Our 5, 9 or 11 day Greek Island Hopper is perfect for 18 - 39 year olds who are looking for the ultimate Greek island hopping experience.
Suss out ancient wonders in Athens, sip wine on the volcanic island of Santorini, party through the cobbled streets of Ios, cruise around Europe's bluest waters in Paros and get lost in the labyrinth of alleyways in Mykonos as you dance til' dawn!
Choose your route and get ready to see the best the Greek islands have to offer.
SUMMARY
The Athens Return itinerary spans 11 sun-drenched days, taking in unforgettable sunsets, epic nightlife, and impressive Greek culture with like-minded travellers. Your adventure starts in Athens, the cradle of civilization, before hopping through the postcard-perfect islands of Santorini, Ios, Paros and Mykonos, before returning to Athens for one final night.
From watching Santorini sunsets with your fellow travellers, to dancing under the stars in Ios, beach-hopping in Paros, and soaking up the electric day-to-night parties in Mykonos, the Athens Return itinerary is more than just a vacation— it’s the start of epic stories you’ll be telling for years.
This route is great for travellers flying in and out of Athens, as the itinerary starts and ends in this ancient city.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
SUMMARY
Your tour starts in Athens, where you'll meet your group at 3.30pm for your Welcome Meeting at the Athens Hawks Urban.
Here you’ll meet your Tour Manager & fellow travellers, and get a feel for what’s in store for the rest of the week!
Don't forget to join the included Meet Athens Orientation Walk at 4pm to experience both historical and modern-day Athens.
Spend your evening getting to know your fellow travellers or exploring the Monastiraki and Syntagma areas, as well as the traditional Psirri area. There are plenty of Greek tavernas nearby to indulge in a traditional meal this evening!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
RELATED FAQ
SUMMARY
Your Greek Island Hopper Tour begins as you watch the beautiful sunrise from the back of a ferry departing Athens.
This afternoon, check into your accommodation before joining your Tour Manager for a guided walking tour around Fira Town. Shortly after, we'll head for dinner at a restaurant overlooking the crater of Santorini’s volcano, the perfect spot to take in an incredible sunset!
Explore Fira Town at night as you meander around the white buildings and cobblestone streets, stepping inside hole-in-the-wall bars and clubs with your group to kick off your first night in the beautiful Greek Islands!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Pinch yourself! You’re in one of the most famous and most visited islands in Europe!
Get ready to experience magic moments and breathtaking views! Join our Included Excursion where you’ll hike with your co-travellers to the famous village of Oia, taste authentic gyros and take a dip at the famous Black Beach!
In the evening you’ll have the chance to taste the local wines of Santorini in one of the most famous wineries on the island.
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
SUMMARY
Discover the most eclectic and crazy town the Greek Islands has to offer - Ios!
This island’s main town is filled with small bars, each carrying a unique theme.
Join your Tour Manager as they take you on a short tour of the main town before joining a pub crawl you won't remember! Visit the infamous Escobar for a rave in a cave!
Attempt as many bars as possible and try not to get lost in the chaotic streets of Ios - your mission is to make it to sunrise after ending your night at the legendary Irish nightclub!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
SUMMARY
Spend the day relaxing on the beach, reading your book or exploring the island. This afternoon, join our optional Speedboat Safari excursion to explore hidden caves and snorkel in the Mediterranean Sea.
There is also the option to participate in watersports on this excursion for the adrenaline junkies in the group!
After a day in the sun and sea, you’ll soon see why the stunning sandy beaches of Ios are so famous.
ACCOMODATION
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Today we head to Paros, another beauty of the Greek Islands, offering a cultural experience for you to discover. Stroll the main promenade with your guide as they give you a short tour of the main town.
Wander the twisting alleyways filled with boutique shops and grab some of the best ice cream the Greek Islands have to offer! Tonight, a must-do is our optional Greek Night!
