Athens, Mykonos & Santorini: 8 Day Tour

Discover Greece in 8 Days: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini Tour Review

Planning a trip to Greece can feel overwhelming with its countless islands, historic sites, and vibrant culture. That’s where an 8-day guided tour like this one from MAZI TRAVEL SERVICES offers a practical way to see the highlights without the hassle of planning each step. We’ve taken a close look at what this itinerary delivers, and here’s the scoop—plus what you should keep in mind before booking.

Three things we genuinely like about this experience are the carefully curated itinerary, the inclusion of guided tours and private transfers, and how it balances iconic sights with free time. The tour hits all the must-see spots in Athens, from the Acropolis to Monastiraki, then whisking you to the picture-perfect islands of Mykonos and Santorini. The ferry rides are included, which is a huge convenience, and the accommodations seem to offer a comfortable base for exploring.

However, a potential consideration is the pace—this tour packs in a lot, so if you prefer slow travel or want more time on each island, it might feel a bit rushed. Still, for first-timers or those with limited time, this setup maximizes highlights efficiently.

This experience suits travelers who want an organized, hassle-free way to explore Greece’s top destinations, especially if they’re keen on cultural sights and stunning sunsets. It’s also great for those who appreciate a mix of guided and free time, and prefer the comfort of hotel stays with some included excursions.

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Key Points

All-in-one package: Combines city sightseeing, island hopping, and relaxing free time.
Comfortable accommodations: 4-star in Athens, 3-star in Mykonos and Santorini.
Ease of travel: Includes ferry tickets, private transfers, and guided tours.
Balanced itinerary: Mix of guided experiences and free exploration.
Stunning views: Especially in Santorini’s sunsets and Mykonos’ iconic windmills.
Limited group size: Small group of no more than 15 for a more personal experience.

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In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Looking for more options in Athens? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

Your Grecian adventure begins with a luxurious private transfer from Athens International Airport to your hotel. The hotel choice is a 4-star property, promising comfort and good amenities after your travel. Once checked in, the evening is free—perfect for a first stroll, maybe around Plaka or enjoying a local tavern, without feeling rushed.

Day 2: Panoramic Tour of Athens

The next day kicks off with a comprehensive guided tour covering Athens’ most famous landmarks. Our review of past participants mentions how the guide’s insights add depth to the experience, especially at the Acropolis, where history comes alive through stories about the Parthenon and Erechtheion.

Highlights include the Panathenaic Stadium, the only marble stadium in the world, built for the first modern Olympic Games in 1896, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus, whose towering columns leave visitors in awe. The drive past the Hellenic Parliament and Constitution Square offers a glimpse into modern Greece’s political heart, while the Acropolis Museum showcases artifacts that deepen your understanding of ancient Athens.

Past travelers appreciate how the guided tour is half-day, leaving plenty of time for your own exploration in the afternoon. Whether you want to visit additional sites, relax at a café, or shop, this flexibility is a plus.

Day 3: From Athens to Mykonos

After breakfast, you’ll enjoy a private transfer to Piraeus Port, followed by a shared ferry ride to Mykonos. The ferry’s included, which keeps things smooth and stress-free, and gives you a chance to enjoy the Aegean views.

On arrival, a transfer to your 3-star hotel awaits, and the rest of the day is yours. Past guests have praised the ease of this transfer, noting it allows for a relaxed start on the island. The hotel location seems good for exploring, with options to visit the famous beaches or wander into Matogiannia’s lively streets.

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Day 4: Leisure in Mykonos

This day is open for personal choices. You might opt for lounging on sandy beaches like Paradise or Super Paradise, or exploring the island’s charming boutiques. The small group size means you can ask the guide for personalized recommendations, or just enjoy wandering at your own pace.

Many reviewers love how this free day allows for spontaneous adventures, whether that’s snapping photos of the iconic windmills or enjoying fresh seafood by the waterfront.

