3-Day Private Island Tour: Santorini, Mykonos, form Athens

Experience the Charm of Greece’s Iconic Islands in Just Three Days

If you’re dreaming of Greece’s stunning islands but only have a short window, this 3-day private tour offers a compelling way to experience the highlights of Santorini and Mykonos from Athens. While it’s a quick jaunt, it packs in enough sightseeing, scenic views, and authentic moments to leave you with lasting memories.

What we love about this experience is the seamless combination of private transfers, ferry rides, and carefully curated stops, all designed to maximize your time without feeling rushed. The chance to wander through Oia’s legendary sunset, explore the colorful alleys of Fira, and relax on Mykonos’ famed beaches makes it a well-rounded trip. A potential downside is that it’s quite fast-paced — if you crave in-depth exploration, you might find this feels more like a snapshot than a deep dive.

This tour suits travelers who want to see Greece’s most famous islands without committing to long stays. It’s perfect for those with limited time, first-time visitors, or anyone eager to tick off the basic sights of Santorini and Mykonos with ease. Now, let’s break down what makes this journey worthwhile.

Key Points

• Comfortable private transfers ensure smooth travel between hotels, ports, and attractions.
• Ferry rides between Piraeus, Mykonos, and Santorini are included, offering scenic routes and authentic island experiences.
• Authentic sightseeing includes walking through “Little Venice,” exploring “Matogiania” streets, and enjoying breathtaking sunset views.
• Accommodation with breakfast provides convenience and energy for busy days.
• The price point offers good value considering private transfers, ferries, and quality lodging.
• Not suited for wheelchair users, and some optional experiences like sunset cruises are not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Athens to Mykonos

Your journey begins in Athens, where a private driver will meet you at your hotel for a transfer to the Piraeus port. The ferry ride to Mykonos is a scenic highlight, giving you a taste of the Aegean’s shimmering waters. Once on the island, a private transfer drops you at your hotel, setting you up for a relaxed evening.

Mykonos is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic landscapes. You’ll love strolling through “Little Venice”, an area famous for its colorful buildings perched right on the water. It’s an ideal spot for photos and soaking in the lively yet charming vibe. Many reviews mention how walking the narrow streets of “Matogiania” reveals a mix of traditional Cycladic architecture, boutique shops, and cozy tavernas. The island’s stunning beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise offer a chance to unwind, though the tour doesn’t include beach time as a formal part of the schedule.

Day 2: Mykonos to Santorini

In the morning, your private driver will take you back to the port for a ferry to Santorini. This trip is about three hours, providing ample time to enjoy the passing scenery and imagine the volcano’s dramatic influence on the island’s landscape.

Once in Santorini, you’ll be transferred to your hotel where you can settle in and explore. The highlight here is Oia, a tiny village famous worldwide for its mesmerizing sunsets. Many travelers appreciate how the tour provides the chance to see this iconic view firsthand — a moment often described as “breathtaking” and “unforgettable.” The narrow, winding streets of Fira also offer great shopping and photo opportunities, with many reviews praising the lively atmosphere and stunning caldera views.

Day 3: Santorini to Athens

The final day involves a private transfer from your hotel to the port for your ferry back to Piraeus. After arriving in Athens, your driver will assist with transfer to your hotel, wrapping up a whirlwind but memorable island adventure.

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What Does the Tour Include and Exclude?

The tour offers private transfers in each location, which means no waiting around for public transportation and a more personalized experience. Accommodation with breakfast is included for two nights, giving you a comfortable base to start each day.

Ferry tickets from Piraeus to Mykonos, then to Santorini, and back to Athens are part of the package — an excellent convenience that simplifies logistics and helps you focus on enjoying the views. All taxes are included, removing any surprise costs.

However, meals beyond breakfast, personal expenses, and optional activities like a sunset cruise in the caldera are not included. This gives you flexibility to explore or indulge as you prefer. Keep in mind, hotel city taxes are paid directly at the hotel, so budget accordingly.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

Many travelers find that the ferry rides are a highlight, offering stunning vistas of the Aegean Sea. The private transfers ensure that you’re not lost in unfamiliar transportation systems, especially helpful if you’re new to Greece.

The timings are designed to maximize your sightseeing; however, since the tour is quite tight, it’s best to be ready for early mornings and a busy schedule. The tour’s overall cost of $1,396 per person offers good value considering all included elements, especially private transfers and ferry tickets, which can be costly if booked separately.

The experience might feel rushed for some, particularly those who enjoy slower pacing or in-depth exploration. Reviews note that while the tour covers the main sights, it’s more about ticking boxes rather than leisurely discovering each island in detail. But for many, that’s exactly what they want: a curated, hassle-free taste of Greece’s most famous islands.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

If your goal is to see Santorini’s sunset, wander through colorful alleys, and relax on iconic beaches without spending days on logistics, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or travelers with a limited schedule who want a snapshot of Greece’s best.

The private nature of transfers means you avoid the crowds and waiting, making the experience smoother and more comfortable. Plus, the included ferry tickets add an element of adventure, letting you feel like part of the island life.

On the downside, if you prefer in-depth exploration or slow travel, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Plus, those sensitive to tight schedules or looking for a fully inclusive package with extra activities might want to consider other options.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers seeking a luxurious, efficient way to see Greece’s island highlights, this tour offers impressive value. It balances convenience with authentic experiences, from sunset views to walking through traditional streets.

It’s ideal for those who want a taste of Mykonos’ lively beaches and Santorini’s romantic vistas without the hassle of planning ferries and transfers themselves. The inclusion of private transport and breakfast makes it a comfortable, seamless option.

However, keep in mind the pace — if you’re craving a slow, immersive getaway, you might prefer a longer stay or a more relaxed arrangement. But if you’re after a memorable snapshot of Greece’s iconic islands, this tour delivers that with style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers can join. The tour is designed for individuals as well as groups, and the private transfers add comfort and convenience.

Are meals included besides breakfast?
No, meals beyond breakfast are not included, giving you the freedom to explore local eateries and try authentic Greek cuisine on your own.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule, but optional activities like sunset cruises are not included and can be added separately if desired.

Is transportation fully private?
Yes, all transfers between hotels, ports, and islands are private, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience.

How long are the ferry rides?
From Piraeus to Mykonos, and then to Santorini, the ferry rides are approximately three hours each, offering scenic views during the journey.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $1,396 per person, which includes private transfers, ferry tickets, two nights of accommodation with breakfast, and all taxes.

Is there any time allocated for relaxing on the beaches?
While the itinerary includes sightseeing and sunset viewing, dedicated beach time isn’t part of the scheduled activities, but you can choose to visit beaches on your free time.

Are there any accessibility limitations?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, due to the nature of ferry travel and the terrain on some islands.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour good for first-time visitors to Greece?
Absolutely. It’s designed to cover classic sights and experiences, perfect for those new to Greece or short on time.

This 3-day private island tour offers a smart, comfortable way to experience Greece’s most loved islands. Whether you’re after stunning sunsets, picturesque streets, or a taste of island life, it hits a lot of high notes, making it a worthwhile choice for a quick, yet memorable getaway.

You can check availability for your dates here: