Greek Island Hopping Adventure in the Cyclades
Bounce your way from Athens to the Aegean, lapping up the Cyclades islands of Tinos, Naxos and Koufonisia
What's Included?
Activities & Certified Guides
All itinerary activities with expert, local, English–speaking guidesHotel
7 nights in boutique hotelsMeals
All breakfasts, 1 lunch, 2 dinnersTransfers
Airport transfers, ferry journeys between the islands and everything in betweenEquipment
All your gear for kayaking and snorkellingSmall Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 14 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
…
What's it like?
Dodge the crowds on these quieter islands, exploring to find ancient villages, serene swim spots, local tavernas and perfect sunsets
Hike to the summit of legendary Mount Zas, the highest point of the Cyclades archipelago, for an epic 360° panorama
Kayak the Athenian Riviera at sunset, snorkel the clear Aegean Sea and take a boat trip to the dreamy Koufonisia Islands
Soak up island life – sipping on frappes, tucking into delicious Greek dishes and indulging in an organic wine-tasting
Key Information
Day 1
Set out for some sunset sea kayaking
Kayaking
Meet up with your host at Athens International Airport and head downtown to settle into your hotel in a lively part of Athens. Have some free time to wander around Athens and see the sights before meeting up with your fellow adventures to head to Athens' coastline on the Saronic Gulf. Hop in a kayak and paddle along the calm waters at sunset, along what is known as the Athenian Riviera – a side of Athens often missed by visitors. Afterwards, gather for a classic Greek feast at a local taverna and have a chat about the adventures ahead.
Day 2
To the Cyclades!
Hiking
Head to the port in the morning and hop on a ferry to the magical island of Tinos, an enchanting combination of traditional Greek villages, rugged coastlines and sandy beaches lapped by the azure waters of the Aegean Sea. Settle into your hotel and then head out for a hike to explore the island, from Chora to the village of Ktikados, with its whitewashed houses nestled among rolling hills. Continue on to the coastal village of Kionia for a refreshing swim in the warm clear waters, before heading back to your base. Head out in search of dinner at a local taverna – your guide will be full of suggestions for the best spots.
Day 3
Hike across Tinos
Hiking
After your first taste of hiking yesterday you'll set off for a longer stomp across the island today, starting in the quaint village of Falatados. As you traverse the island's interior – filled with history and natural beauty, flanked by blue ocean in the distance – you'll pass by the enigmatic ruins of Eksomvourgo and the distinctive rock formations of Volakas. After stopping in a village for a leisurely lunch, you'll then hike on to the finish line at the beautiful Agapi village, where you can enjoy a sundowner before heading back for a well-earned dinner and a good night's rest.
Day 4
Hop over to Naxos
Hiking
Bid farewell to Tinos as you hop over to your next Greek island, boarding the ferry to Naxos – the largest island in the Cyclades archipelago. Waste no time as you start to explore the island on foot, hiking to the imposing Kouros Statues – a group of remarkable ancient sculptures dating back to the 6th century BC, hewn from marble and believed to represent gods and heroes from ancient times. The trail meanders on to the village of Chalki, where cobblestone streets wind through historic buildings adorned with colourful facades. In this quintessential Naxos village, you'll find quaint artisan shops and traditional tavernas, amid the scent of citrus trees. Grab drinks here before dashing to take in the sunset at Portara, also known as the 'Great Door' – a massive marble doorway, part of the ancient temple of Apollo.
Day 5
Greek peak bagging, wine tasting and sunset swims
Hiking
Get set for the biggest hike of the trip – to Mount Zas. This is the highest peak in the Cyclades, and one steeped in Greek mythology as the legendary birthplace of Zeus, King of the Gods. Ascend the mountain via a network of rugged trails, while hearing the ancient Greek tales that are woven into this part of Greece. Hitting the summit, you'll be rewarded with an unbroken 360-degree panorama over Naxos and the neighbouring islands. Descend from the summit then hike on to the village of Filoti, nestled at the mountain's base and a gorgeous place to wind up the hike and grab a cold drink. Your efforts are further rewarded as you head on to a local winery for a wine-tasting experience, delving into Naxos' unique wines which showcase the eco-conscious spirit of the island. Finish up an epic day by swimming in the inviting waters at Agios Prokopios beach, an idyllic stretch of coastline renowned for its soft, golden sands.