This is your chance to experience what it is like to be Greek, sampling Greek cuisine and participating in Greek dancing!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Today, you'll get the opportunity to speak and interact with local people, learning more about Paros!
Join us on our unique boating excursion for the day, exploring Paros and Antiparos from the sea!
Tonight you'll meet up with everyone for relaxing drinks by the sea, taking in another famous Greek sunset!
ACCOMODATION
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Today's destination is the windy island of Mykonos! Grab some lunch and get ready for the afternoon party at GuapaLoca beach.
Staying at Paradise Beach means you're at the heart of Mykonos's world famous party scene. Located right on the beachfront, this venue plays host to legendary parties and renowned DJs, bringing the ultimate nightlife experience right to your doorstep.
ACCOMODATION
SUMMARY
Enjoy your last full day on the islands by exploring Paradise Beach and indulging in the resort style surroundings.
This afternoon we’ll catch the bus into Chora Town and explore the main town on a short guided walking tour - just try to remember your way out of the chaotic pirate town!
We’ll dine in the Paraportiani area, before we explore the nightlife in Chora Town. Head back to Paradise Beach for the ultimate send off - one more epic party!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
SUMMARY
We farewell the islands and make our way back to Athens for the final night of your tour! Enjoy one last traditional Greek dinner with newly made friends and your Tour Manager!
ACCOMODATION
SUMMARY
Your Greek Island Hopper Tour finishes when you check-out of the hotel at approximately 10am.
Say goodbye to your new friends and reminisce on the past 10 incredible days!
Your Tour Manager will be around to help you out if you have any questions about onward travel arrangements.
SUMMARY
The 9 day Santorini to Mykonos itinerary is the ultimate Greek island adventure, blending breathtaking sunsets, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural experiences. Starting on the dreamy island of Santorini, you'll hop between the Cyclades, exploring the lively energy of Ios, the laid-back charm of Paros, and the glamorous buzz of Mykonos.
Picture yourself savouring Santorini’s magical sunsets, dancing 'til dawn in Ios, uncovering hidden beaches in Paros, and revelling in Mykonos’ legendary day-to-night parties. Perfect for those flying into Santorini and out of Mykonos - or anyone craving extra time in the stunning Cyclades - this trip is your gateway to unforgettable island vibes.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
SUMMARY
Make your way to your accommodation on the island of Santorini. Here you’ll meet your Tour Manager for your 4.30pm Welcome Meeting before a guided walking tour around Fira Town. Shortly after we'll head out for an incredible group dinner overlooking the crater of Santorini’s volcano. This is the perfect spot to try Greek cuisine and take in one of Santorini’s famous sunsets.
Tonight you’ll explore Fira Town, meandering around the white buildings and stepping inside hole-in-the-wall bars and clubs with your group to kick off your first night in the beautiful Greek Islands!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
RELATED FAQ
SUMMARY
Pinch yourself! You’re on one of the most famous and most visited islands in Europe! Get ready to experience magical moments and breathtaking views! Join our included excursion, where you’ll hike with your co-travellers to the famous village of Oia, taste authentic gyros and take a dip at the famous Black Beach!
In the evening, you’ll have the chance to taste the local wines of Santorini in one of the most famous wineries on the island.
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
SUMMARY
Discover the most eclectic and crazy town the Greek Islands has to offer - Ios!
This island’s main town is filled with small bars, each carrying a unique theme. Join your Tour Manager as they take you on a short tour of the main town before joining a pub crawl you won’t remember!
Visit the infamous Slammer Bar, where ‘slammer shots’ are a lot less scary than they seem! Attempt as many bars as possible and try not to get lost in the chaotic streets of Ios - your mission is to make it to sunrise after ending your night at the legendary Irish nightclub!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Spend the day relaxing on the beach, reading your book or exploring the island. This afternoon, join our optional Speedboat Safari excursion to explore hidden caves and snorkel in the Mediterranean Sea.
There is also the option to participate in watersports on this excursion for the adrenaline junkies in the group!
