2-day Tour from Athens to Santorini and Mykonos

A Quick Look at the 2-Day Tour from Athens to Santorini and Mykonos

If you’re dreaming of ticking off two of Greece’s most iconic islands in a single whirlwind trip, this 2-day tour offers an organized, somewhat streamlined way to do it. For roughly $573 per person, you get door-to-door transfers, ferry rides, and hotel accommodation in Santorini, all packed into just under 48 hours. The journey kicks off early with a pickup in Athens, followed by a ferry cruise across the Aegean Sea, delivering you to Santorini’s famous caldera views and the charming streets of Mykonos.

What we really like about this experience is the convenience—especially the hotel and port transfers, which save you the hassle of navigating public transport or confusing schedules. Plus, having a night of accommodation sorted in Santorini makes it easier to relax and enjoy the scenery without rushing. However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary is quite tight, and some reviews suggest the short stay in Mykonos may leave you wishing for more time to truly soak in the island’s vibe.

This tour will suit travelers who value organized logistics and want to see the highlights without planning every detail themselves. It’s ideal for those on a short layover, first-time visitors to Greece, or anyone eager to get a taste of the islands while keeping costs reasonable. Just be prepared for a fast-paced experience—it’s more about seeing the sights than deep, leisurely exploration.

Key Points

• Convenient door-to-door transfers from Athens to the islands save time and effort.
• Pre-booked hotel in Santorini ensures smooth logistics without last-minute worries.
• Flexible free time allows you to explore each island at your own pace.
• Ferry rides offer stunning views of the Aegean and a chance to relax en route.
• Group size capped at 50 means you won’t be lost in a huge crowd.
• Limited time in Mykonos might feel rushed, especially if you want to explore extensively.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Athens to Santorini

The journey begins early, with pickup from your Athens hotel—most likely in the Plaka neighborhood, renowned for its narrow streets and lively atmosphere. The transport to Rafina port is straightforward, and the ferry cruise to Santorini is a highlight for many travelers. We loved the spectacular views of the caldera as the ferry approaches—an image that’s etched into most visitors’ memories. The ferry ride lasts around 6 hours, so be prepared for some sitting and gazing at the Aegean’s changing scenery.

Once you arrive in Santorini, a driver will greet you with a sign bearing your name and whisk you away to your hotel. The hotel itself is 3 or 4-star (depending on availability), offering a decent base to relax after the day’s travel. You’ll have the evening free—perfect for wandering the streets of Fira, enjoying local cuisine, or simply soaking in the sunset views over the caldera.

One review noted, “The ferry went smoothly and the pick up in Santorini went smoothly,” highlighting the efficiency of the transfer process. The hotel stay is a major plus, simplifying what could otherwise be a logistical headache.

Day 2: Santorini to Mykonos and Back to Athens

Next morning, you’ll be transferred back to the port to catch the ferry to Mykonos, leaving Santorini around 9:20 am. The trip takes approximately three hours, offering more chances to admire the Aegean’s shimmering waters. Once in Mykonos, the clock is ticking—here, you’ll have just a few hours to explore the island’s charming streets, shop in Matoyanni’s designer boutiques, or enjoy fresh seafood at seaside tavernas.

Many reviews mention how the free time on Mykonos is well-spent, but some felt that a longer stay would allow for more relaxed exploration. As one traveler put it, “Mykonos was too short to enjoy,” though others appreciated the opportunity to at least glimpse the island’s famous windmills and vibrant neighborhoods.

Your return ferry departs in the late afternoon, bringing you back to Rafina, followed by a car transfer to your hotel in Athens. This schedule ensures you get a taste of both islands’ unique atmospheres—Santorini’s dramatic cliffside villages and Mykonos’s lively streets—without the need for complex planning.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a lot of practical value. Included are hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation to and from Rafina port, ferry tickets Rafina-Santorini-Mykonos-Rafina, and a hotel stay in Santorini. Plus, each traveler gets a free hop-on/off bus ticket for Athens, a nice bonus for exploring the city upon your return.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you should budget extra for meals—many travelers rave about the delicious local seafood and tavernas, but be prepared for additional expenses. Some reviews also mention that additional tours or activities are not covered, so if you want to see more of each island, plan those separately.

