The Great Aegean Sea Adventure

Name: Two weeks in the Aegean Sea: a customized itinerary to Rhodes, Crete, Paros, and Santorini
Brand: JayWay Travel
Rating: 4.92 (16 reviews)

14 Days / 13 Nights

Rhodes, Heraklion, Paros, Santorini

from$3,825 per person

Average Guest Rating 4.9 / 5

This two-week itinerary is the perfect introduction to some of the most exciting Greek Islands in the Aegean Sea. With its Italianate architecture and vibes, Rhodes is an island filled with treasures, ideal for every type of traveler. Heraklion in Crete is a region of unique natural beauty, rich history, and excellent local cuisine. Paros offers the perfect combination between relaxation and cosmopolitan ambiance, while no special introduction is needed for your final stop, the iconic and world-renowned Santorini. Ancient ruins, natural wonders, turquoise waters, and scenic hikes, this two-week Greek Island itinerary has it all. 

One of our team members in Greece will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM card with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3-5 star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.

4 Nights in Rhodes

4 Nights in Rhodes

The island of Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands and one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece, is steeped in 3,000 years of history, with a multifaceted character that over the centuries gained the reputation of a place of spiritual calm. Inside the Medieval City of Rhodes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you will be transported back to the world of the Knights of the Order of Saint John. Let your imagination run free and the city’s atmosphere guide your steps to encountering an authentic experience inside one of Europe’s oldest medieval towns.

Day 1

Day 1 - Arrival in Rhodes

Upon your arrival a driver will be waiting for you at the airport and take you to your accommodations.

Day 2

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Rhodes

The Island of the Knights

Included in your vacation package price.

Today you'll enjoy a fantastic full day tour around the island, driving through the villages, including visits of several historical sites, such as Filerimos Acropolis, the ancient city of Kamiros and Profitis Elias Mountain. During a wine tasting learn all about, traditions, life in the island and details not mentioned in any book.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 8 hours

Day 3

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Rhodes

Visit the Acropolis of Lindos

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Above the modern village of Lindos approximately an hour drive from the town of Rhodes sits the Acropolis of Lindos, one of the most important archeological sites in Greece. Following the steep footpath from the village, you will encounter a ship carved into the rock in the 2nd century BC. At the top, the Temple of Athena Lindia, which was built in the 4th century BC, is recognizable for its Doric columns. The view from the Acropolis, set 381 feet above the sea, is breathtaking. Pro tip: don’t forget a hat and a bottle of water if visiting during the summer, as there is next to no shade! After your time of cultural exploration, head to Lindos Beach to cool down in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

Lindos Village & Kallithea Springs Half Day Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Situated at the south-eastern tip of Rhodes island, the beautiful village of Lindos lays near a fantastic sandy beach, surrounded by hills hiding the village, protecting the place from the attacks of the pirates. On top of the small white and cubic houses stands the ancient Acropolis of Athina Lindia. This half-day private tour with an expert local guide will unlock the town's secrets for you.

Activity Level : Moderate

Duration : 5 hours

Explore Lindos Private Hiking Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Start your hike in the seaside village of Vlycha, near Lindos on Rhodes’ East coast. Follow quiet trails through landscapes shaded by ancient pines and surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Reach the summit for breathtaking views, then descend toward Lindos with its stunning Acropolis in sight. Enjoy time to explore Lindos' charming streets and archaeological treasures before returning to Vlycha on a scenic route.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 6 hours

Day 4

Day 4 - Your Third Full Day in Rhodes

Valley of Butterflies

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

About 16 miles from the town of Rhodes is a natural paradise, the Valley of the Butterflies. As its name indicates, millions of butterflies inhabit this area from June until September. The perfect tranquil environment for the butterflies to reproduce, this 600-acre (2.4-square-kilometre) nature park is a wonderfully peaceful place to walk among trees, streams and waterfalls. Complete your visit in the Natural History Museum at the entrance to the valley, but do try to keep the noise down during your visit in order not to disturb the butterflies.