After a day in the sun and sea, you’ll soon see why the stunning sandy beaches of Ios are so famous.
ACCOMODATION
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Today, we head to Paros, another beauty of the Greek Islands offering a cultural experience for you to discover. Stroll the main promenade with your guide as they give you a short tour of the main town. Wander the twisting alleyways filled with boutique shops and grab some of the best ice cream the Greek Islands have to offer!
Tonight, a must-do is our optional Greek Night! This is your chance to experience what it is like to be Greek, sampling Greek cuisine and participating in Greek dancing!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Today, you'll get the opportunity to speak and interact with local people, learning more about Paros!
Join us on our unique boating excursion for the day, exploring Paros and Antiparos from the sea!
Tonight, you'll meet up with everyone for relaxing drinks by the sea, taking in another famous Greek sunset!
ACCOMODATION
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Today's destination is the windy island of Mykonos! Grab some lunch and get ready for the afternoon party at GuapaLoca beach.
Staying at Paradise Beach means you're at the heart of Mykonos's world-famous party scene. Located right on the beachfront, this venue plays host to legendary parties and renowned DJs, bringing the ultimate nightlife experience right to your doorstep.
ACCOMODATION
SUMMARY
Enjoy your last full day on the islands by exploring Paradise Beach and indulging in the resort-style surroundings.
This afternoon, we’ll catch the bus into Chora Town and explore the main town on a short guided walking tour - just try to remember your way out of the chaotic pirate town!
We’ll dine in the Paraportiani area before we explore the nightlife in Chora Town. Head back to Paradise Beach for the ultimate send-off - one more epic party!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Farewell your new friends as your Greek Islands adventure comes to an end!
Spend the morning lazing on the beautiful Paradise Beach or exploring more of this fascinating island before checking out at 10am.
SUMMARY
The 5 day Santorini to Ios itinerary is the ultimate Greek island escape, packing jaw-dropping sunsets, buzzing nightlife and iconic vibes into one unforgettable adventure. Kick things off in dreamy Santorini, with two epic days to soak up white-washed views, volcanic beaches and world-famous sunsets, before turning up the energy in Ios - the party capital of the Greek Islands.
Think sunset sips in Santorini, pub crawls in Ios and long, lazy beach days - all across five incredible days. Perfect if you’re short on time, this trip is an ideal taste of the Greek Islands, with the freedom to explore independently before or after your tour.
ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
SUMMARY
Make your way to your accommodation on the island of Santorini. Here you’ll meet your Tour Manager for your 4.30pm Welcome Meeting before a guided walking tour around Fira Town. Shortly after we'll head out for an incredible group dinner overlooking the crater of Santorini’s volcano. This is the perfect spot to try Greek cuisine and take in one of Santorini’s famous sunsets.
Tonight you’ll explore Fira Town, meandering around the white buildings and stepping inside hole-in-the-wall bars and clubs with your group to kick off your first night in the beautiful Greek Islands!!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
RELATED FAQ
SUMMARY
Pinch yourself! You’re on one of the most famous and most visited islands in Europe! Get ready to experience magical moments and breathtaking views! Join our included excursion, where you’ll hike with your co-travellers to the famous village of Oia, taste authentic gyros and take a dip at the famous Black Beach!
In the evening, you’ll have the chance to taste the local wines of Santorini in one of the most famous wineries on the island.
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
SUMMARY
Discover the most eclectic and crazy town the Greek Islands has to offer - Ios!
This island’s main town is filled with small bars, each carrying a unique theme. Join your Tour Manager as they take you on a short tour of the main town before joining a pub crawl you won’t remember!
Visit the infamous Slammer Bar, where ‘slammer shots’ are a lot less scary than they seem! Attempt as many bars as possible and try not to get lost in the chaotic streets of Ios - your mission is to make it to sunrise after ending your night at the legendary Irish nightclub!
