool, or sea, ensuring a pleasant and well-equipped stay for guests. 
Hotel Website  

Paros Bay Hotel, Paros
Nestled atop a gentle cliff just steps from Parasporos Beach, Paros Bay Hotel is a serene, Cycladic-chic retreat offering uninterrupted views of the Aegean. Its 63 tastefully furnished rooms, each opening onto a balcony with garden or sea views, blend traditional style with modern comfort. Facilities include a salt-water pool, spa, restaurant. and poolside bar. With a calm atmosphere, and easy access to Parikia and Naoussa, it’s an ideal base for relaxed island exploration.
Hotel Website