From Athens: 2-Day Santorini and Mykonos Trip

Experience the Best of the Greek Islands in Just Two Days

If you’re dreaming of sweeping caldera views, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant island life, this 2-day tour from Athens packs a lot into a compact itinerary. For just $559 per person, you get to cruise through the Aegean Sea, visit two of Greece’s most famous islands—Santorini and Mykonos—and enjoy the convenience of all transportation and accommodations arranged for you. Guided by friendly, professional drivers, you’ll find yourself immersed in iconic scenery, delicious local wines, and lively beachside towns, all without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how smoothly it combines travel, sightseeing, and free time, giving you a taste of island life without feeling rushed. We loved the short ferry crossings, which kept the journey breezy, and the hotel stay in Santorini that provided a comfortable base for exploring. Also, the free time allotted in both Santorini and Mykonos means you can soak up the atmosphere, snap photos, or simply relax, which makes the experience feel more personal and less like a rushed group tour.

One thing to keep in mind is that, due to the packed schedule, this trip might not suit travelers looking for deep dives into each island’s history or culture. If you prefer a slower pace with more time at each site, this tour might feel a bit hurried. Still, for first-timers eager to see the essentials and enjoy some authentic Greek island vibes, it’s an excellent option.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a convenient snapshot of Santorini and Mykonos, especially if you’re short on time but don’t want to miss the iconic sights, beaches, and lively atmosphere. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with ferry rides, enjoy guided logistics, and appreciate having accommodations and transportation taken care of.

Key Points

• Convenient package with hotel pickup, ferry tickets, and accommodations included
• Scenic ferry rides across the Aegean Sea, offering great views and a true sense of island hopping
• Free time in Santorini and Mykonos for personal exploration, photos, and relaxing
• Iconic sights like Santorini’s caldera, whitehouses, and blue-domed chapels, plus Mykonos’s beaches and shopping
• Comfortable accommodations in Santorini (3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast)
• Efficient itinerary that balances sightseeing with free time, ideal for first-time visitors

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting from Athens, the tour begins with a complimentary pickup from your hotel or designated central Athens location. From there, a comfortable drive takes you to the port of Rafina, where your adventure truly begins. The journey involves about an hour on a coach followed by the anticipation of crossing the Aegean on a 6-hour ferry. This leg stands out as one of the most enjoyable parts of the trip, giving you a chance to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and take in views of Greece’s beautiful islands.

The ferry approaches Santorini’s imposing caldera, a sight that immediately leaves an impression. As your boat nears the port of Ormos Athinios, the iconic cliffs, with their contrast of stark volcanic rock and pastel-colored buildings, come into focus. A driver is waiting with your name clearly visible—a small but crucial detail that makes all the difference in reducing stress after a long journey.

Once in Santorini, you’re transferred to a hotel where you’ll stay overnight. The included accommodation, based on availability, is a 3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast, giving you a comfortable base to explore the island at your own pace. The evening is free for you to stroll the streets of Santorini’s charming towns, watch the sunset over the caldera, or enjoy a relaxed dinner featuring local flavors.

The next morning, you’ll be driven back to the port of Santorini to catch the ferry to Mykonos. The 2.5-hour cruise is another chance to enjoy the sea, and in no time, you’ll arrive at Mykonos’s New Port. From there, a short drive deposits you in the heart of Mykonos Town, famous for its whitewashed buildings, narrow winding streets, and lively atmosphere.

Here, you’ll have around five hours to explore. Many travelers love to wander through the bustling Matoyanni neighborhood, where designer shops and local boutiques sit side by side. The town’s waterfront tavernas are perfect for sampling fresh seafood and enjoying the relaxed island vibe. Reviewers often highlight the delicious local food and tapas-style dishes, which add flavor to the experience. One traveler noted, “In Santorini, Kimberly was right in front of the arrival area… while the driver, Basiles readily carried my handcarried luggage,” showing the tour’s emphasis on attentive service.

