Name: Romantic Santorini Vacation
Brand: Zicasso
Price: 407 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.9 (437 reviews)

Romantic Santorini Vacation - Sunset cruise

What to expect on this itinerary

There is no greater romance than the view of the sunset along the cliffs of Santorini. On this custom tailored tour you will witness the pure majesty of whitewashed walls with cobalt blue roofs, powder-sand beaches with glowing sapphire water, and the brilliance of antiquity displayed high above the cityscape. From the Parthenon to a stunning sunset cruise, luxurious secluded towns to marvelous panoramas, you will have romance and passion, desire and delights all centered around the wonderful island of Santorini and Greece.

Countries Visited

Greece

Places Visited

Athens, Mykonos, Santorini

Suggested Duration

8 Days

Day 1

Athens - Romance in Athens

Welcome to the fabulous city of Athens, Greece, where the golden hills wrap around the modern city inundated in antiquity. You are met at the airport by a private transfer that will take you along the olive groves and arid countryside into the city center. Settle into the comforts of your hotel, that is within close proximity to the remarkable ruins of the ancient city. Enjoy a fresh orange juice at the rooftop restaurant that overlooks the Acropolis where the marbled pillars of the Parthenon shimmer in the afternoon light.

Venture out to the Plaka, the oldest continuously inhabited street in Athens, where the creamy scent of olive oil drifts along the cobblestones. Families have remained in the Grecian mansions for generations, giving vibrancy to the walkway, character to the city, and a story to history. The elegance of the buildings blends with the alluring scent of roasted vegetables and crumbly feta cheese. You can almost bite into the air and catch a taste of honeyed, freshly baked baklava. From the private view from your hotel room to the charming streets that wind beneath the spotlight of the Acropolis, you have arrived in Athens ready to experience the romance of your Grecian getaway.

Transfer

Accommodation

Day 2

Athens - Open Dedication

There is a certain romance to history, the element of classic wonder that compels and fascinates people. Wake up to the gentle shimmer of sunlight rising over the Acropolis. The rich scent of fresh brewed Greek coffee rises from the lobby. After breakfast you will be met by a private guide who will take you through Athens’s history, from its contemporary past to its ancient mythology. Journey to Syntagma Square, also known as Constitution Square, where the Parliament building watches over the long expanse of trees and marbled walkways. The building itself was originally a palace built in the early 18th century for King Otto I. Marble steps climb the western side leading to the platform guards that stand attentive before the rising pink façade of the neoclassical Old Royal Palace. The sentinels are impressively tall, stoic and, on Sundays, dressed in traditional clothing inspired by the hillside villages of Crete. At the hour you can watch the small collection of military men march into the square for the changing of the guard. Their choreographed steps are in slow motion, aligned and hypnotic, as they salute the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and change slowly together, marching away.

Stand at the base of Acropolis and look up into the pillared history that rises above you. You have been staring at the famous Parthenon since arriving in Athens, as if it were an untouchable piece of ancient history, but now you will ascend onto the citadel and marvel at the history, not because of how untouchable it is, but because of how obtainable it is. Walking along the stone pathway you notice when it shifts to marble. Its sheen marks the moment that you have come to the entryway, the Propylaea. The gate continues to impress even after the loss of its pediment. The stairway leads between six grand Doric columns flanked with wings that push out over the falling stairs. Enter the plateau and find yourself amongst the tremendous Golden Age of Athens that looks over both the ancient and the modern city.

You are drawn to the Parthenon, standing on your right and built to perfection, even after thousands of years. Construction began in 447 BC and was completed around 438 BC, and it continues to sing of the city-state’s prestige, power, and dedication to the goddess Athena. The decorated metopes reveal celebrated myths and histories carved into the stone, from Olympians Battling Giants to Theseus Fighting Centaurs. The passion of history emanates from the hilltop as reminder of the grandeur of civilization and the splendor of possibility.

