Dolce Vita Adventures

You’ll be met at the airport and brought to your elegant 4-star hotel perfectly located in the historical district, only steps away from the lively Plaka neighborhood. Late this afternoon we’ll gather on our rooftop’s bar for a warm welcome from our sweet friend Denise, our fluent, insightful local expert and companion for this Greek adventure. Sip on a signature Greek drink as we talk about the days ahead, all under the breathtaking view of the illuminated Parthenon. Later we’ll stroll to another rooftop for a special Welcome Dinner savoring authentic traditional flavors while Athens city lights sparkle below us. (D)

Breakfast with a view before starting at the surprising Athens Metro, a fascinating combo, museum- metro, showcasing ancient artifacts unearthed during its construction. Witness the slow-motion Changing of the Guards at the Royal Palace, then walk along Ermou avenue, lined with shops, spice vendors and a vibrant fish market. Pause for traditional Greek coffee, expertly brewed over hot sand and paired with sweet loukoumi. We’ll walk to the Monastiraki vintage and antiques market area for free time and lunch on your own at any traditional food taverna. Late afternoon, a professional tour guide will lead us up the Acropolis hill, sharing history and significance as we walk through the iconic Parthenon and Acropolis Museum. End the day in the delightful Plaka with a delicious group dinner. (B, D)

Breakfast and transfer to the port to board a high-speed ferry to the Cycladic paradise, Naxos Island. Settle into your charming family-run hotel in Chora town then step outside for a beachfront stroll or lunch at your leisure. Later we’ll take an orientation walk through Chora to nearby Portara, the strikingly photogenic, waterfront temple ruins dedicated to Apollo. Watch the sun dip into the sea as we savor a group dinner featuring island specialties, local wine, Naxian Graviera Cheese, Kitron and the welcoming island hospitality. (B, D)

Guided by Naxos’ own expert local foodie and cultural ambassador, today promises a full immersion into the heart and highlights of this largest Cycladic island. Beginning with a visit to the Arseniko cheese maker’s home, you’ll have the opportunity to feed the farm animals and learn the 1000’s years old tradition of making this PDO awarded cheese. Sample a variety of homemade traditional goodies for lunch washed down with their family’s produced wine. After lunch, we’ll continue our exploration of the island, wander medieval Kinidaros village, walk along some scenic trails, check out the massive Kouros statues and view the stunning coastal scenery. Free time later to unwind at the beach and catch the sunset. (B, L)

Set sail with the captain and crew for a day along the stunning coastline. Cruise through the smaller islands known as “Small Cyclades” famous for their shallow, crystal-clear emerald and turquoise waters, hidden coves and breathtaking island of Koufonissi. Snorkel, relax, lunch and swim some more. Back in Naxos you’ll still have time to unwind at “our” beach and explore in town at your leisure. (B, L)

A short ferry ride brings us to lovely Paros for the next 4 nights. At arrival, enjoy a poolside lunch with incredible views. Later on we’ll take a guided walk through Parikia town’s charming white alleys lined with bright bougainvillea and boutiques. Visit the legend-filled, beautifully-byzantine, Panagi Ekatontapiliani, the Monastery of 100 doors. Free time before we meet for group dinner at our favorite waterfront Taverna. (B, L, D)

Head to water-front Nousa on the northern side of Paros Island. As Parikia’s “glitz-ier” sister, this charming harbor town delights with sites, spectacularly colored bright blue cafés and a water-logged tiny Venetian Fort. Here we’ll enjoy a wine tasting lite lunch with a local caper and wine producing family at their quintessential Greek villa above Kolimbethres beach. Free again back in Parikia. (B, L)

Your next 2 days are completely yours to explore self-paced with endless options. It’s easy to rent an ATV (or a car), circle the entire island, other towns, museums, castles or your own secluded beach. Take a short 10 minute ferry to the island of Antiparos and explore its famous caves. Just 400 steps lead you down a huge natural wonder of shapes, the largest stalagmite believed to be Europe’s oldest, dating 45 million years. (B)

Continue your unscheduled, solo time and follow your heart. Glamorous Mykonos is less than an hour ferry ride away if that’s what flips your skirt. More serene? Walk down to Lavidia beach, chat with the same local fisherman you’ve seen each day mending their nets, try another local taverna (we have plenty of tried and true suggestions), relax poolside with the views and a good book. Tonight is our final island dinner together. (B, D)

Spend your last Paros morning soaking it in and picking up last minute mementos: original artwork, handmade sandals, local Greek honey or olive oil. This afternoon we’ll ferry back to Athens and take a private transfer to the small town of Markopoulo, very near the airport. Dinner options are a walk away before a good rest in preparation for tomorrow’s, probably early, flight back to the US. (B)

Hold on to that island peace. After check-out we’ve organized our reliable drivers to take you to the Athens International Airport for your journey home, carrying with you new memories of Greece’ timeless beauty and charm. (B)