ACCOMODATION
INCLUDED EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Spend the day relaxing on the beach, reading your book or exploring the island. This afternoon, join our optional Speedboat Safari excursion to explore hidden caves and snorkel in the Mediterranean Sea.
There is also the option to participate in watersports on this excursion for the adrenaline junkies in the group!
After a day in the sun and sea, you’ll soon see why the stunning sandy beaches of Ios are so famous.
ACCOMODATION
OPTIONAL EXCURSION
SUMMARY
Farewell your new friends as your Greek Island Hopping adventure comes to an end!
Spend the morning relaxing at the hotel or exploring more of this fascinating island before checking out at 11am.
Rest & recharge in dorm-style small hotels and boutique hostels
Continental breakfast is included daily
Your dedicated Tour Manager will make your Greek Island Hopper a breeze!
We’ll organise your ferries and port transfers for you
Party your way through the islands with included pub crawls & parties
Hike along the edge of Santorini's famous volcano in Oia town
Indulge in a traditional souvlaki lunch & taste Greek wines at a local winery
Explore each new destination with a guided walking tour
Secure your spot with only a €60 deposit. Your full balance isn't due until 12 weeks before departure.
Choose to stay in shared dorms with no more than five other like-minded travellers. Dorm accommodation is in the form of single/bunk beds and features shared bathroom facilities.
If you’d prefer a little more privacy when you travel, you’re able to book a private, twin-shared room. Private Rooms are slightly more spacious than shared dorms and feature a private bathroom.
An included walking tour to get to know Europe's oldest capital city, taking in some of the most famous monuments of historical and modern-day Athens. Please note: this excursion is only available on the Athens Return itinerary.
Hike along Santorini's caldera into Oia town, where you’ll stop to take in the stunning scenery before enjoying a traditional souvlaki lunch. Spend the afternoon at the famous Black Beach before indulging in a local wine tasting.
Spend the day on a wooden pirate-style boat cruising around the stunning Antiparos Island, visiting the crystal clear Blue Lagoon and stopping at secluded bays to swim, jump off the boat or snorkel before enjoying a BBQ lunch onboard.
Experience a Greek cultural evening, complete with traditional dancing, a variety of ‘mezes’ (appetizers) and traditional liquer – this is your chance to taste Greek delicacies including freshly baked wood-oven bread!
Kick start the afternoon on a group tube ride! Speed along the beautiful Ios coastline at sunset and stop to snorkel and explore hidden caves next to a shipwreck. After the adrenaline wears off, take a speedboat to a secluded beach to swim, relax and recover from the night before.
Athens has an international airport that many low cost European and International carriers service. Flights are not included in our tours.
The tour officially starts at 3.30pm at Athens Hawks Urban, with the welcome meeting taking place at the cafe located within the accommodation. You can check in from 2 pm. The tour ends back at the Athens Hawks Urban, where you will spend the last night of your tour. Your tour ends when you check out of the hotel at 11.00 am the following day. Due to the possibility of delays to the ferry, we strongly recommend against booking onward travel on the night you return to Athens (day 10 of the tour).
The tour officially starts at 4:30pm with the Welcome Meeting at Grande Murano Hotel on the first day. You can check-in to your accommodation at any time during this day. Just have in mind that your room might be ready after 2pm. The tour ends at check out from Paradise Beach Club (Mykonos) at 10.00am.
The tour officially starts at 4:30pm with the Welcome Meeting at Grande Murano Hotel on the first day. You can check-in to your accommodation at any time during this day. Just have in mind that your room might be ready after 2pm. The tour ends at check out from Skala Hotel (Ios) at 11.00am.
A basic continental breakfast is included every morning with your Greek Island Hopper. Lunch, dinner and snacks are not included, as this is another way we save on costs by allowing you to spend as much as you like on food and drinks, and try authentic local cuisine. Your friendly tour manager will of course recommend places to eat and drink!
We offer two accommodation options on our Greek Island Hopper.
