When you think of Greece, you imagine whitewashed houses and a turquoise, blue sea. That's exactly what you will find when you travel with us to the glamorous islands of Naxos and Paros. The well-traveled know these islands, yet the islands, unlike Santorini and Mykonos, are not over-touristed. Our trip will start in Athens, the birthplace of democracy. Here, you will visit the ancient site of the Acropolis and the modern Acropolis Museum. You’ll wander the narrow Plaka (old town) streets, looking for unique souvenirs. You’ll eat your way through the city on a culinary adventure, all before you board the plane to the Greek Islands. Our first stop is Naxos, a laid-back island wrapped in long beaches and boasting a charming main village. The second stop is Paros, with its pulsing nightlife and world-class shopping. Both islands have some of the best beaches in all of Greece. Late September or early October is a lovely time to swim in the warm Aegean Sea.
Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip.
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The centrally located Gatsby Athens is applauded by many for its easy access to shopping, restaurants, and attractions.
Situated on the beach in Naxos, Nissaki Beach Hotel will be our home away from home while we are in Naxos.
Within walking distance of the beach and town, the Bohemian Luxury Boutique Hotel offers the perfect mix of laidback and action.
Because of her Greek background, Stacia is in her happy place the minute she steps off the plane in Greece. She loves exploring ancient and modern sites and wandering in local markets looking for unique items to decorate her home. Olive oil and spices are some of Stacia’s favorite gifts to take home to friends and family. When not in Greece, Stacia enjoys hiking in her hometown of Denver and the mountains beyond.
Jewels of the Cyclades
Gorgeous beaches, white washed houses, ancient ruins, typical Cycladic architecture, and charming churches - yet less discovered than Mykonos or Santorini.
Lodging at unique hotels
Spa treatment in Naxos
Truffle Hunt
All entry fee and tickets listed in the itinerary
All transportation during the trip (except where indicated)
All meals (except where indicated) including beer or wine with dinner
In country flights
Expert guides, guided tours, and trip leaders
Wine tastings listed in the itinerary
Luxury Boat Cruise
Roundtrip airfare to Athens.
All personal souvenir purchases
Travel and Medical Insurance (required)
Additional wine, beer, or spirits beyond what is offered at meals.
You'll want to fly into the Athens International Airport
The trip officially starts on the afternoon of September 27th, but if you are traveling across an ocean to get to Athens, consider arriving a day early so you have time to relax and adjust to the local time zone. If you do decide to arrive early, please let us know and we will take care of booking your room for you and make sure that you are kept in the same room until the trip starts.
About 6-8 weeks before the trip starts, we'll organize a Zoom video call to discuss all the details of the trip and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.
Highs of 72 degrees and lows of 69, late September and early October on these two islands is idyllic and still warm enough to swim. Athens temperatures are virtually the same however at times it can get a bit chilly at night so bring a light jacket or sweater.