8 Day Greece Charter Itinerary - Santorini to Kusadasi

The celebrated Santorini stands strong and majestic, guarding well the secrets of Atlantis, the lost city. Santorini is different from the rest of the Cyclades group by virtue of its geological structure, which is the result of the eruption of a now inactive volcano for which the island itself owes its very own existence. Guests looking to learn more about this island's history would benefit from a trip to Akrotiri.

The landscape is extremely imposing on the western side of the island, where crisp white villas with cerulean roofs perch on top of gigantic, steep rocks that plunge abruptly into the sea, with areas like White Beach being a big tourist attraction showcasing these natural wonders. In contrast to the sheer cliffs on the west, the coast on the eastern side of the island has endless stretches of beach with sand and colourful rocks.

The island of Naxos was a cultural centre of classical Greece and Byzantium. Venetian and Frankish influences have also left their mark. Mt Zeus (1004m; also known as Mt Zas or Zefs) is the Cyclades’ highest peak and is the central focus of the island’s mountainous interior, in which you find enchanting villages such as Halki and Apiranthos.

There are numerous fine beaches and the island is a wonderful place to explore on foot, as many old paths between villages, churches and other sights still survive.

For a truly memorable experience, you will get the opportunity to step foot on to the ancient Temple of Demeter, dating back to 530 BCE and thought to be one of the oldest honouring the goddess Demeter, ruler of grains. You will also get the chance to venture towards the islet that houses the Portara, which offers a magnificent frame looking out towards Mediterranean sunsets. 

According to Greek Mythology, Delos was the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo, and today this 3km long uninhabited island is one vast archaeological site. Its remarkable monuments attract throngs of visitors who come to pay homage to a place that was once the cultural and religious centre of the Aegean. For the historical bunch, a visit to this island is necessary.

Leros is situated between Patmos, Lipsi, and Kalimnos in the Dodecanese islands. Leros, like most of the Greek islands, consists of small fertile valleys sandwiched between rolling green hills, deep coves and pretty beaches. The capital of Leros is Agia Marina: a collection of little white houses, neoclassical buildings, and narrow alleyways. Laki, Alinda, and Partheni are charming seaside villages and the perfect settings to go fishing. There are many picturesque tavernas and chic restaurants on every beach, and in the evening these hotspots come alive with buzzy locals.

Proceed to the bustling port of Kusadasi in mainland Turkey. Spend an afternoon on the quieter beaches just off the main strip, or shop for local handicrafts and Turkish designer clothes in the historic central neighbourhood of Kaleiçi. If you prefer you can enjoy cocktails in the Ottoman-built Kismet Hotel overlooking the Aegean before ditching the city in favour of one of the cute settlements that pepper the coast.

Half an hour outside Kusadasi, the Roman city of Ephesus is the most renowned of the neighbouring sights. One of the best-preserved Roman cities on the eastern Mediterranean, Ephesus was Rome’s major outpost in the region, and you could easily spend a day wandering the wide streets of the excavated city, from the colourful hillside mansions to the towering Library of Celsus.