In the late afternoon, you’ll depart from Mykonos via ferry back to Rafina, then transfer by coach to Athens. The entire experience emphasizes ease and efficiency, making it ideal for travelers who want the highlights without the fuss.

Transportation and Schedule

The logistics are straightforward but well-planned. Early morning pickups ensure you’re on your way promptly, and the ferry schedule allows for smooth transitions between islands. The ferry crossings are the backbone of this trip, allowing scenic views and a true sense of island-hopping. The coach rides between ports and hotels are kept comfortable, typically lasting less than an hour, which prevents fatigue.

The itinerary is quite full—expect a roughly 17 hours in Santorini and about 5 hours in Mykonos—so it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with a busy schedule. However, the free time built into the trip is enough for a quick walk, a photo, or a relaxed meal without feeling overly rushed.

What We Loved

One of the biggest highlights for us was how well the tour balances guided logistics with personal exploration. The transportation runs smoothly, and the process of moving from ferry to hotel to sightseeing is seamless. As one review pointed out, “I am impressed with the pick up and transport arrangements in both Santorini and Athens side. It made me feel secured and safe,” which is reassuring for first-time visitors.

Another feature we appreciated was the scenic ferry rides. Not only do these crossings save time, but they also provide stunning views of the islands’ coastlines and the open sea—perfect for taking photos or simply soaking in the natural beauty. The hotel in Santorini offers a restful place to unwind after a full day of sightseeing, an important perk for balancing the busy schedule.

The local food and wines are also worth mentioning. While meals are not included, many travelers find the opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood and local wines from volcanic grapes to be a real treat. The reviews highlight how enjoyable the food scene is, adding to the authentic experience.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

The main drawback for some travelers might be the fast pace. With only about 17 hours in Santorini and 5 hours in Mykonos, you won’t have time to delve deeply into each island’s historical sites or hidden corners. If you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth exploration, this trip might feel rushed.

Plus, ferry schedules can be subject to weather conditions, which could cause delays or changes in timing. Travelers should be prepared for the possibility of a slightly different schedule and plan accordingly.

Finally, meals are not included, so you’ll want to budget extra for food and drinks. While this allows flexibility, it also means that your experience of local cuisine depends on your choices during free time.

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Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience is best for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Santorini and Mykonos—perfect if you’re short on time but eager to see the iconic sights, beaches, and lively towns. It’s well-suited for first-time visitors who appreciate organized logistics and guided transfers. If you enjoy scenic ferry rides and want to avoid the hassle of booking every detail independently, this tour offers great value and convenience.

Those with a sense of adventure and a desire to experience authentic island vibes—from sunsets in Santorini to beach bars in Mykonos—will find plenty to enjoy. Keep in mind, though, that if your ideal vacation involves slow sightseeing or exploring off the beaten path, this tour might feel a bit hurried.

FAQs

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup from central Athens hotels and transportation back to your hotel after returning from the islands.

Are ferry tickets included?
Absolutely. The package covers ferry tickets for all crossings, including Rafina to Santorini, Santorini to Mykonos, and Mykonos back to Rafina.

How much free time is there in Santorini and Mykonos?
You’ll have plenty of free time—about 17 hours in Santorini for sightseeing and relaxation, and around 5 hours in Mykonos to explore the town, shop, or enjoy a meal.

Is accommodations in Santorini included?
Yes, there is a hotel stay in Santorini, typically a 3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast, based on availability.

Can I customize or extend my stay?
While the tour is quite structured, you might find options to stay longer on your own or arrange extra activities, but those are not included in this package.

Is this suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but the itinerary involves ferry rides and some walking in towns, so it’s best to check specific accessibility needs with the provider.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so you’ll want to budget for food during your free time in Santorini and Mykonos.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, and beachwear are recommended for enjoying the sightseeing and beaches.

In the end, this 2-day Athens-based trip to Santorini and Mykonos offers a well-organized way to see the highlights of Greece’s most famous islands. It balances comfort and adventure, providing enough free time for personal exploration while taking care of the logistics. If you’re after the quintessential Greek island experience in a short timeframe, this tour delivers a memorable taste of the Cyclades without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: