Greece·30 September - 7 October 2025

The Glamorous Greek Islands

Naxos and Paros: the Gateway to the Greek Islands

SOLD OUT INQUIRE
iStock1408737031

Overview

Feel the Mediterranean sun, hear the waves, and see whitewashed houses along rugged coastlines—this is Greece, alive on our journey to enchanting Naxos and Paros. Unlike bustling Santorini and Mykonos, these islands offer peaceful charm for travelers seeking Greece’s magic without crowds. Here, discover serene beauty and endless blue skies. Our adventure starts in Athens, where ancient myths meet modern spirit. Stand before the Acropolis and feel the echoes of the past. In the Acropolis Museum, walk among treasures telling stories of gods and heroes. Then, wander Plaka’s narrow streets, revealing charming boutiques and hidden tavernas serving flavors that make you fall in love with Greek cuisine. Next, we head to Naxos, where golden beaches invite you to slow down and savor every moment. Stroll through cobbled streets, find family-run cafés, and embrace the island’s warmth. After Naxos, we sail to Paros, where vibrant energy meets timeless beauty. Swim in turquoise waters, explore secluded coves, and watch sunsets paint the sky in gold and pink. Late September and early October showcase Greece’s finest—gentle breezes, warm seas, and lingering golden sunsets. The dream awaits… ready to dive in?

Highlights

Tour the Acropolis and museum

Tour the Acropolis and museum

Indulge in a walking food tour of Central Athens

Indulge in a walking food tour of Central Athens

Spend a day on a luxury boat on the sea off Paros

Spend a day on a luxury boat on the sea off Paros

Participate in a wine tasting at a local winery

Participate in a wine tasting at a local winery

Relax in a luxurious spa

Relax in a luxurious spa

Participate in a cooking class featuring fresh ingredients

Participate in a cooking class featuring fresh ingredients

Itinerary

Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip. Press the "<" and ">" buttons below to scroll through each day.

Previous

Next

Acropolis

Welcome to Athens

Day 1: Tuesday, September 30th, 2025

Touch down at Athens Airport (ATH) and feel the thrill of your adventure unfolding! After breezing through customs and picking up your bags, your journey truly begins. Ready to immerse yourself in the heart of Athens? Take a taxi to the elegant Electra Metropolis.

Take some time to rest, relax, and settle in. We'll meet in the lobby around 4 pm, then set off for an enchanted evening at Athens' majestic Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum. Wander through ancient pathways, marvel at the Parthenon's timeless grandeur, and immerse yourself in the rich history of this iconic citadel overlooking the city.

Following our visit to the Acropolis, we'll meander through Athens' picturesque streets towards Ergon House for a dinner infused with fresh, local flavors and Mediterranean delights. 

Rest will come easily tonight, wrapped in the warmth of a perfect first day in Greece.

Included

Dinner

Acropolis Tour

Not Included

Airport Transfer

Plakaatnight

Athens

Day 2: Wednesday, October 1st, 2025

Start your day with a delightful hotel breakfast. We'll depart the hotel mid-morning for a walking food tour of Central Athens. Together, we'll savor several Greek delicacies you’ve never heard of, many of which you won’t find back home.

Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure, delving deeper into Athens' cultural treasures. Explore the charming alleys of Plaka, discover hidden gems like the Ancient Agora, or relax at a local café, soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere and genuine hospitality.

We'll reconvene in the hotel lobby in the evening, then stroll to Kuzina, where we'll enjoy a memorable rooftop dinner. Innovative Greek cuisine meets breathtaking views of Athens' lively nightlife at this rooftop restaurant.

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Food tour for Lunch

iStock1267863564

Naxos

Day 3: Thursday, October 2nd, 2025

After savoring breakfast at the hotel, our exciting journey to Naxos begins, the first jewel in your island-hopping adventure. We'll transfer to the airport and take off to Nissiki Beach Hotel, where azure waters and pristine sands await your arrival with the promise of relaxation and rejuvenation.

Your Naxos exploration starts with a guided walk through its charming heart, Naxos Town. Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed buildings dressed in vibrant bougainvillea. Discover ancient Venetian castles, Byzantine churches, and quaint artisan shops selling local crafts and delicacies. 

As the day transitions to evening, we'll savor a memorable dining experience at Duokato, a cherished family-owned restaurant. Delight in traditional Greek dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by regional wines that perfectly complement the flavors. 