Transportation and Logistics: Smooth but Busy

The ferry rides are generally smooth, with many travelers appreciating the views of the caldera and the open sea. The scheduled ferry times are fixed, so be sure to be on time to avoid missing the boat. The group transfer services from hotels to ports appear reliable, though some reviews talk about communication issues—so it’s wise to confirm your pickup time and location ahead of time.

The group size, capped at around 50 travelers, keeps things manageable, but you’ll likely be sharing space with fellow travelers from various countries. For those who prefer privacy, this might feel a bit crowded, but it’s a fair tradeoff for the convenience.

The Hotel and Accommodation

Staying overnight in Santorini simplifies your logistics, allowing you to relax without rushing early in the morning. The hotel’s star rating (3 or 4 stars) offers reasonable comfort, though reviews indicate that hotel quality can vary. Some travelers mentioned dissatisfaction with their hotels, so if comfort is a priority, it’s worth researching options or requesting specific preferences.

Timing and Pacing

This tour is very much a snapshots experience. You get to see the famous sights but at a quick pace. The short stay in Mykonos might leave those who want to explore deeply feeling a little disappointed. As one traveler said, “A night in Mykonos would have been the ultimate experience,” hinting that extending your visit would be ideal.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Travelers

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides and the ferry rides are well appreciated when they go smoothly. One traveler noted, “Yanna was extremely helpful,” suggesting that helpful guides can make a big difference. Others enjoyed the stunning views and delicious seafood, emphasizing that the islands’ natural beauty and cuisine are highlights—even when time is limited.

However, some reviewers mentioned communication issues regarding pickup times and hotel details, so prepare to double-check all arrangements. Also, be aware that additional expenses—like paying in Euros for optional tours—may catch you off guard if not prepared.

Is This Tour Worth It?

This tour provides a solid way to visit Santorini and Mykonos briefly, especially if you’re short on time or prefer organized travel. The ferry rides are a feature worth savoring, offering beautiful vistas and relaxing travel between islands. The hotel stay in Santorini is a major perk, making logistics hassle-free.

That said, if you’re a traveler seeking a more relaxed, in-depth experience or planning to explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed. The short stint in Mykonos, in particular, might leave you wishing for more time to wander and enjoy.

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail. It’s also a good choice for those on a tight schedule who want a taste of Greece’s most famous islands—and are okay with a fast-paced adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickup starts early morning, generally around 5:30 am, so be prepared for an early start to make the most of your day.

Are ferry tickets included?
Yes, all ferry tickets Rafina-Santorini-Mykonos-Rafina are included, allowing you to relax and enjoy the ride without additional costs.

Do I stay in a hotel in Santorini?
Yes, your tour includes pre-booked hotel accommodation on Santorini, making logistics smoother and giving you a comfortable place to unwind.

Is there free time in Mykonos?
Yes, you’ll have several hours in Mykonos to explore, shop, or enjoy local cuisine, but the time is limited, so plan your activities accordingly.

What’s the best way to see the islands?
Most travelers find the ferry rides and free exploration time a good balance. If you want to see more, consider extending your stay or booking extra tours independently.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 6 days before are not eligible for refunds.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?
Generally, yes, but be aware of the early start and the walking involved at ports and in towns. Confirm with your group if mobility might be an issue.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so bring some snacks or plan to dine on local specialties on each island.

To sum it up, this 2-day ferry-based tour from Athens offers a practical, well-organized way to experience Santorini’s breathtaking scenery and Mykonos’ lively charm in a short time frame. It’s perfect for travelers who want the benefits of an organized trip—including hotel stays, transportation, and ferry rides—without the hassle of planning. While the schedule is tight and the time in each destination limited, the experience provides a good introduction to Greece’s most famous islands, especially if you’re on a time-sensitive trip or eager to get a quick taste of island life.
If you’re after a relaxed, in-depth exploration, you might want to consider extending your stay or choosing a more leisurely tour. But for a convenient, scenic, and memorable adventure, this tour hits many of the right notes.