15 Day Private Tour in Ancient Greece, Mykonos and Santorini

Discover Greece in 15 Days: Ancient Sites, Cycladic Islands & Authentic Experiences

This 15-day private tour takes you through Greece’s most iconic landmarks and stunning islands, all with the comfort of pre-arranged hotels, private transportation, and expert guides. Starting in Athens, you’ll explore the Acropolis, Ancient Olympia, and Delphi, before heading north to Meteora and Vergina. Then, you’ll hop to the islands of Mykonos and Santorini, enjoying boat trips, sunset views, and local flavor along the way. The total cost is around $6,200 per person, which, given the depth of experiences, private guides, and seamless logistics, is quite competitive.

What we love most? First, the carefully curated itinerary covers both Greece’s legendary ruins and breathtaking landscapes, giving us a rundown without feeling rushed. Second, the included transportation—by land and sea—means no stress about arranging ferries or taxis, leaving you free to enjoy the sights. However, keep in mind that the itinerary is quite packed, so if you prefer more downtime or private leisure, you might find the schedule a tad intense.

This tour suits travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized experience with a mixture of history, culture, and island relaxation. It’s especially ideal for first-timers or those who want a knowledgeable guide to illuminate the stories behind each landmark. If you’re looking for an authentic taste of Greece — beyond just beaches and tacky souvenirs — this tour offers a balanced mix of guided exploration and free time.

Key Points

• All-inclusive transport ensures smooth travel between historic sites and islands.
• Pre-booked hotels make logistics hassle-free, so you can focus on the experience.
• Guided tours of key archaeological sites help you truly understand Greece’s history.
• Boat tours of Mykonos and Santorini add a scenic touch to your island adventures.
• Authentic culinary stops, like honey farms and olive oil tastings, deepen your culture.
• Well-paced itinerary balances sightseeing with moments to relax or explore on your own.

A Deep Dive into the 15-Day Greek Journey

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Greece, blending magnificent ruins, scenic landscapes, and lively island atmospheres. Starting with Athens, you’ll visit the Acropolis, where you will walk through the same stones that inspired Western civilization. You’ll meet your guide here, getting insights into the Parthenon and the Porch of the Caryatids — sights that truly embody ancient Greek craftsmanship and philosophy. The Acropolis Museum, built over an archaeological site, provides a fascinating look at artifacts from the Acropolis, with a glass floor revealing excavations beneath—a detail that makes the experience feel connected to the ongoing life of Athens.

A highlight from reviews highlights the value of knowledgeable guides: “First day there we were running a bit late as the hotel receptionist wasn’t there for us to checkout but Spyros still managed to keep up on time and get us to our locations.” Having local experts who can adapt to unexpected delays makes a big difference when you’re trying to see as much as possible. Expect to spend about two hours at the Acropolis and an additional hour at the museum, which ensures plenty of time to absorb the history without feeling rushed.

From Athens, the tour heads south on a day packed with visits: the Corinth Canal, the ancient city of Corinth, and a spectacular train ride on the Odontotos cog railway through Vouraikos Canyon. The journey on this narrow gauge train is renowned as one of the most beautiful rail trips in the Balkans, passing waterfalls, tunnels, and pine forests, making it a memorable highlight. Afterwards, you’ll visit Kalavrita’s Cave of Lakes, where lakes of varying colors sit within the mountains, providing a serene, almost mystical setting.

After a relaxed lunch in Nafplio, Greece’s first capital, the itinerary guides you through the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, celebrated for its acoustics—music or speech spoken here can be heard clearly from every seat. The next stop is Mycenae, with its legendary Lion Gate and Cyclopean walls. Here, you’ll get a glimpse into Mycenaean civilization, with ruins echoing stories from Homeric epics.

From Ancient to Modern: Olympia, Delphi, and Meteora

The journey continues to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. You’ll walk among the ruins of the stadium, treasury houses, and the temple of Zeus, home to the renowned golden ivory statue of Zeus. A special treat is the market of Olympia, where you can taste local olive oils, wines, and honey—a genuine culinary highlight. A visit to the Klio’s Honey Farm adds a sweet touch, with honey-based desserts and a chance to sample regional products.

