Duration
8 Nights / 9 Days
Destinations
Athens, Ikaria & Syros
Experience Athens like an Athenian!
Join us on this small-group street culture & food tour, where you will get to visit an off-the-beaten-path part of the city, Gazi. With the guidance of our enthusiastic guide you will discover beautiful works of street art and graffiti while having a taste of sweet and savory street food. This 3-hour small-group tour starting and ending at the centrally located Kerameikos Metro station (Blue Line) is offering a personalized expirience of Athen’s vibrant alternative entertainement scene.
Enjoy a guided tour of Syntagma Metro Station’s archaeological displays, the House of Parliament, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with the chance to witness the changing of the guards. Explore the National Gardens, Zappeion Hall, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Theater of Dionysus. Visit the Acropolis, including the Parthenon, Propylaia, Erechtheion, and Nike Temple, while taking in stunning panoramic views of Herodion, Filopappos Hill, Mars Hill, and the Ancient Agora.
Immerse yourself in the heart of Athens to explore both the modern side of city and the timeless beauty of the Acropolis.
These cooking lessons reveal the secrets of longevity, which are hidden in the island’s unique gastronomy. You will learn how to prepare and cook three to four recipes from the mainly plant-based Ikarian cuisine. Αt the end of the lesson, the food is served for everyone to enjoy together with wine from the family’s winery.
Ikarian cuisine is centered around fresh, organic ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and fish, often cooked in a wood oven. Meat is rare, only sourced from local farms and everything—from the fruits, vegetables, and goat cheese to the olive oil and eggs—is produced on the farm. The bread is made with 100% Greek flours and pre-leavened. This simple, light approach to cooking preserves the nutritional value of food, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Local cuisine is closely linked to longevity, as supported by research studies with the Karimalis family on Ikarian life and gastronomy.
The day begins in the village of Christos-Raches, known for its charming Ikarian architecture, relaxed vibe, and lively cafes. Before our hike, we can explore the square, enjoy a drink, and chat with locals under the shade of old trees.
We head east through traditional houses and colorful gardens, then follow a path leading to the Charakas River and the village of Kastanies. The landscape becomes wilder, with pine trees and plants hinting at nearby water. Along the way, we pass a restored Ikarian stone water mill and walk through a pine forest on a well-preserved stone path.
After a short rest at Holy Trinity Church near an old monastery, we continue to Vathes, a lush area with lakes, a dam, and breathtaking views of the Atheras peaks and the Aegean Sea. We stop for a snack at a cantina by the water’s edge, then explore paths around the lake, passing small farms and beekeepers. Our final stop is the 15th-century Moni Mounte Monastery, where a monk shares its history and offers us Greek coffee before we return to Armenistis for an afternoon swim.
Departure in the morning from Gialiskari and drive to the west part of Ikaria island.
First stop will be the lighthouse of Kavos Papas, located on the southwestern tip of the island of Ikaria and it is a property of the Greek government-Lighthouse Service of the Greek Navy (declared by UNESCO as a Cultural Heritage). It defines one of the most difficult passages in the central Aegean, between Mykonos and Ikaria. Next stop Kalou beach, wild and beautiful, with natural hot-tubs! After a swim in the natural tubs (“vathres”) you will proceed to Trapalou village – beach. Have a swim at Trapalou beach and after sit to the local tavern-house to eat almost on the beach.
On your way back, be sure to stop at Nas Beach to soak in the stunning sunset!
The beach next to your hotel is called Messakti—a stunning, natural golden-sand beach with crystal-clear waters. Popular yet peaceful, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a cold coffee at the beach bar with serene view.
Ikaria and surfing share a wild and timeless spirit. Both invite you to explore and rediscover yourself in a magical setting.
Meet Isidoros and Vasilis, the head coaches of the school, who will assess the weather conditions and guide you through a day of paddling, surfing, or even a relaxing yoga session in nature.
Savor the sunset with a refreshing Ikarian beer in hand!
Embark on a 4-5 hour boat trip to Syros’ hidden NW beaches, accessible only by boat or foot from Apano Meria. Departing from Kini, the Perla 1 will glide along the coastline, giving you a close-up view of the pristine beaches. Choose to stop and swim at one of our recommended spots. A beach umbrella and cold water will be provided. The boat will return to Kini at a scheduled time.
As these remote beaches have no roads or shops, please bring any essentials you may need!
Jump on a private hiking journey through breathtaking landscapes, discovering the beauty of nature in its purest form.
Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating stories and historical insights about each trail. At the end of each path, a serene and secluded beach awaits, where you can relax, feel the sea breeze, and embrace the tranquility of the surroundings.
Start in the charming settlement of Kampos, Apano Meria, and follow the scenic path to Gria Spilia beach in Grammata Bay. Along the way, discover the old marble quarry and hear the tale of John Pierson, the American who planted 20,000 pines. After a brief stop at Gria Spilia, continue to Grammata beach and the cape with ancient inscriptions carved by sailors as thanks to the Gods. From there, head to Marmari beach for a swim and snack. Then, explore the secluded Megas Lakkos beach, and finish at Lia, the largest beach in Apano Meria, before returning to Kampos via a steep path with stunning views of Syringa and Aerolithos.
This half-day private tour offers an immersive glimpse into the essence of Syros Island. Explore the Neoclassical beauty of Hermoupolis, wander the charming alleys of Ano Syros, and enjoy stunning views of picturesque villages.
Start at the Cathedral of St. Nicholas in the Vaporia district, surrounded by elegant mansions. Next, visit the iconic Apollon Theater, a cultural symbol since 1864. Step into a remarkable Neoclassical mansion, where the past’s elegance is on full display.
Continue to Miaoulis Square, with its architectural wonders and the grand Town Hall designed by Ernst Ziller. Then, explore the medieval hilltop settlement of Ano Syros, visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of St. George and the Markos Vamvakaris Museum. End with a scenic bus tour through Syros’ Neoclassical villages, home to historic mansions with captivating stories.
Transfer to the hotel | meet & greet with us | walking tour | overnight in Athens
Sigthseeing tour | transfer to Athens Airport | flight to Ikaria | car rental pick up | overnight in Ikaria
Leisure day | overnight in Ikaria
Cooking lesson | overnight in Ikaria
Hiking tour | overnight in Ikaria
Leisure day | overnight in Ikaria
Car rental drop off | ferry to Syros | car rental pick up | overnight in Syros
Leisure Day | overnight in Syros
Cruise | overnight in Syros
Car rental drop off | ferry to Athens | transfer from Piraeus port to the hotel | overight in Athens
Transfer to Athens Airport (for the international flight back home)
General Commercial Registry No: 180520501000
GNTO: 0259Ε60000752401
