Santorini-Naxos-Paros-Athens Itinerary, feedback appreciated!
Feb 9th, 2011, 04:36 PM
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Santorini-Naxos-Paros-Athens Itinerary, feedback appreciated!
I think I've got it! I've been trying to fine tune my itinerary for my Greece trip in late May, early June. I would really appreciate anyone who would like to comment, or suggest an alternative route. We have a few hostels in mind for each location but have not booked anything and am up for suggestions!
Day 1 Arrive in Athens, Fly to Santorini
Day 2 Santorini
Day 3 Santorini
Day 4 Santorini, Ferry to Naxos
Day 5 Naxos
Day 6 Naxos
Day 7 Naxos
Day 8 Naxos, Ferry to Paros
Day 9 Paros
Day 10 Day Trip to Delos
Day 11 Paros
Day 12 Ferry to Athens (or fly?)
Day 13 Athens
Day 14 Delphi
Day 15 Athens
Day 16 Athens
Day 17 Fly Home
Thank you in advance!
Day 1 Arrive in Athens, Fly to Santorini
Day 2 Santorini
Day 3 Santorini
Day 4 Santorini, Ferry to Naxos
Day 5 Naxos
Day 6 Naxos
Day 7 Naxos
Day 8 Naxos, Ferry to Paros
Day 9 Paros
Day 10 Day Trip to Delos
Day 11 Paros
Day 12 Ferry to Athens (or fly?)
Day 13 Athens
Day 14 Delphi
Day 15 Athens
Day 16 Athens
Day 17 Fly Home
Thank you in advance!
Feb 9th, 2011, 08:51 PM
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Ditto! Good time allocation.
If you want suggestions for lodgings at each stop, please give your budget range in Euros (here's a good currency-conversion link - http://www.xe.com/ucc/
When you say "hostel" you do mean hostel, right? That means u are looking for rooms in the €20-€30 price range in the islands? and what? maybe 50€ in Athens?
I can't give you anything that cheap. But maybe 50 in Santo, 35-40 in Naxos/Paros, 60 in Athens for non-hostel accoms, good lcations, pvt bath etc.
Budget range important otherwise u are settng up a guessing game.
If you want suggestions for lodgings at each stop, please give your budget range in Euros (here's a good currency-conversion link - http://www.xe.com/ucc/
When you say "hostel" you do mean hostel, right? That means u are looking for rooms in the €20-€30 price range in the islands? and what? maybe 50€ in Athens?
I can't give you anything that cheap. But maybe 50 in Santo, 35-40 in Naxos/Paros, 60 in Athens for non-hostel accoms, good lcations, pvt bath etc.
Budget range important otherwise u are settng up a guessing game.
Feb 10th, 2011, 08:10 AM
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That makes me feel good knowing that two Greece lovers approve of my itinerary! Sorry, yes when I said hostel I did mean hostel. €20-€30 sounds about right although we have seen some that are almost outrageously cheap, $15 - $20 CDN. Youth Hostel Oia looks like beautiful hostel and I've been leaning towards spending our time on Santorini in Oia.
One question, I am torn between flying from Paros to Athens or taking the ferry. Any opinions on which you prefer and why? I'd like the "experience" of taking the ferry but it seems like it would eat up so much of our time.
One question, I am torn between flying from Paros to Athens or taking the ferry. Any opinions on which you prefer and why? I'd like the "experience" of taking the ferry but it seems like it would eat up so much of our time.
Feb 10th, 2011, 08:30 AM
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The ferry/flight choice was clarified beautifully by another regular (Heimdall?). It depends on where you're going upon arrival.
If you are going to be leaving immediately, via rental car, for some mainland destination... then the flight will be most efficient. If you're heading for a hotel in Central Athens, ferry is just as fast. All you have to do is add up the time elements.
Ferry = get to the dock 20-30 minutes after departure, walk on board. Upon arrival, cross street to Metro Green Line, 30-minute ride, 1.3?€. Taxi = daytime about €18-20 on meter, after midnight weekdays, about 2x this. (find a fellow ferry-goer to split costs).