Day 5

Day 5 - Traveling to Heraklion by Airplane

From Rhodes to Heraklion the best option will be to take a flight on one of the low cost airlines. On your day of departure, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and take you to the airport for your flight. Suggested Flight:

Departure:

Arrival:

Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

We also offer the following excursions in Rhodes

4x4 Buggy Adventure Self-driving Group Tour

Easy3 hours

Amazing Sunset Hike Profitis Ilias Group Tour

Light5 hours

Day Cruise to Symi with a Swimming Stop at St. George Bay Group Tour

Light8 hours 30 minutes

Discover Lindos Sea Kayaking Full-day Small Group Tour

Moderate9 hours

3 Nights in Heraklion

3 Nights in Heraklion

Visitors to Heraklion, Crete's capital, are greeted by the imposing Venetian Koules Fortress, a reminder of the importance of this historic gateway to the rest of the island. A vibrant university town, Heraklion is home to some of the island's most important landmarks, such as the Knossos Palace, with its striking Bronze Age ruins, complete with colorful, stunning frescoes. Heading to the center, the bustling Old Town has many markets and cafes, along with neoclassical buildings and a 10th century church with impressed stained glass. Heraklion is a great base for exploring the island, but before you hit the road, take the time to stroll along its Venetian harbor, lined with traditional fishing boats and offering spectacular views of the Koules Fortress.

Day 5

Day 5 - Arrival in Heraklion

Upon arrival to Heraklion airport, our driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation.

Day 6

Day 6 - Your First Full Day in Heraklion

Discover Crete's Capital

Included in your vacation package price.

Bypass the concrete and head straight for the heart of Heraklion. Hit the backstreets and hidden pathways, checking out the highlights, sampling local treats, and discovering the forces that combined to make Heraklion the city it is today. This tour will help you get to know the city not just as it is now, but also as it was centuries ago, uncovering remnants of occupations by the Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians, Turks, and, yes, pirates.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 4 hours

Day 7

Day 7 - Your Second Full Day in Heraklion

Knossos Palace, Archaeological Museum and City Food Private Tour

Step Back in Time at Knossos

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

The Minoan Palace of Knossos, one of Greece's most important and spectacular archaeological sites, is located close to Heraklion. The capital of the Minoan civilization when the Greeks were barely literate, this massive palace and city has been surprisingly well preserved. Knossos lives on in the stories of Daedalus and Icarus, and Theseus and the Minotaur within the Labyrinth. We recommend taking part in a guided tour, but if you're with kids download the site's mobile app, which has a series of audio stories about the place. After visiting Knossos, stop by the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, which contains artifacts excavated from Minoan sites.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 6 hours

Day 8

Day 8 - Traveling to Paros by Ferry

Today you will be traveling from Heraklion to Paros by ferry. A driver will meet you at your accommodation in Heraklion and take you to the port. From there you will take a ferry to Paros. The journey takes around 4 hours.

We also offer the following excursions in Heraklion

Archaeological Museum and Knossos Palace Private Tour

Light4 hours

Heraklion by Catamaran Group Cruise

Easy5 hours

Heraklion by Catamaran Group Sunset Cruise

Easy5 hours

Horse Riding Group Experience

Light4 hours

3 Nights in Paros

3 Nights in Paros

Paros offers a quintessential Greek island experience. Located in the heart of the Cyclades, this fisherman's paradise historically famed for its marble now attracts landlubbers. Paros combines all the necessary elements for a memorable vacation: captivating landscapes, heavenly beaches with turquoise waters, picturesque villages with whitewashed cube houses and colorful shutters framed with beautiful bougainvillea, traditional island flair, and a distinctive character. The town of Parikia is home to the impressive church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani (the Church of a Hundred Doors), one of Greece's main pilgrimage points. Once a quaint fisherman's village, Naoussa is the place to be, offering a more laidback and affordable take on neighboring Mykonos. Naoussa houses narrow maze-like alleyways, cute shops, and a plethora of fish taverns serving fresh food. At night, the picturesque harbor, with its traditional fishing boats, offers a new side, thanks to its bustling nightlife.

Day 8

Day 8 - Arrival in Paros

Upon arrival to Paros island you'll be met in the port by our driver who will take you to your accommodation.

Day 9

Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Paros

Paros Highlights Half-Day Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

The picturesque island of Paros is rich in history, culture, and traditions, not to mention its wonderful landscapes and beaches. On this tour, your guide will help you discover some of its amazing places, including Ekatontapyliani (the "Church of a Hundred Doors"), the market street of Parikia, the cosmopolitan village of Naousa, and Lefkes, Paros' ancient capital, located amid verdant and peaceful mountains. And if you wish you can also enjoy a stop at a traditional Kafenio (café).