Next, you’ll visit Naupactus for a seaside stop before heading to Delphi, perhaps Greece’s most famous archaeological site. The Oracle of Delphi, the stadium, and the theatre are all on your list. The nearby town of Arachova offers a charming village experience, with traditional architecture and mountain views—perfect for a coffee or lunch break.

The highlight of the trip is Meteora, where the landscape is straight out of a fantasy novel. Tour the UNESCO-listed monasteries perched atop towering rock formations, with The Holy Monastery of Great Meteoro and St. Stephan offering glimpses into monastic life. The sunset over Meteora is a photographer’s dream, and many reviews mention the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere.

Exploring Macedonia: Vergina, Veroia, and Thessaloniki

Heading north, the tour visits Vergina, home to the royal tombs of Macedonia. The Royal Tomb of Philip II is a major archaeological breakthrough, revealing treasures of the ancient Macedonians. Nearby, Veroia offers a glimpse into Biblical history with Saint Paul’s Bema and its old Jewish quarter.

Finally, Thessaloniki becomes your base for visiting Pella, Alexander the Great’s birthplace. Here, you can admire 4th-century mosaics and learn about Macedonia’s ancient rulers. The Edessa Waterfalls and the village of Naousa provide scenic breaks, making the journey feel less like a checklist and more like a shared adventure.

From Greece’s Heart to Its Islands

The island hopping begins with a ferry ride from Piraeus port to Mykonos. Once on the island, the lively Mykonos Town with its Little Venice and vibrant streets is a highlight. You might choose to take an optional tour to Delos, a UNESCO site with ancient ruins and mythological significance as the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The boat trip includes a BBQ lunch—a great way to relax and socialize.

A quick ferry transfer transports you to Santorini—famous for its sunset in Oia. You’ll be dazzled by the volcanic landscapes, whitewashed buildings, and blue-domed churches. The Palea Kameni hot springs cruise offers a chance to bathe in mineral-rich waters, although this optional activity costs extra. The onboard BBQ and sunset views are often praised as unforgettable moments.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This 15-day journey is ideal for those who want an all-encompassing Greek experience without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect if you appreciate historical insights from guides, enjoy scenic boat rides, and want to combine cultural exploration with island leisure. The tour’s practical approach—hotels pre-booked, transportation included—means less stress and more time to soak in Greece’s beauty.

Travelers who value authentic experiences like local honey tastings, olive oil samples, and guided ruins tours will find this particularly rewarding. It’s also well-suited for first-time visitors eager to see Greece’s highlights and for those who prefer a small group or private setting that fosters personal attention and flexibility.

However, if you prefer more free time or a more relaxed pace in each location, the packed schedule might feel a bit intense. Also, the price reflects the convenience and guided nature of the tour, so budget-minded travelers might want to weigh the value of seamless logistics against their own DIY plans.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is private, so you’ll be part of an exclusive group, which often makes solo travelers feel more comfortable and connected.

Are the accommodations included?
Yes, the tour includes 14 nights in prebooked hotels across nine different cities, ensuring convenient logistics and comfortable stays.

What kind of transportation is used?
All land and sea transport are included, with private transfers and ferry tickets, making moving between sites smooth and hassle-free.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While this specific tour has a set schedule, it’s a private experience, so some adjustments could be possible—discuss with your guide after booking.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, and there are designated stops for tasting local products, but meals beyond breakfast are not included in the package.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While mostly geared toward adult travelers, families comfortable with a busy schedule and some walking will enjoy the mix of history and island fun.

What’s the best way to prepare for this trip?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunscreen, and a camera for all the scenic and archaeological marvels. A good attitude and curiosity will enhance your experience.

This 15-day private tour offers a detailed, engaging way to uncover Greece’s ancient and modern charm. With expert guides, seamless logistics, and a carefully designed itinerary, it’s tailored for travelers who want to truly experience the essence of Greece — from the legendary ruins to stunning sunsets over the Aegean.