Shared, dorm-style accommodation is a standard inclusion on our tours, which sees up to 5 people of mixed genders sharing a dorm. Due to capacity restrictions, accommodation partners may occasionally allocate Private Twin Rooms to guests that have booked shared accommodation, however, this is not guaranteed and is out of our control.
For guests who would prefer the privacy of a private room, there is the option of upgrading to a Private Twin Room for an additional cost. Private Twin Rooms are available for 2 guests booking a twin-shared room. If you’re a solo traveller and would like to book a Private Twin Room, please contact our Sales Team to check availability and pricing.
To view our accommodation partners, images and facilities, visit our blog here.
*Please note: accommodation is subject to change. In the event of a change in accommodation provider, alternative accommodation will be provided of the same or higher standard.
The tours are designed for 18-39 year old travellers, so a mixture of this age range will be on the tour with you. We find that most of our clients are a mix of couples, groups and solo travellers. All travellers must be 18 years of age when the tour commences.
We specialise in small group tours, which means a more personal, flexible, and connected travel experience. Our small group tours allow you to get to know your Tour Manager and fellow travellers better, making your trip feel less like a tour and more like an epic adventure with friends.
We book the most convenient ferries as close to departure as possible to ensure you are getting the best available ferry, and to take into consideration any foreseeable strikes or disruptions! Using a combination of ferries and high speed catamarans, we select the best ferries to match the check-in time at your accommodation, ensuring you have more time to explore each destination. Once at your destination we arrange all transfers between the ports and accommodation.
The length of the ferry will vary depending on availability and the destination, ranging from 1 - 7 hours. We recommend bringing a good book or utilising the onboard wi-fi on some of the longer journeys.
If you’re joining us on an 11 day tour, you will arrive at Athens International Airport. From Athens International Airport, you can take the Red line Metro directly to Sepolia station. Once you arrive at Sepolia Station, Athens Hawks Urban is located 300m away.
If you’re joining us on a 5 or 9 day day tour, you will start your tour in Santorini. If you are arriving by ferry, there are taxis which will take you to Grande Murano Hotel when you arrive in port. To get to your accommodation from Thira Airport, the cheapest way is to travel by bus to Fira Town and then walk for approximately 8 minutes.
We are a small family-owned and operated company that’s highest priority is you, our guests! We have established relationships with local suppliers so you are receiving an authentic Greek experience. We also take care of all the work for you, so unlike other Greek Island tours which require you to book your own rooms or sleep in tents, all our accommodations are in 2 and 3 star hostels and hotels which provide air conditioning and comfort during those warm summer evenings in Greece. We also arrange all of your ferry tickets, removing the risk of cancellations, strikes and inclement weather ruining your holidays.
Our Greek Island Hopper Tour is not a cruise, you travel between the islands via public ferries and stay in hostels or small hotels on each island and on the mainland.
We recommend a starting budget of €60 per person, per day to cover meals. If you would like to participate in additional excursions, or party in the evenings, we would suggest allowing additional budget. Greece uses the Euro and is a part of the European Union as well as the Schengen region. There are plenty of ATM’s in Greece to get cash out as well as exchange offices.
While transfers between the ferry port and accommodation are included, it's important to note that some of our hotels and hostels are located in picturesque locations by the beach and require local transfers to get to the main town. If you wish to explore the town or take part in an orientation walk, please be prepared to cover the cost of local transport (maximum amount €5).
Yes - despite our busy schedule, you'll have time to explore local culture, take a stroll, or get up to whatever you desire to make the most out of your experience. Your tour guide will advise you each day as to when free time is available.
Yes we are! Sail Croatia owns and operates Island Hopping. Sail Croatia has been operating since 2003 and today is one of the biggest and most respected tour operators in Europe.
Yes, the itinerary may change due to a variety of factors beyond our control, including weather conditions. In the event of an itinerary change, we will make every effort to offer a suitable alternative that ensures an enjoyable and safe experience for all guests.
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