Accommodation

Breakfast

Day 3

Spa Pools and Sparkling Sands

The morning washes over the city and you are once again awakened by the mesmerizing scent of freshly brewed Greek coffee. After breakfast you will have a private transfer to the airport and be whisked off to the stunning island of Mykonos. The whitewashed buildings, from the elegance of Mykonos Town to the independent churches, are perfect examples of Cycladic architecture that helps keep the interiors warm in the winter and cool in the summer. The island is known for its diverse range of magnificent beaches, whether for celebrated community or romantic seclusion.

Another private transfer will have you at your accommodation. From your room you can see the water of the Aegean lapping at the shores of Platis Yialos beach, shifting in coloration three shades of effervescent blue. The pool sits beneath the vibrant restaurant, raised above the local homes, and shimmering in the clear daylight. The in-house spa offers you a gentle and soothing welcome. Experience the Thalassotherapy mineral pools, a sensual way for couples to enjoy a tranquil experience together.

Venture into Mykonos Town in the evening where the labyrinthine streets offer plenty of space to wander and lovely shops to explore beneath the seclusion of dangling bougainvillea. The splendor of Little Venice rises just above the shoreline, filled with a small stretch of colorful homes located above the shops that date back to the medieval times. Whether strolling hand in hand through the luxurious shops or sitting within the candlelight allure local restaurants surrounded by the decadent aromas of grilled octopus or basil foam, you will melt into the beauty of the town and the enchantment of Mykonos with ease and delight.

Transfer

Accommodation

Breakfast

Day 4

Mykonos - Overlooking Luxury

The morning rises over the horizon and brings the colors of the Aegean to life. The waves brush against the beach outside of your window. The fishing boats weigh anchor, their vibrant hues help them be seen in the distance and when returning with a fresh catch for the day. Today is at your whim and leisure to experience the island as you prefer. Whether that means relishing in the splendor of a romantic beachside rest or exploring the sensational ruins of Delos just off of the coast of Mykonos; whatever you prefer, you can be certain that it will be the best way to spend the day.

Relaxing along the calm waters at the beach just outside of your hotel will give you a moment of reprieve from the outside world. A brief walk will have you on Platis Yialos beach, where the restaurants line the boardwalk and the water rests at the edges of the sand. Settle beneath an umbrella on a sunbed with a view of the open water. The landscape wraps wide around the sea creating a tiny horseshoe. The air is warm, the sand is hot, and you can order a sweet drink that helps cool down the day. When you step into the water you are covered in crystal clear refreshment wrapping around your skin. There is romance on the beach, within the water, along the sand, and beneath the umbrella’s shade.

Accommodation

Breakfast

Day 5

Santorini - Crescent Cliffs

The new day arrives and brings with it the fabulous light bouncing off of the reflective water. After breakfast, you will have a private transfer to the marina where you will board a hydrofoil and cruise your way to Santorini. The most celebrated island curls in a crescent shape around the vibrant caldera. The cliffs are tall over the sapphire water as you disembark the boat. In the short distance, you can see the rising peak of the volcano that has created and shaped Santorini’s gorgeous landscapes over time.

A semi-private transfer will greet you at the harbor and take you to the sensual seclusion of your hotel. The architecture is no less than picture-perfect: whitewashed walls with cobalt blue roofs that decorate the precipice; it’s almost like you have stepped into a painting. Your luxurious room gives you an open vista to the lush water below, the edges of the volcano’s rim, all the way to the horizon. Canaves, the view, and the soft trickle of water from the infinity pool add up to paradise.

Transfer

Accommodation

Breakfast

Day 6

Santorini - Between Elegant Villages

The sunlight washes over the island bringing a warm glow to the white buildings. The lavishness of the day begins with breakfast. Enjoy your morning meal in the comfortable privacy of your room or within the open panorama by the pool. Fresh pastries, from chocolate croissants to cheese Danishes, give a buttery, flaky perfume to the air. The white water pushes against the rocky cliff below. There is an enjoyable decadence to the morning, where the quiet view enraptures you, the company captivates you, and the day is yours to experience the majesty of the island.