Day 6
Koufonisia boat trip
Tuck into breakfast at the hotel before heading to the Agia Anna pier where you'll hop on a traditional wooden boat bound for the Koufonisia Islands. These two tiny, tranquil, hidden gems are nestled within the Small Cyclades, far from the bustle of the larger islands in the chain. Settle in on deck for a two-hour long cruise to Kato Koufonissi, where you'll anchor in exotic waters that wouldn't look out of place in the Caribbean. Dive in for a swim, while the crew lay out a Greek BBQ lunch for you to tuck into on board. Sail on for a further 20 minutes to Ano Koufonissi, where you'll get back on dry land to explore the coastline, beaches and quaint village on foot – maybe grab an ice-cold frappe at a local café while absorbing views of the Aegean Sea. Later in the afternoon you'll sail on to the Rina Cave – a unique spot accessible only by boat, where you can swim and snorkel directly from the boat into the cave, or brave a cliff dive. Set sail back to Naxos as the sun sets, in time to dive into a taverna for dinner after a memorable day.
Day 7
Back to Athens
Hiking
Soak up the last of your time on Naxos over breakfast this morning, before heading to the port to board the ferry back to Athens. Arriving mid afternoon, you'll head back to your hotel and later, head out with your guide to explore Athens on foot. No trip to the city is complete without a hike around cobbled streets and rocky outcrop in the historic centre – bask in views of the Acropolis, the ancient Greek citadel, as you walk. Settle into one of your host's favourite tavernas in the evening, for a farewell dinner to toast an incredible week of Greek island gallivanting.
Day 8
Farewell Greece
Your adventure ends today after breakfast as your host transfers you to Athens Airport in time for your onward flight.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Athens International Airport
14:00 on Day 1
Ends
Athens International Airport
12:00 on Day 8
Transfers
Your host will meet you on arrival at Athens International Airport at 14:00pm and transfer you downtown to your hotel in central Athens. If you are already in Athens, please make your own way to the hotel meeting point as will be confirmed to you by your host in advance. The sunset kayaking trip will set off from downtown Athens around 16:00, so if you want to do this activity please ensure you've arrived ahead of that time (either on the group transfer from the airport at 14:00, or be at the hotel by 15:30 if you are already in Athens). If you are landing in the evening, you can take a taxi from Athens Airport to the hotel via the subway straight from the airport for around €8, or in a taxi which will cost around €50.
On Day 8, your host will transfer you back to Athens International Airport at 12:00 in time to catch any flights departing from 14:00 onwards. Airport transfers are included if you arrive on Day 1 and depart on Day 8 – if you are arriving earlier or departing later, your host can arrange private airport transfers for an additional fee. See Optional Extras for prices.
Travel options
Athens International Airport is a major international hub, with daily direct flights from airports across the UK, Europe and east coast of North America.
The departure dates of this trip are scheduled to coincide with and follow our Hike, Kayak and Raft Greece's Wild North adventure, so you can visit the mountains and the islands of Greece in one holiday!
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2 – Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 8
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Food is a highlight on any trip to Greece. Sitting in a taverna overlooking the Aegean Sea after a day of exploring day with a cold bottle of Mythos, a Greek salad, fresh bread and tzatziki, grilled fish and gemista... life doesn't get much better. Breakfasts will be provided at your hotels using local, seasonal products with hot and cold options, sweets, fresh juices and coffees. Lunch on board the boat is a big Greek barbecue with pork skewers (and veggie alternatives), salad, halloumi, tzatziki, fresh bread and fruit. Your host will both welcome you and bid you farewell with dinner in one of their favourite tavernas in Athens, where you'll into a range of classic Greek dishes. In between, you are free to dine as a group for lunch and dinner anywhere you like on Tinos and Naxos – your guide will make suggestions about where the best food can be found. On the hike to Mount Zas, you'll buy a packed lunch to enjoy as a picnic part-way through the hike. For the meals which aren't included, please budget approximately €7-10 per lunch and €15-25 per dinner (drinks not included).
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for – please just request this on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Athens
Your time in the Greek mountains is sandwiched by a night in Athens at the start and end of your trip. Your hotel will be located in the centre of Athens which makes for a great launchpad to see some of the city's premier sights such as the Acropolis, Archeological Museum, Temple of Zeus, Plaka and many more. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with en suite bathrooms (couples can request a double room).
The hotels used vary depending on the departure date but are all of a similar good standard, your host will advise the exact arrangements for your trip two weeks before, properties such as Hotel Arethusa, Ilisia Hotel, B21 Residence, and Boss Hotel.
Tinos
On the island of Tinos, you'll stay at the Venus Minimal Hotel – a modern-style hotel in the centre of Chora Tinou,the island's main town, near charming narrow streets full of wonderful shops, restaurants, taverns, bars and traditional cafes. You'll stay in a twin-share room, unless you request a double room.
Naxos
On the island of Naxos, you'll stay at the Naxian Spirit Inn, built to a traditional Cycladic-style with a modern twist, all rooms have air conditioning and a balcony. Just a short walk or local bus ride will take you to St George Beach and the town centre. You'll stay in twin-share room with ensuite bathrooms (couples can request a double room).
Upgrades
For solo travellers looking for their own space, an optional private room can be booked for an extra charge, see Optional Extras for the price. Please request this at the time of booking (this is subject to availability).