Included

Breakfast & Dinner

Flight

Airport transfer

Guided Walking Tour

Not Included

Lunch

naxoscookingclass

Naxos

Day 4: Friday, October 3rd, 2025

Today is all about creating memories!

We'll start the morning with a delicious breakfast before diving into pure relaxation. Wander through town to explore hidden gems or unwind on the serene beach — the choice is yours! Around midday, we’ll gather at a cozy local taverna, Maro's Taverna, to enjoy an authentic lunch together.

In the afternoon, we’ll journey to a picturesque village, where a cooking class awaits. Stroll through lush fields and handpick fresh ingredients from the farm to create your own farm-to-table dinner. As the day melts into the evening, savor Naxos wine while taking in a breathtaking sunset — the perfect way to end a day of culinary adventure and connection!

Included

All meals

Cooking class

iStock518846766

Paros

Day 5: Saturday, October 4th, 2025

After breakfast, we'll pack and head to the port to catch the ferry to Paros. Enjoy the scenic ride over the Aegean Sea to this charming island.

On arrival, we'll drive to Cove Paros Hotel, our cozy retreat in peaceful surroundings. Today, we'll have lunch overlooking the beach at Rada. This restaurant offers a unique culinary experience, utilizing only the freshest produce and seasonal ingredients.

Later, we'll meet our guide for an engaging stroll through the charming seaside town of Naoussa

Explore and shop in Naoussa before dinner at Safran, a popular spot known for its authentic Greek cuisine and beautiful harbor views. Enjoy fresh seafood and local specialties paired with Greek wines, reflecting on a day enriched with exploration and photography on the picturesque island of Paros.

Included

Ferry

All Meals

Guided Walking Tour

Antiparos

A day on the water

Day 6: Sunday, October 5th, 2025

After a satisfying breakfast, we'll board a luxurious cruise on a private boat for a full day at sea. Glide over the sparkling waters surrounding Paros, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and panoramic views of the Cyclades islands.

We'll cruise along the Paros coast, stopping to swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. This tranquil oasis, with its turquoise hues and secluded coves, is perfect for a dip. Our voyage continues on to the sea caves, where the azure waters meet majestic rock formations, creating an enchanting backdrop for exploration.

Enjoy a savory traditional Greek BBQ served on a picturesque beach for lunch. Indulge in grilled seafood, local meats, and vibrant salads, embracing the flavors of the Mediterranean.

As the day winds down, we'll return to shore and relax! Dinner is on your own this evening. Arrange your own dinner at one of the many quaint tavernas in town or order room service at the hotel.

Included

Breakfast & Lunch

Boat Excursion

Not Included

Dinner

buildingandflower2

Paros

Day 7: Monday, October 6th, 2025

After a relaxed breakfast, we'll spend the morning at a gorgeous resort and spa. Everyone will enjoy a relaxing massage while listening to the sounds of the waves.

Lunch and a wine tasting will follow at Moraitis Winery, the oldest working winery in Paros. Even better, it's just a short walk down the street from our hotel. Enjoy a guided wine-tasting session with artisanal cheeses in a serene vineyard.

As the day winds down, we'll return and prepare for a memorable final evening together at Daverona, a celebrated restaurant known for its exquisite Greek cuisine and elegant ambiance. Enjoy an evening of fine dining, sharing stories of the trip's adventures. 

Included

All meals

Wine tasting

Spa Treatment

iStock673667508

Paros and Athens

Day 8: Tuesday, October 7th, 2025

Enjoy an early breakfast before we journey to the airport for our flight back to Athens. 

Consider opting for an afternoon flight or extending your stay in Athens to soak up more of the city's charm. While our time in Greece may be drawing to a close, the memories and stories you'll take home with you are sure to last a lifetime. 

Please note that the transfer will be leaving the hotel at 7:30 am for the 09:35 am flight back to Athens. 

Included

Breakfast

Flight to Athens

Group Airport Transfer

You'll Be Staying Here

Electra Metropolis

Electra Metropolis

The centrally located Electra Metropolis is applauded by many for its easy access to shopping, restaurants, and attractions.

Its stylish rooms offer a taste of modern Greek architecture blended with a few ancient ruins scattered around the property.  

Nissaki Beach Hotel

Nissaki Beach Hotel

Situated on the beach in Naxos, Nissaki Beach Hotel will be our home away from home while we are in Naxos.  