For an incredible day filled with unforgettable vistas and unbeatable sights, you can journey along the trail that runs between Oia and Fira. Although the path stretches around six-miles, there are plenty of places to rest, such as in the villages of Imerovigli and Firostefani, along with a plethora of moments to look out over the precipice and enjoy the expanse of natural Grecian landscape. You could even start in Santorini’s capital, Fira, and make your way back to the luxuries of Oia. Once you step onto the trail you will leave behind the cobblestone roads and bustling visitors of Fira. Step out onto an empty trail where you can see the Aegean glow a spectacular azure and be mesmerized by the splendor of Santorini. The breeze carries the earthy scent from the rocky terrain. The water splashes below bringing the sound of separated water to your ears. Scattered couples pass you along the way making it feel like a private road for you to stroll hand in hand along the elegant view created just for you.

Accommodation

Breakfast

Day 7

Santorini - Sailing into Sunset

The morning is brought in with a special blend of relaxation and delicacy, giving you another delicious taste enjoyed within your comfortable room or beside the soothing sounds of the trickling pool. No matter how much time you watch the vista it seems to only get better. The morning is yours to submit into the pleasures of your hotel and of Oia, readying yourself for the coming adventure of a sunset cruise that will take you one step beyond viewing the panorama by taking you into it.

In the early afternoon you will be picked up by a semi-private transfer and taken to Vlihada Marina where a catamaran waits for your arrival. Onboard the spacious and luxurious sailboat, the enticing scent of marinating vegetables already peaks your interest. The boat weighs anchor and you carry out to sea, passing the lighthouse on the southern edge of the island. You can see the opulent architecture on the cliff’s edges as you make your way into the caldera. The mist is cool and the wind is gentle. A short stop at the White Beach shows you the opalescent shimmer of its limestone cliffs.

The sand on the beach is actually a glittering black due to the island’s volcanic soil. Jump into the cool, clear water where you can touch the sea floor, or just luxuriate on the boat as you continue onward. Dinner is served in a remote bay, where the earlier aromas grace the table in a stunning Greek salad; marinated steak, and grilled seafood, all freshly made while the boat was sailing through the gorgeous sea. When the catamaran starts to make its way back to shore the sun slowly lowers beyond the horizon. A magnificent orange covers the sky like a curtain eventually bringing in the starry night.

Cruise

Accommodation

Breakfast

Day 8

Santorini - Endless Romance

There is a peaceful calm to your final morning on Santorini as a pink hue lingers on the white buildings. After breakfast you will have a semi-private transfer to the airport where you will watch the crescent island disappear into the vast blue of the Aegean as you begin your trip home. Your time in Santorini has been nothing less than romantic and even bordering perfection, where the hotel was lavish, the villages were charming, and the views were exquisite. Your vacation on Santorini may be ending but you can always return for another brilliant romantic getaway.

Consider adding on to this 8-day customized tour. Zicasso offers many Greece honeymoon packages and you can read Greece traveler reviews to see what travelers had to say about their trips.

Transfer

Breakfast

Trip Highlights

Discover the unforgettable antiquity of Athens, including the renowned Parthenon
Experience the famous beaches of Mykonos that are likened to perfection
Traverse the charming streets of Mykonos Town, built like a labyrinth and filled with hidden niches to explore
Relish the celebrated beauty of Santorini and its delightful villages
Journey around Santorini’s caldera on a luxurious sunset cruise
Be mesmerized by Santorini’s dazzling panorama

Detailed Description

What could be more romantic than spending your days along the famous cliffs of Santorini on this 8-day Greece vacation that will have you luxuriating in stylish comfort with the one you love. From the beaches of Mykonos to the ages of Athens, the reflective architecture of Santorini to its marvelous sunsets, there is no better way to experience the splendor of Greece than in passionate romance where the landscape speaks volumes, the history borders mythology, and all you have to do is enjoy it.