This trip has been rated as Easy
This is an easy adventure and anyone with basic fitness, capable of walking for a few hours a day, will be fine. Some of the paths can be a bit uneven in places and walking poles (which are provided) can be helpful with this. The hike to the summit of Mount Zas is the most strenuous part of the trip, but the going is very steady with no rush – or indeed obligation – to get to the top (though the rewards are well worth the effort!).
It's by no means a requirement as most of the trip takes place on dry land – however, to enjoy this trip to the fullest, you should be happy being in the sea! The waters around Koufonisia in particular are some of the most inviting that you'll find anywhere in Europe, and there will be ample opportunity to dive in and lap up the waters from beaches, cliffs and directly from the boat.
What will I need to carry?
You'll need to have a larger bag suitable for all your belongings which will be transported for you, and then a small daypack to carry personal items during each day of hiking.
The Cyclades Islands are known for their warm and sunny weather. We run this trip in May, June, late August and September: the best times to visit this part of Greece with fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures. The average temperatures during these months are typically in the mid- to high-20s ℃ (70-80 °F) during the day and in the low- to mid-20s °C (60-70 °F) at night. The months of July and August are more crowded and the temperatures can reach uncomfortable highs, so we don't currently offer trips in the Cyclades during these months.
Amazing Holiday
This was my first trip with Much Better Adventures and it surpassed all my expectations. It was truly wonderful. The hiking was superb. The guides were excellent, especially their knowledge and passion for their country. The transport from hotels, ferries and hikes was brilliant and worked perfectly.
The best part was being part of a group that got along so well - it was the best fun. Another pleasant surprise was the food. Konstantinos, Mike and Syra took us to cracking restaurants each evening and the "family style" meals, where the table was laden with delicious food, was a highlight (not forgetting those carafes of wine for €6.00!). The island hopping aspect of the trip was great and I really enjoyed the day on the boat.
The hiking is described as easy, which was about right.
I would highly recommend this trip. It was the first time my husband and I did an organised group holiday and I think we will be back for more!
So many memories created in one week
My wife and I joined nine other people on this amazing week of island hopping, trekking, kayaking and sailing on some of Greece’s quieter islands. With so many great memories and a full schedule of activities and travel it seemed like much more than just one week.
At the heart of the trip was great organisation. Everything went so smoothly thanks to the great team. Our guides — Konstantinos, Mike and Sira — made this trip. They were knowledgeable but also great fun.
An unexpected highlight was the amazing food, with the group opting to eat as “a family” most evenings. The local taverns we were brought to served marvellous, fresh, local Greek dishes. Just what the doctor ordered after a day’s hiking!
The trekking was the real highlight for me. The routes brought us to quiet parts of islands and our guides were so knowledgeable. While some of the island routes intersected with marked trails they were poorly marked and I wouldn’t try them on my own.
The group also gelled well. Really enjoyable company!
Overall, an amazing week.
Fantastic trip!
We had an amazing time on the trip! Konstantinos, Mike and Syra were fantastic guides leading us on brilliant hikes and with some great food selections! Highlights of the trip were definitely the big hike, the day spent on the boat jumping into the sea and exploring these less busy islands!! Thanks so much for a great holiday!
Hiking, swimming and Greek Island hopping bliss!
This was an amazing trip, the hosts (Kostas, Sira and Mike) were fantastic. Accommodation was great and the tavernas were divine! We ate 'family style' every night and it meant we got to taste so much lovely food. The hikes were fairly challenging but the pay off was worth it. The swim spots were beautiful and the wine wasn't bad either! An energetic and well organised week.
Incredible experience!
This was my first MBA trip and it was the most memorable trip I have ever taken. Everything was wonderful - our group leaders, the other participants, the hiking and kayaking, and the beautiful natural scenery of the islands we visited. I would highly recommend Much Better Adventures and I am already looking forward to my next MBA trip!
This is the best trip I have ever taken!
Arriving in Athens, I was instantly in holiday-mode as we set about exploring in kayaks to a secluded beach at sunset. The hikes had breath-taking views, rocky landscapes and highlighted each island's unique characteristics. The trip was busy, but well-balanced in terms of activities and relaxation.
Our guides, Kostas, Syra and Mike, were amazing! Their local knowledge was invaluable as they took us to beautiful spots that tourists don’t usually see and we had delicious meals at Tavernas that were great value.
I booked this trip solo, but made new friends and everyone in the group really added to my experience.
This was a truly unforgettable - I loved every minute!