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 4 hours

Day 10

Day 10 - Your Second Full Day in Paros

Explore the Surroundings

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Despite being close to the island of Paros, Antiparos is less crowded but still maintains a cosmopolitan character. Antiparos beaches are sandy with crystal clear waters. Most of them are within walking distance of Chora, the island’s capital. On the southern side of Antiparos, you’ll find the most impressive sight of the island, Antiparos cave full of stalactites and stalagmites. The small island of Delos has one of the most important archaeology sites in Greece. The excavations in the island are among the most extensive in the Mediterranean. Ongoing work takes place under the direction of the Ephorate of Antiquities of Cyclades, and many of the artifacts found are on display at the Archaeological Museum of Delos and the National Archaeological Museum oof Athens.

Antiparos Island Private Tour

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

The enchanting atmosphere of Antiparos will seduce you as soon as you arrive. White houses with blue touches, narrow streets with bougainvillea and eucalyptus, and an irresistible atmosphere of optimism and good vibrations. The first visit will be a captivating Antiparos. Then your tour will continue with a stop on the beach for a swim and lunch. Naturally, you will also visit the island's main town.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 6 hours

Antiparos and Despotiko Group Cruise

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Discover the beautiful and famous island of Antiparos, and its neighbors, on a cruise you'll never forget! You'll sail to beautiful beaches, sea caves, and small islands that will make you marvel at Greece's beauty. This cruise offers a rare opportunity to get close to untamed beauty, with the help of an experienced captain who will choose the perfect route based on the day's weather.

Activity Level : Easy

Duration : 7 hours

Delos and Mykonos Private Day Trip

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Enjoy this thrilling day trip, which merges rocky Delos island (one of Greece's most important archaeological sites) with the white paradise that is Mykonos, with its sandy beaches and picturesque villages.

Activity Level : Easy

Duration : 8 hours

Delos and Mykonos Full-Day Group Cruise

Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

Discover the unique charm of Delos and Mykonos on an unforgettable excursion blending history, archaeology, and cosmopolitan allure. Departing at 9:30 AM from Naousa on the "Naxos Star," you’ll reach Delos at 10:20 AM to explore its rich historical sites by yourself, including the Sanctuary of Apollo, the Lions’ Gallery, and the Temple of Leto. After 3 hours on Delos, sail to Mykonos, renowned for its Cycladic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stroll through its narrow streets, visit the iconic windmills, and enjoy the famous "Little Venice" before heading back to Paros, arriving back around 6:20 PM.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 10 hours

Day 11

Day 11 - Traveling to Santorini by Ferry

Today you will travel from Paros to Santorini by ferry. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations and take you to the port. Then you will take the ferry to Santorini, which takes around 1 hour 45 minutes / 3 hour 20 minutes based on your preferred departure time.

We also offer the following excursions in Paros

Authentic Greek Cuisine Group Cooking Class

Easy4 hours

Byzantine Way Private Hiking Tour with Transfer

Moderate4 hours

Discover Paros Full-Day Private Tour

Light8 hours

Kaiki Cruise around Antiparos and Despotiko Group Tour

Light7 hours

3 Nights in Santorini

3 Nights in Santorini

“Intelligent adults come here and turn into infants,” Craig Walzer, owner of the Atlantis Bookstore. Santorini is every traveler's dream. The whitewashed houses and blue domed churches perched atop of soaring cliffs, the narrow cobblestone streets and unsurpassed views of crystal-clear blue waters -- these all greet you as you step foot on this fairytale land. Intertwining myth and reality, Santorini is every bit as beautiful as the countless postcards, magazine covers, and Instagram photos claim. The village of Oia is world-famous for its sunset, where thousands of spectators line up every evening to witness the magic as the sun bids farewell to the sky and the canvas lights up in fierce hues. Fortunately, the sunset can be enjoyed from much of the rest of this crescent-shaped island. Santorini is also home to Akrotiri, the Greek take on Pompeii. Inhabited since Neolithic times, this city was built up by the Minoans, a seafaring civilization that predated the ancient Greeks, only to be destroyed in the catastrophic eruption that shaped Santorini, which forms part of a massive volcanic caldera. Covered in ashes for millennia, Akrotiri is still being uncovered. We suggest visiting the neighboring center of the caldera, where you can enjoy hot springs, visit the volcanic crater, and enjoy stunning views of Santorini itself. Santorini’s unique ecology, climate and volcanic ash soil paved the way for a flourishing wine industry. Its indigenous varietals will make your stay even more enjoyable.