We'll delight in the sea breeze that wakes us up each morning while enjoying proximity to the main attractions in town. 

Cove Paros Hotel

Cove Paros Hotel

Achieving the ideal fusion of style and comfort, the Cove Paros is a boutique hotel characterized by clean architectural lines, earthy materials, and meticulous attention to detail, all basking under the warmth of the Aegean sun.

Hosts

L. Leigh Rhoad

L. Leigh Rhoad

Leigh Rhoads is your guide for this journey, bringing both a wealth of experience and an adventurous spirit. She hails from the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, where Southern charm and warmth come naturally to her. A Civil Rights attorney by profession and a yoga enthusiast at heart, Leigh thrives on finding balance between her career, raising lively twin children, and exploring the world. Her travels have been fueled by a desire to connect with people, uncover new perspectives, and create unforgettable memories. Leigh can’t wait to welcome you on this adventure and make it truly special.

Price

Private Room

Private Room

Everyone gets their own fabulous room!

FROM$9,795

Add Ons

Arrive One Day Early in Athens

Arrive One Day Early in Athens

Includes one night with breakfast at the Electra Hotel

PRICE$599.00

SOLD OUT
Stay one night longer in Athens

Stay one night longer in Athens

Includes one night with breakfast at the Electra Hotel

PRICE$599.00

ADD THIS

Jewels of the Cyclades

Naxos and Paros

Naxos and Paros stand out as quintessential Greek island destinations.  These islands invite you to indulge in local cuisine, explore historical treasures, and immerse yourself in their rich cultural heritage amidst stunning Aegean landscapes. 

Naxos boasts sandy beaches, ancient ruins like the Portara gate, and a charming old town adorned with Cycladic architecture and quaint churches. 

Meanwhile, Paros offers a tranquil escape with its picturesque white-washed villages, vibrant bougainvillea, and secluded chapels.

Naxos and Paros

What's Included

What's Included

All meals (except where indicated) including beer or wine with dinner

All transportation during the trip (except where indicated)

All entry fee and tickets listed in the itinerary

Expert guides, guided tours, and trip leaders

Wine tastings listed in the itinerary

Walking food tour of Central Athens

Traditional Greek BBQ on the beach

Guided walking tour of Naxos

Spa treatment in Naxos

Visit to the Acropolis Museum

Lodging at unique hotels

Luxury Boat Cruise

In country flights

Additional wine, beer, or spirits beyond what is offered at meals.

Travel and Medical Insurance (required)

Roundtrip airfare to Athens.

All personal souvenirs

Reviews

"Just returned from a fabulous trip to Greece! What a wonderful experience that I couldn't have created on my own. Very authentic and the right mix of culture, food and wine tastings, adventures and fun! The other travelers were delightful and Doni and Beth were very accommodating and knowledgeable. Highly recommend! The friendships you'll develop will be priceless!!!!"

Marsha K, Jun 2021 on Trip Advisor

"It's been almost two weeks since returning from my trip to Greece with Girls Guide to Paris & Beyond and I am still processing the experiences and reflecting on the wonderful women I met. This was, without a doubt, the best led group trip I have been on! Our days were thoughtfully planned and filled with culture, food/wine, and fun! [...] I highly recommend travelling with Girls Guide to Paris & Beyond! I am already planning my next trip!"

Jenn R, Jun 2021 on Trip Advisor

FAQs

Fly into the Athens International Airport (ATH).

The trip officially starts on the afternoon of September 30th, 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 choose to arrive early, please inform us by reserving a pre-trip room in the Add-On section. We will handle your room booking and ensure that you remain in the same room until the trip begins. 

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°F and lows of 69°F, but keep in mind that 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. 

Presently, if you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Greece for tourism stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended travel dates. 

We require that everyone traveling with Girls' Guide be able to comfortably walk 3–5 miles per day unassisted, and without difficulty, can navigate stairs, uneven streets or paths, and occasional steep terrain. Most of our trips require this level of physical mobility and fitness, especially when visiting historic towns and landmarks where vehicle access is limited and walking often offers the best experience.


Additionally, some of the 4 and 5-star boutique or historic hotels we stay in do not have elevators and may require climbing stairs to get to your room or access other facilities in the hotel.

Inquire about this trip

The Glamorous Greek Islands

Greece· 30 September - 7 October 2025· 7 nights