Brilliant trip
My wife and I are just home from this amazing trip. Our guides, Kostas, Mike and Syra were just wonderful. Their knowledge of Greece and in particular the islands was outstanding. The hiking routes took us through stunning mountain villages you just wouldn't know about without local knowledge and insight. Great hotels on both Tinos and Naxos. The boat trip was excellent, we even had our own 'VIP AREA'. This was my second MBA trip, my wife's first but we've already started planning the Northern Greece trip for May 2025 with the same guides. You just can't go wrong on this trip. Very highly recommended.
Lifetime adventure!
Had a fabulous time in Greece, all thanks to Much Better Adventures! Started with sea kayaking which was so much fun - exploring the fascinating scenery from the water under the attentive guidance of Mike, followed by a whole week of hiking across beautiful Greek islands, swimming, and eating in the local tavernas carefully selected by our guide. It was a great time! Thank you for making my holiday so amazing :)
Brilliant Adventure in Greece
A lovely trip with a great mixture of activities and chill time. Seeing the different islands really made the trip interesting and taking the public ferry to each one was a lovely way to relax in the sunshine. I would highly recommend this trip. It has inspired me to do some more island hopping.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- Snorkels and masks
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack
- Daypack (20-30 litres)
CLOTHES
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear and socks
- Swimwear - multiple sets!
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat with UV protection
- Buff or neckscarf in case of strong sun on the hikes
- Sleepwear
- Hiking boots or trail runners (worn-in)
- Sandals/flip flops
- Beach shoes (optional, but useful for some of the more pebbly beaches)
OTHER
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Insect repellent
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Electrolyte tabs/Rehydration salts (important in hot weather)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Reusable water bottle x1 litre (minimum)
Double/Twin room in Athens - 2024
Payable Before Departure
Double/Twin room in Athens - 2024
… Per Night
Double/Twin room in Athens - 2025
Payable Before Departure
Double/Twin room in Athens - 2025
… Per Night
Single room in Athens - 2024
Payable Before Departure
Single room in Athens - 2024
… Per Night
Single room in Athens - 2025
Payable Before Departure
Single room in Athens - 2025
… Per Night
Optional Private Room Upgrade - 2024
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade - 2024
… Per Person
Optional Private Room Upgrade - 2025
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade - 2025
… Per Person
Private airport transfer - each way
Payable Before Departure
Private airport transfer - each way
…
Airport Transfer - One Way - (Before 8am and after 10pm)
Payable Before Departure
Airport Transfer - One Way - (Before 8am and after 10pm)
…
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 190kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Tips are not included in the trip cost. These are entirely at your discretion but there is an expectation to tip for good service. Your guide will help with advice, however we suggest the below as a guideline per person:
€5 per day
Of course, you are free to tip more or less, and the amount should be reflective of your perception of service and quality – a tip is not compulsory and should only be given when you receive excellent service.
The drinking water in Greece is perfectly safe, so you'll be able to fill up at the hotels and at refill points during your days out. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle with you.
It's possible to leave excess luggage in Athens at the start of this trip and collect it when returning to Athens on Day 7; but please discuss this with your host in advance.
Yes absolutely! Most of the departure dates of this trip are scheduled to coincide with our Hike, Kayak and Raft Greece's Wild North adventure, so before visiting the islands, you can also go and visit Greece's mountains - all in one holiday!
You'll be paddling in two-person sit-in-kayaks.
The kayaks used on this trip have a maximum combined weight capacity of 550lb/250kg/39st. If you weigh more than 120kg or are over 2m tall, please check with us before booking this trip as we'll need to ensure that the kayaks and equipment provided is suitable for your comfort and safety.
You'll have one guide throughout the trip leading the tour, and you'll also have a skipper and crew on the boat trip to Koufonisia.
This trip visits locations where daytime temperatures can be extremely high during the times of year when this trip operates. High humidity and limited access to shade can also be factors, and warm temperatures can continue into the nighttime, which additionally influence the body’s ability to cool down. Personal care should be taken to keep cool as best possible in the conditions, such as wearing appropriate clothing and proper hydration. Very high temperatures can impair an individual’s physical abilities to perform an activity that they may otherwise be able to do competently at cooler temperatures. People may experience symptoms associated with dehydration and Heat Stroke. Your guide(s) are trained to mitigate the risks associated with high temperatures, by carefully managing the intensity of the activity, and to provide the appropriate support response should someone feel ill during the trip. Should you experience health issues during your trip you should inform your guide immediately so the proper care can be provided.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Our team of Adventure Hunters co-create exclusive adventures which are run by highly vetted, specialist hosts. The trip is run by our trusted host partner in the destination. We only work with independent, local, in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with. You’ll be introduced to the host straight after making a booking via the Much Better Adventures platform.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We recommend checking out the country-specific information and also talking to a travel nurse.
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
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DEPARTURE DATES
Sunday 1st June 2025
to Sunday 8th June 2025
Sunday 8th June 2025
to Sunday 15th June 2025
Sunday 22nd June 2025
to Sunday 29th June 2025