Day 11

Day 11 - Arrival in Santorini

Upon arrival to Santorini's port, you'll be taken to your hotel in either Fira or Oia.

Day 12

Day 12 - Your First Full Day in Santorini

Best of Santorini Private Tour

Included in your vacation package price.

This private tour of Santorini shows you around the best of the island in a day. Visit Santorini's must-see sites and landmarks while nibbling on local delicacies and sipping on Greek wine along the way. Discover the most photogenic parts of the island and create memories to last a lifetime.

Activity Level : Light

Duration : 5 hours

Day 13

Day 13 - Your Second Full Day in Santorini

Scenic Hikes from Shore to Springs

Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

If you're looking to stay active, we recommend hiking. Our favorite trail runs for 6.5 miles, between Fira and Oia, and we're sure you'll enjoy every minute of it. On the way, you'll pass through the beautiful towns of Firostefani and Imerovigli. If you're looking for more of a challenge, head from the village of Pyrgos, through Santorini's highest point (home to the Prophet Elias Holy Monastery), and on to ancient Thira. For a more rough and ready path, walk to the the Old Port, where you can hop aboard a boat tour that will take you across the caldera to the volcano on Nea Kameni. A spectacular hike up over this dormant mountain is moderately challenging but worth the effort for its breathtaking views. Back on the boat, you can circle around to the other side of the volcano, where your weary legs will relish a chance to soak in the thermal hot springs at Palia Kameni before looping back to Fira.

Activity Level : Strenuous

Duration : 5 hours

Day 14

Day 14 - Departure Day

Today a driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you straight to Santorini's airport.

We also offer the following excursions in Santorini

Anydro Group Tour

Moderate5 hours 30 minutes

Flying Dress Private Photo Shoot

Light1 hour

Mini Caldera Private Hike

Moderate3 hours

Oia’s Hidden Treasures Private Tour

Moderate4 hours

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Rhodes

4 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Rhodes Airport Transfer

Rhodes Island Full Day Private Tour

Rhodes Airport Transfer

Rhodes - Heraklion Flight (Non-Refundable)

Heraklion

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Heraklion Airport Private Transfer

Heraklion Bites and Sights Small Group Tour

Heraklion Port Transfer

Heraklion - Paros Ferry

Paros

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Parikia Port - Naoussa Private Transfer

Paros Highlights Half-Day Private Tour

Naoussa - Parikia Port Private Transfer

Paros - Santorini Ferry

Santorini

3 Nights Accommodation

Breakfast (hotels only)

Santorini Fira Port Transfer

Best of Santorini Private Tour

Santorini Fira Airport Transfer

package excludes:

Flights to and from Europe.
Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website

Benefits of Traveling with JayWay

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

A Travel Advisor who speaks your language

We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.

A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation

Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.

A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions

We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.

Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day

Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.

On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road

Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.

Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out

Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.

Glowing Reviews from Our Guests

4.9 / 5

Average of our Guest's Ratings of vacation packages including these destinations

John, Tammy & Virginia

Maryland

JayWay rocks! We have used JayWay on two separate and very different trips. They always deliver and having a fantastic local contact makes all the difference!

Year : 2024
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Paros, Santorini, Athens
Rating :

5 / 5

Joseph & Sarah

New York

I highly recommend JayWay Travel for anyone planning a trip. Their personalized service and itinerary options are top-notch. The private transfers to each location and excursions made for a stress free trip as well. We had an unforgettable honeymoon we will cherish forever.

Year : 2024
Visited : Greece
Itinerary : Athens, Santorini, Heraklion, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion, Athens
Rating :

5 / 5

Steven, Paula, William & Gloria

California

Jayway plans well and executes well!

Year : 2024
Visited : Portugal, Greece, France
Itinerary : Porto, Santorini, Paros, Athens, Paris
Rating :

5 / 5

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