4 Day Private Tour, Crete, Santorini, Mykonos, Delos from Athens

Imagine spending four days weaving through some of Greece’s most iconic islands, without the hassle of booking ferries, flights, or hotels. This private tour, costing around $1,778 per person, takes you from Athens to Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos—each with their own special charm. It’s a package designed to maximize your experience while minimizing the stress of logistics. From the ancient ruins of Knossos in Crete to the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos, this trip promises a blend of history, stunning scenery, and lively culture.

Two things we particularly appreciate about this experience are the thoughtfully organized private transport and transfers — no waiting around for strangers or confusing schedules — and the option to upgrade with sightseeing cruises, adding a splash of adventure to the itinerary. However, one consideration is that the trip relies heavily on ferry travel, which can sometimes mean long waits or delays, particularly if weather is uncooperative.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see multiple Greek islands in a short timeframe without the stress of planning every detail themselves. It suits those who appreciate guided insights, comfortable transport, and the flexibility to choose activities like a sunset cruise or wine tasting. If you’re after a well-organized, authentic, and immersive taste of Greece, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• All-inclusive logistics: Flights, ferries, transfers, and accommodations are arranged, saving you time and effort.
• Flexibility: Optional cruises and sightseeing upgrades allow customization.
• Cultural highlights: Visit historic sites like Knossos and enjoy authentic experiences like olive oil tastings and local food.
• Travel pace: Designed for comfort, with private transportation and a balance of guided and free time.
• Cost-value: While around $1,778, the convenience and curated experience often outweigh the cost for many travelers.
• Suitability: Best for those who want a structured but flexible overview of Greece’s islands, with minimal hassle.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Crete’s Ancient and Authentic Flavors

Your adventure begins early with a pickup from your Athens hotel, then a short domestic flight to Heraklion, Crete. We appreciate the smooth coordination here — your driver will take care of the transfer, letting you relax after the flight. Once on Crete, your first stop is the Koronekes Olive Mill for an olive oil tasting. This isn’t just a quick sample; you’ll learn about how olives are cultivated on land with hundreds of ancient trees, some dating back to the 1900s. The staff guides you through the process, ending with a tasting of three different oils paired with local delicacies, including balsamic vinegar. It’s a flavorful introduction to Crete’s land and traditions.

Next, you’ll explore the Palace of Knossos, a site dating back to around 2000 BC. The ruins reveal the grandeur of Minoan civilization, with large palace buildings, intricate workshops, and tombs. As one reviewer noted, this stop provides a “unique opportunity to learn about the rich lifestyle” of ancient Crete, making it a highlight for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Day 2: Santorini’s Volcanic Drama and Sunset Magic

After breakfast, your private driver will whisk you to Athinios Port, where you board a ferry to Santorini. The crossing offers scenic views of the Aegean and volcanic islands, giving you a taste of Greece’s maritime charm. Upon arrival, your driver transfers you to your hotel. You’re then free to explore at your own pace, which means you can soak in the famous caldera views, stroll through charming villages, or just relax with a local coffee.

For those craving more, an optional cruise to Palea Kameni is available. This six-hour adventure takes you to volcanic hot springs—perfect for a relaxing soak—and allows you to swim in the thermal waters. The cruise includes sights like Aspronisi, the lighthouse, Akrotiri, and Indian Rock, culminating in the spectacular sunset in Oia. Travelers rave about this experience, describing it as a “delightful onboard BBQ” and a truly “magical sunset view” that makes the trip unforgettable.

Day 3: The Vibrant Charm of Mykonos

From Santorini, you’ll take a ferry to Mykonos, known for its lively atmosphere, stunning beaches, and picturesque streets. Your driver will meet you at the port, and you’ll have time to wander through Little Venice and the maze of narrow alleyways in Matogiania. Many reviews praise the ease of the transfers, describing them as “timely and smooth,” which allows you to focus on soaking in the sights or enjoying the vibrant energy of the island.

Optional upgrades include a wine, olive oil, and food tasting tour, often paired with live music. One reviewer mentioned exploring a 12-acre vineyard and tasting different varieties of grapes, olives, and local jams—an authentic way to connect with Greek culinary traditions. It’s these small, local experiences that add depth to the trip and make it more than just sightseeing.

Day 4: Return to Athens via Piraeus Port

On your final day, you’ll transfer from your hotel to the ferry port, then head back to Piraeus in Athens. The journey offers scenic views once more, and upon arrival, your driver will take you to your Athens hotel. This smooth finale ensures you leave feeling satisfied and relaxed, ready to process all the memories.

What We Love About This Tour

The seamless organization of flights, ferries, and transfers is a standout feature. For travelers like us who dislike the hassle of booking multiple tickets and coordinating schedules, this means you can focus entirely on enjoying each destination. The private transport ensures comfort and flexibility, so you’re not stuck waiting for large groups or following a rigid timetable.

The option to upgrade with cruises and tastings adds variety and luxury. The cruise around Santorini’s volcanic islands, especially with the sunset in Oia, is consistently praised as a “magical and unforgettable” experience. The food and wine tastings, particularly in Mykonos, give you a taste of Greece’s authentic flavors, often with a friendly local guide who’s eager to share stories.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

Long ferry rides are a significant part of the experience, and for some, that might mean waiting or delays. As one review pointed out, “a lot of time was wasted traveling by ferry instead of flying,” which could be frustrating for travelers who prefer faster transport. Also, the tour is quite packed, meaning you’ll need to be flexible with timing, especially if you choose the optional activities.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is best suited to travelers who want a rundown of Greece’s top islands without the stress of planning every detail. It’s ideal if you value guided insights, private transportation, and optional extras like cruises and tastings. Perfect for first-timers or those short on time, who want to see key sights and enjoy authentic experiences.

However, if you’re a slow traveler or prefer to explore at your own pace, you might find the schedule a bit tight. Also, those who dislike ferry travel might want to consider additional options or be prepared for some transit time.

The Sum Up

This 4-day private Greek island tour offers a smart, enjoyable way to see Crete, Santorini, and Mykonos, combining history, scenery, and local flavors. The convenience of pre-arranged flights, ferries, and transfers means you spend less time worrying about logistics and more time soaking up Greece’s vibrant culture. The optional cruises and tastings add extra layers of enjoyment, especially for those who love a good scenic sunset or a glass of local wine.

While ferry rides can be long and schedules tight, the overall experience provides a rich, authentic taste of Greece’s islands, perfect for first-timers or those eager to pack a lot into a short trip. It’s best for travelers who appreciate guided comfort, small-group flexibility, and the chance to savor local foods and sights without the headache of planning every detail themselves.

If you’re after a well-organized, immersive, and scenic introduction to Greece’s islands, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, generally most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the ferry rides and walking involved at some stops, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate travel.

Are flights included in the price?
Yes, the tour includes a domestic flight from Athens to Heraklion, Crete, as part of the package.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the core itinerary is set, optional activities like cruises and food tastings can be added, giving you some flexibility.

What type of accommodations are provided?
You can upgrade to 3- or 4-star hotels based on your preferences and budget. Hotel details are shared a week before your trip.

Is transportation private or shared?
All transfers, including airport pickups and port transfers, are private, ensuring comfort and efficiency.

Do I need to book early?
Yes, most trips are booked around 78 days in advance, especially for the popular summer months.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable shoes for walking, some cash for tips and local purchases, and a camera to capture the stunning views.