Arrive in Athens, Greece to begin your passionate getaway. The modern city wraps around the antique beauty of the Acropolis that was once the city-state’s highest point. The charm of the city captivates you immediately, draped within the oldest continuously inhabited neighborhood along the Plaka. You will have a half-day tour through Athenian history that has helped shape modern Greece; it feels like the farther into history you travel the more the Parthenon comes to enthusiastic life. Make your way to Mykonos where the island’s grandeur, you will soon find, barely measures its actual greatness.

The island is immediately warm and friendly, from the sandy beaches to the jovial people. You can settle into the powdery sand or stroll through the secluded alcoves of Mykonos Town where flowers and vines brush over the buildings. You can relax in the spa or venture to the wondrous island of Delos to visit the birthplace of gods before making your way to the breathtaking island of Santorini. The towering cliffs and quintessential architecture bring you to enchantment. You can fall in love with the view over the water and the rolling landscapes, the charming villages and ancient history. The days are yours to delight in, in any way you please whether venturing along the trail between Fira and Oia or visiting the ancient city of Akrotiri. Your final day will be spent cruising through the remarkable caldera until the sunset lights up the horizon. You will depart for home knowing that your time in Greece and Santorini wasn’t only romantic but spellbinding.

Starting Price

$3,300 per person (excluding international flights)

Your Zicasso trip is fully customizable, and this sample itinerary is a starting place for your travel plans. Actual costs are dynamic, and your selection of accommodations and activities, your season of travel, and other such variables will bring this budget guideline up or down. Throughout your planning experience with your Zicasso specialist, your itinerary is designed around your budget. You can book your trip when you are satisfied with every detail. Planning your trip with a Zicasso travel specialist is a free service.

What's Included

Accommodations
In-country transportation
Some or all activities and tours
Expert trip planning
24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

4.9

Verified Traveler Reviews

Based on 453 reviews

Greece Anniversary Vacation Review: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Catamaran Cruise, Cooking Class, Wine Tasting, Hiking, Local Cuisine, 2-Week Trip

We recently returned from an incredible two-week Coral Anniversary trip to Greece and it exceeded every expectation. From the ancient wonders of Athens to the whitewashed villages of Mykonos, the dramatic cliffs of Santorini, and the authentic traditions of Crete, every stop offered something unique and unforgettable. Most importantly, the people we met along the way transformed a beautiful vacation into a truly special experience. The journey took us through Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete.

Outstanding Planning and Service

Every transfer, hotel, tour, ferry, flight, restaurant reservation, and activity was flawlessly coordinated by Zicasso's travel partner. The itinerary struck a perfect balance between guided experiences and personal exploration, allowing us to enjoy Greece without ever worrying about logistics.

Athens – History, Culture, and Exceptional Hospitality

Our stay at our hotel in Athens gave us incredible Acropolis views and a perfect base for exploring the city. Walking through the Acropolis with our guide and standing before the Parthenon was breathtaking. The Acropolis Museum and city highlights tour helped bring thousands of years of history to life.

One of the highlights of our anniversary celebration was dinner at a restaurant atop Lycabettus Hill. Watching the sun set behind the Acropolis while enjoying excellent Greek cuisine and wine was a magical experience and one we'll never forget.

We would especially like to recognize our driver in Athens. He was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in making our trip memorable. During our day exploring the Argolis region, Epidaurus, Mycenae, and the Nemea wine country, he provided insights that helped us better appreciate the history and culture of Greece.

What truly distinguished our driver was his attention to detail. While we were traveling along the Athenian Riviera toward Cape Sounion and the Temple of Poseidon, he realized we were hoping for a true seaside lunch experience. Without being asked, he contacted the travel company and coordinated everything to make a last-minute adjustment so we could enjoy lunch by the sea. That thoughtful gesture perfectly reflects the level of service he provided throughout our stay. It turned a wonderful day into one of our favorite memories of Athens.