Plane = must arrive 45+ minutes ahead, check bags, security check-in. On Arrival, wait for bags, go to bus or Metro outside building, wait for next one, 1 hour to Central Athens, or taxi at flat rate of €35 day, €50 after midnight.
The Blue Star ferry is a great ride -- the best experience, modern, quite fast, You can sit out on deck & sunbathe, watch the wake, then go inside to nap (u are supposed to have a "reserved economy" ticket to sit on inside numbered seats, but at your travel time ferry will be 50%-70% full, so u can 'usurp' an unsold seat ... except on perhaps a sunday). its daytime ferry runs 11 am - 3 pm. Its "sunset ferry" is about 7:30- 11:30 pm.
If you are going to be leaving immediately, via rental car, for some mainland destination... then the flight will be most efficient. If you're heading for a hotel in Central Athens, ferry is just as fast. All you have to do is add up the time elements.
Ferry = get to the dock 20-30 minutes after departure, walk on board. Upon arrival, cross street to Metro Green Line, 30-minute ride, 1.3?€. Taxi = daytime about €18-20 on meter, after midnight weekdays, about 2x this. (find a fellow ferry-goer to split costs).
Plane = must arrive 45+ minutes ahead, check bags, security check-in. On Arrival, wait for bags, go to bus or Metro outside building, wait for next one, 1 hour to Central Athens, or taxi at flat rate of €35 day, €50 after midnight.
The Blue Star ferry is a great ride -- the best experience, modern, quite fast, You can sit out on deck & sunbathe, watch the wake, then go inside to nap (u are supposed to have a "reserved economy" ticket to sit on inside numbered seats, but at your travel time ferry will be 50%-70% full, so u can 'usurp' an unsold seat ... except on perhaps a sunday). its daytime ferry runs 11 am - 3 pm. Its "sunset ferry" is about 7:30- 11:30 pm.
Feb 10th, 2011, 11:35 AM
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Well, Heimdall, myself I always pay the €4 reserve fee now, for a few years I didn't even know about the "reserve economy" fare, (these forums weren't around) just went and sat, then got caught on a Sunday inbound, with 4 travel pals, who were pretty cranky about sitting in straight chairs in a crowded corridor ... after that I've always bought the reserve .... but, for tightwads, I just say ... and actually if u buy the plain Vanilla ticket & get on & it looks getting crowdy, find a steward & ask t upgrade. Of course, if all reserved-seat (all 1,000+ are sold, then too bad!!
Feb 10th, 2011, 11:56 AM
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Well, compared with the cost of getting to Greece, I've never worried much about paying an extra €4 for reserved seats. I used to sneak into places when I was a teenager, but those days are long behind me. Considering the current state of the Greek economy, it seems churlish to suggest ways to avoid paying for what you use.
Feb 10th, 2011, 04:27 PM
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hi donnaandspence,
Although I enjoy the heimdall v. travelerjan banter, I'll return to your question. The ferry is my preferred route back to Athens from Paros. It tears you away from beautiful Paros more romantically and gently. Stand on the back deck as the ferry backs away from the dock in Parakia, crosses the harbor and rounds the point. I cannot imagine leaving the islands in any other way than by ferry. I also think you have a very good manageable itinerary. Good for you for doing the research to set up what promises to be a great trip. Enjoy!
Although I enjoy the heimdall v. travelerjan banter, I'll return to your question. The ferry is my preferred route back to Athens from Paros. It tears you away from beautiful Paros more romantically and gently. Stand on the back deck as the ferry backs away from the dock in Parakia, crosses the harbor and rounds the point. I cannot imagine leaving the islands in any other way than by ferry. I also think you have a very good manageable itinerary. Good for you for doing the research to set up what promises to be a great trip. Enjoy!
Feb 20th, 2011, 08:41 PM
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Hi all..