There's plenty more to explore in Athens

Day 5: Mykonos to Santorini

Another breakfast kickstarts your day, followed by a transfer to Mykonos Port and a shared ferry ride to Santorini. Ferry rides again are included, making the transition between islands straightforward.

Upon arrival in Santorini, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, where you can unwind before your free evening. Travelers often remark on the spectacular views from the ferry decks and the charm of the island’s familiar whitewashed buildings.

Day 6: Exploring Santorini

This day is dedicated to discovering Santorini’s renowned sights. Many travelers find the sunsets in Oia unforgettable, and the guided tour often includes stops in Fira, Pyrgos, and the volcano area.

Your guide may share stories about the island’s volcanic history, adding context to the stunning scenery. Free time here is ample—ideal for wandering narrow streets, shopping for souvenirs, or simply soaking in the views.

Reviewers highlight how the beauty of Santorini’s landscapes makes every photo a keeper, and many mention the balance of guided and independent exploration as a major perk.

Day 7: Return to Athens

After breakfast, you’ll take a shared ferry back to Athens. The return trip offers more scenic views, and arriving in Athens in the late afternoon means you have time to revisit favorite spots or enjoy a relaxed evening.

Your hotel is again a 4-star property, providing a comfortable base before your departure. Some guests appreciate the chance to revisit the Acropolis at sunset or dine at a rooftop restaurant.

Day 8: Departure

Your tour ends with a luxurious private transfer to Athens International Airport. Reflecting on the trip, travelers often say the tour offers excellent value for its all-inclusive approach and well-chosen accommodations.

Why This Tour Works

The combination of guided sightseeing and free time strikes a nice balance. You get the chance to see Athens’ key landmarks, enjoy relaxed ferry rides, and experience the islands’ natural beauty without the stress of planning each detail.

The small group size lends itself to a more personalized journey, and the included transfers mean you won’t need to worry about logistics or tickets—just focus on soaking in the views and history. The accommodations are noted as comfortable and well-positioned, supporting both sightseeing and relaxation.

The ferry rides deserve special mention—they’re smooth, included, and give an authentic feel of island-hopping in Greece. Many guests find that the sunset views in Santorini alone make the trip worth it, and the opportunity to explore at your own pace adds flexibility.

That said, be prepared for a somewhat fast-paced schedule—if you prefer a more leisurely trip, you might want to extend your stay or skip certain optional extras. But for those wanting a snapshot of Greece’s highlights, this tour delivers.

Who Will Love This Experience

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a taste of Greece’s most iconic sights in a short period. Travelers who enjoy organized itineraries but still appreciate some free time will find it well-suited. It’s also ideal for those who want comfortable hotels and included logistics, avoiding the stress of independent planning.

If you’re a couple or a small group looking for a manageable, well-rounded introduction to Greece’s best, this trip ticks many boxes. However, if you prefer a slow, unstructured pace or traveling with very young children or mobility issues, this might not be the best fit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 2 years or those with mobility impairments, so it’s best suited for older kids or teenagers who can handle some walking and ferry rides.

Are all the transfers included?
Yes, all transfers mentioned—including from the airport, to the ferry ports, and between islands—are included in the package, making logistics simple.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to small groups of no more than 15 participants, providing a more intimate experience.

What’s the accommodation like?
In Athens, you stay in a 4-star hotel, while on Mykonos and Santorini, the hotels are 3-star, offering comfort and good locations to explore.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included every morning, but lunch and dinner are at your own expense, giving you flexibility to explore local cuisine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind for flexible planning.

What language is the tour guided in?
Guides speak Greek and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

To sum it up, this 8-day Greece tour offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and authentic island experiences. It’s particularly valuable for first-timers wanting a comprehensive introduction to Athens and the iconic islands of Mykonos and Santorini, all without the stress of self-organizing ferry tickets and transfers. The included highlights, comfortable accommodations, and small group setting create a memorable, well-organized journey through some of Greece’s most stunning scenery and historic sites. It’s a solid choice for travelers looking for both guided insight and personal exploration, making it a worthwhile investment in a captivating Greek adventure.