Escorted Tours
An Island Odyssey
Shimmering Seas and Timeless Landscapes
The hum of ferries, salt on the breeze and the glow of whitewashed walls – island life in the Cyclades carries its own quiet rhythm through its valleys and temples, villages and golden beaches.
Wander the streets of Parikia on Paros, explore the ruins of Naxos, and uncover the traditional villages and marble artistry at Tinos. This is Greece at its most local, lived-in and endlessly inviting.
what’s included
At A Glance
Meet Your Expert tour manager
Jane Freeman
Jane is Travel Editions’ Greece Product and Operations Manager and is based half of the time in the UK and the other half in Crete. She has created and expanded the company’s Greek programme to include history, nature, walking, culinary and cultural tours across the islands and mainland.
Jane particularly enjoys sharing Greece’s traditions, mezze-style cooking and the open-hearted hospitality of its people. Her warm, friendly nature and longstanding relationships with local suppliers are greatly appreciated by travellers, while her instinct for finding places beyond the usual tourist routes gives her tours a distinctive and personal character.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Day 1: Fly from London Gatwick to Mykonos, transfer by boat to Naxos
Fly from London Gatwick to Mykonos, where we board a ferry to Naxos, the largest island of the Cyclades. On arrival, transfer to the hotel and enjoy your first evening soaking in the island’s relaxed charm with dinner at a local taverna.
Day 2: Naxos
We begin in the fertile countryside at Eggares Olive Farm, where a long tradition of olive cultivation continues much as it has for generations. A visit here gives an insight into rural life on the island, along with the opportunity to sample some of the produce.
We continue to the Temple of Demeter, dating from the 6th century BC and dedicated to the goddess of agriculture. It has a lovely position on the top of hill with Naxos’ typically agricultural scenery all around.
This afternoon we take a guided walk through picturesque Naxos town, the capital of the island, with its Venetian castle, winding alleys and waterfront tavernas.
Day 3: Santorini
Today we sail to Santorini for a full-day excursion (90 minute ferry ride). The island’s dramatic setting, shaped by volcanic activity, is immediately striking, with steep cliffs falling to the caldera below, alongside the whitewashed villages that have made Santorini so picturesque and recognisable.
Day 4: Naxos
Our day is spent exploring the interior of Naxos, where the landscape is greener and more varied than elsewhere in the Cyclades. We pass through traditional villages, some little changed in character, and see another side of island life. There will be opportunities to sample local produce along the way, reflecting Naxos’ strong agricultural traditions.
Day 5: Paros
This morning we sail to Paros (30 minute ferry ride). We enjoy a relaxed day getting a taste of Paros. We will visit a small fishing village on the east coast, where there will be time for a leisurely lunch, before visiting the tiny island of Antiparos, literally a 10-minute boat ride, famous for its beautiful whitewashed streets and cascading flowers. Check-in to the Paros Bay Hotel for a three-night stay.
Day 6: Tinos
Today we take a day trip to the island of Tinos, one of the most distinctive islands in the Cyclades, known for the strength of its traditions and its deeply rooted spiritual life. Scattered across a rugged landscape we find the ‘marble’ villages, many noted for their fine marble craftsmanship, evident in houses, fountains and churches. The island is also an important place of pilgrimage, centred on the Church of Panagia Evangelistria in Tinos Town. Less visited than its neighbours, Tinos retains a notably authentic character, with a quiet, timeless atmosphere and a strong sense of local identity.
Day 7: Parikia and Naoussa
Back in Paros, our day begins in Parikia, the capital and principal port of Paros, which combines the character of a working harbour with the charm of a traditional Cycladic town. Its waterfront is lined with cafés and tavernas, while behind lies a maze of narrow, whitewashed streets leading to the remains of a 13th century Venetian castle. At its heart stands the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani (the church of 100 doors), one of the most important early Christian monuments in Greece.
We then continue to the harbour town of Naoussa, an attractive spot for lunch. The remainder of the day is free to spend as you wish.
Day 8: Paros to London
Take a short ferry ride from Paros to Mykonos (approx 50 minutes) and fly home from Mykonos to London Gatwick.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“This was an excellent tour throughout, with a well-planned itinerary and plenty to enjoy along the way. The tour manager was superb and helped make the whole experience run smoothly.”
Mrs B, travelled May 2026
“With an excellent tour leader, great hotels and wonderful destinations throughout, this holiday was a fantastic experience from start to finish. Everything was so well organised that I genuinely wouldn’t change a thing.”
Richard Raynsford, travelled May 2026
“One of the standout moments of the trip was dining at the Paros 1926 restaurant, which added a really memorable touch to an already enjoyable holiday.”
Anonymous, travelled May 2026
“The visit to the Kouros was a real highlight, along with the feeling of getting away from the usual tourist hotspots and experiencing somewhere more authentic. Combined with excellent accommodation and a fantastic tour manager, it made for a truly enjoyable holiday.”
Susan Anderson, travelled May 2026
Availability
Choose Your Departure
HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Nastasia Hotel, Naxos
Nestled just a stone’s throw from the capital, Chora, and Agios Georgios beach, Nastasia Village exudes serene Cycladic charm with its minimalist, white-washed architecture and private garden with lavender and thyme. The boutique retreat offers 18 elegant rooms and studios—some with kitchenettes —each providing modern comforts such as air-conditioning, Wi Fi, and high-quality mattresses. Mornings begin with a homemade Greek breakfast served in the flower-filled courtyard or in the dining area. With attentive, welcoming staff and a peaceful yet central location, it’s an idyllic base for easy access to the centre of Chora, which has a wide choice of restaurants and shops.
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. Guests can bask by the salt-water pool, indulge in spa treatments, and dine at the Mediterranean restaurant or poolside bar serving fresh, local flavours. With a soothing atmosphere, thoughtful amenities, and easy access to Parikia and Naoussa, it’s an ideal base for relaxed island exploration.
Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has been graded as moderate due to the necessity to embark and disembark boats with luggage, (which is then stored in an easily accessible area just as you board the ferry). This moderate rating also reflects a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing. If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
Fresh Adventures for Inquisitive Travellers
Why Choose Travel Editions?
Travel with purpose, passion, and like-minded companions, here’s what sets Travel Editions apart.
Designed for Travellers,
Not Tourists
Founded in 1994 offering unique cultural tours beyond typical high street itineraries.
Personal Service, Real People
Small, friendly team with no automated phone lines. Enjoy personal attention from our team.
Expert Tour Guides, Unique Insights
Industry-leading guides, some since day one, who speak local languages and have detailed knowledge.
Win a 2027 Holiday for Two!
Sign Up To Our
Newsletter For A
Chance To Win
Our newsletter keeps you up to date with the latest news from Travel Editions, including new tours, special departures and travel inspiration. You’ll also receive articles from our expert tour lecturers and tour managers, along with insights into the destinations, history, art and culture that shape our holidays.
"*" indicates required fields