Mykonos – Relaxation and the Beauty of the Aegean

Mykonos provided the perfect contrast to the historical focus of Athens. Staying at our hotel in Mykonos overlooking the Aegean Sea allowed us to fully appreciate the island's beauty.

We spent time exploring the charming streets of Mykonos Town, admiring the famous windmills, and enjoying the relaxed island atmosphere. A major highlight was our private catamaran cruise to Delos and Rhenia. Sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean while visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Delos gave us a fascinating glimpse into one of the ancient world's most important religious centers. The secluded waters around Rhenia were stunning and provided some of the most beautiful scenery of our trip.

Santorini – Spectacular Views and Unforgettable Sunsets

Santorini is every bit as beautiful as the photographs suggest and somehow even more impressive in person. Our stay in Oia overlooking the caldera was breathtaking. Whether enjoying breakfast with panoramic views or simply walking through the village, every moment felt special.

The wine-tasting experiences at a winery were outstanding. Sampling the island's distinctive Assyrtiko wines while learning about Santorini's unique volcanic terroir gave us a new appreciation for Greek winemaking. The carefully paired food-and-wine experiences were among the culinary highlights of the entire trip.

Our private sunset catamaran cruise around the caldera, White Beach, Red Beach, Black Beach, hot springs, and the volcano was another unforgettable experience. Watching the sunset from the water while enjoying dinner and local wine created one of the most memorable evenings of our anniversary trip.

Crete – The Heart of Greece

As amazing as Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini were, Crete became our favorite part of the journey.

Our quick stop at Knossos Palace and the historic city of Rethymnon allowed us to learn about the Minoan civilization and experience the rich blend of Venetian and Ottoman influences that define the island. The old Venetian harbor in Chania was equally impressive and provided a spectacular setting for our stay.

Samaria Gorge

One of the most rewarding experiences of our entire trip was hiking the Samaria Gorge. Covering 11 miles through one of Europe's most spectacular natural settings was challenging and incredibly rewarding. The dramatic cliffs, pristine landscape, and sheer scale of the gorge were unlike anything we had experienced before.

A tremendous part of that experience was our guide. Our guide brought expertise, enthusiasm, and a genuine passion for Crete that elevated the hike far beyond a typical excursion. His knowledge of the region, local culture, and natural environment made every step more meaningful.

Kissamos Villages and Cooking Class

Our final full day in Crete may have been the most authentic and memorable day of the entire trip.

The tour of the traditional villages of Kissamos provided a fascinating look at everyday Cretan life. Learning about olive oil production, tasting regional products, and experiencing rural villages gave us a perspective on Crete that most visitors never see.

The cooking class that followed was exceptional. Our host created an atmosphere that felt less like a tour and more like spending a day with friends. Together with his mother, he shared not only recipes, but the stories, traditions, and values that make Cretan culture so special.

For anyone traveling to Crete, we cannot recommend this tour company highly enough. Their commitment to authentic local experiences is truly outstanding.

This trip exceeded our expectations in every possible way. We experienced world-famous historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, incredible food and wine, beautiful hotels, and unforgettable adventures. Yet what we will remember most are the people who made the experience so special.

We returned home with wonderful memories, a deeper appreciation for Greek culture, and gratitude for everyone who helped make our anniversary celebration the trip of a lifetime.

Greece Tour Review: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Acropolis, Food Tour, Catamaran Cruise, 1 Week

We had a very good trip to Greece with Zicasso's travel specialist. We traveled to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini with a group of six (three couples). They did a good job of finding nice and convenient hotels in each location, and we were also pleased with the Acropolis tour, food tours, and catamaran trip we took during the week.

Greece Trip Review: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, 12 Nights

I originally reached out to Zicasso to find a travel agent to handle our two-week trip to Greece. Zicasso provided me with three travel company options and, after speaking with each, I decided to work with this travel company. The travel specialist turned out to be the best decision I could have made.

Our travel specialist and the travel company team were absolutely amazing and thorough. We planned the trip for me, my wife, brother, and sister-in-law. Every step of the planning process was informative and the travel specialist gave us her best advice leading up to the trip. She answered many of our questions and researched the things we wanted to do while in Greece.

Once we were on the trip, we communicated almost daily with the travel specialist and she remained readily available. She was extremely responsive. It was always a relief during transfer pick-ups to see the travel company’s signs, so we knew who to connect with.

Our two-week Greece adventure through Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, and Crete was perfect, and we could tell that the work the travel specialist and the team put in ensured that success. This was a vacation dream of a lifetime, thanks to the travel specialist, the travel company, and Zicasso.

Kudos to Zicasso for recommending the travel company at the beginning and I would highly recommend Zicasso and our travel company to anyone interested in traveling to Greece.

Gratitude and appreciation to all for a trip we will never forget!!!!

Greece Tour Review: Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, History, Culture, Tradition, Local Cuisine, Shopping, 8 Nights

If you're considering a trip to Greece, look no further than Zicasso. Our travel expert planned an unforgettable journey for our family; Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, and every detail was executed with care, expertise, and passion.

From the moment we arrived in Athens, we were immersed in the country’s warm hospitality. Our agent made sure we had the perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation. The historical sites in Athens, like the Acropolis and the ancient Agora, were must-sees.

Mykonos is vibrant yet relaxed. The beaches were beautiful. Every meal on this trip was a highlight. Fresh seafood, local cheeses, olive oil, and delicious pastries—each bite told a story of Greece’s deep culinary heritage.

In Santorini, we were captivated by the island’s charm—whitewashed buildings, breathtaking sunsets, and the deep blue Aegean Sea. We visited traditional villages, giving us a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions that are still very much alive.

Throughout the trip, what stood out most—beyond the stunning landscapes and ancient history—was the friendliness of the Greek people. Their warmth and pride in their culture made every moment feel welcoming and genuine.

Our agent didn’t just plan a vacation—he created an experience rooted in history, tradition, and hospitality. I can’t recommend him and Zicasso highly enough.

Greece Tour Review: Athens, Peloponnese, Santorini, Messinia, Voidokilia, Pylos, Methoni, Monemvasia, Nafplio, Mystras Castle, Polylimnio Waterfalls, Elafonisos, Olive Oil Tasting, Hiking, 10 Nights

We had a wonderful and memorable trip to Greece, thanks to the Zicasso travel specialist’s excellent planning. In addition to exploring Athens, she designed a seamless road trip across the Peloponnese Peninsula that took us to beautiful beaches and ancient castles in Messinia, Voidokilia, Pylos, Methoni, Monemvasia, and Nafplio. She also provided clear directions and recommended great stops to break up our drives, including Mystras Castle and the beautiful Polylimnio Waterfalls.

Our hotel accommodations were excellent throughout the trip and we really enjoyed our stay in beautiful Santorini. We also appreciated her restaurant recommendations, which saved us from having to search for places to eat and always led us to great food. She stayed in touch via WhatsApp the entire time, checking in on us and answering our questions whenever they came up. There is so much to see in Greece that we’ll definitely need to go back for another visit.

Greece Tour Review: Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Horseback Riding, Food Tours, 10 Days

We had a wonderful time in Greece. We spent 10 days there and went to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. The accommodations were great and the planned excursions were fantastic. The weather was perfect.

Zicasso in the News

Romantic Santorini Vacation

What to expect on this itinerary

Countries Visited

Places Visited

Suggested Duration

Customizable Itinerary

Athens - Romance in Athens

Athens - Open Dedication

Spa Pools and Sparkling Sands

Mykonos - Overlooking Luxury

Santorini - Crescent Cliffs

Santorini - Between Elegant Villages

Santorini - Sailing into Sunset

Santorini - Endless Romance

Trip Highlights

Detailed Description

Starting Price

What's Included

Verified Traveler Reviews

Customizable Itinerary

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