I'm currently in stages of trying to plan where we will stay on each of the islands. I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions as to which area to stay in (so I can narrow down my hostel search). Like I have said previously, ideally we would like to spend between 20€ - 30€. (I realize this might not be possible in Athens.) We are not looking for anything fancy. Our main priorities are cleanliness, and being able to walk to beaches, restaurants, etc as we would like to do the majority of our travelling by foot.
For our trip to Delphi, would anyone suggest staying overnight in Delphi or just taking a day trip by bus?
In Santorini, we have looked at staying in Oia (specifically the Youth Hostel Oia that brotherleelove suggested). I know this is not near the beaches, but I've heard it is well worth it to stay somewhere with a nice view of the caldera.
In Naxos we've looked at the Pension Sofi (near Chora), Irini Studios in Agia Anna, as well as Windmill Naxos in Ifimthias.
In Paros, looked at Pension Rena in Parikia, as well as Hotel Frangiscos Inn in Livadia Parikia (is this the same area?)
If anyone would like to share some suggestions, it would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
I'm currently in stages of trying to plan where we will stay on each of the islands. I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions as to which area to stay in (so I can narrow down my hostel search). Like I have said previously, ideally we would like to spend between 20€ - 30€. (I realize this might not be possible in Athens.) We are not looking for anything fancy. Our main priorities are cleanliness, and being able to walk to beaches, restaurants, etc as we would like to do the majority of our travelling by foot.
For our trip to Delphi, would anyone suggest staying overnight in Delphi or just taking a day trip by bus?
In Santorini, we have looked at staying in Oia (specifically the Youth Hostel Oia that brotherleelove suggested). I know this is not near the beaches, but I've heard it is well worth it to stay somewhere with a nice view of the caldera.
In Naxos we've looked at the Pension Sofi (near Chora), Irini Studios in Agia Anna, as well as Windmill Naxos in Ifimthias.
In Paros, looked at Pension Rena in Parikia, as well as Hotel Frangiscos Inn in Livadia Parikia (is this the same area?)
If anyone would like to share some suggestions, it would be greatly appreciated, thanks in advance!
Feb 20th, 2011, 10:32 PM
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The Youth Hostel Oia has a sunset view but it doesn't have a view of the caldera.
I've stayed at Alexandra's Rooms in Parikia. My room was very clean and spacious with a fridge, TV, A/C and coffee maker. There was ample hot water with amazing water pressure in the shower.
I've stayed at Alexandra's Rooms in Parikia. My room was very clean and spacious with a fridge, TV, A/C and coffee maker. There was ample hot water with amazing water pressure in the shower.
Feb 21st, 2011, 02:30 AM
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Hi
The Hotel Frangiscos Inn's website states that it is 400m from the port. This is in Parikia, old town. The locality of Livadia is scenic and has a safe, kid friendly beach. Looking at the photo gallery on their website if the rooms are 30E for a double inclusive of the use of a pool it strikes me as good value. Another cheapie is Anna Platanous Hotel - http://www.annaplatanou.gr - but I don't know much else about it.
In Athens try the well located Pella Inn - http://www.pella-inn.gr. Easy to get to from the ferry port. A shared double will get you near budget. Ask for a room with a view of the Acropolis.
The Hotel Frangiscos Inn's website states that it is 400m from the port. This is in Parikia, old town. The locality of Livadia is scenic and has a safe, kid friendly beach. Looking at the photo gallery on their website if the rooms are 30E for a double inclusive of the use of a pool it strikes me as good value. Another cheapie is Anna Platanous Hotel - http://www.annaplatanou.gr - but I don't know much else about it.
In Athens try the well located Pella Inn - http://www.pella-inn.gr. Easy to get to from the ferry port. A shared double will get you near budget. Ask for a room with a view of the Acropolis.
Feb 21st, 2011, 03:50 AM
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Hi donnaandspence,
Since you are looking for hostel range room rates, I have a suggestion which always works for me. But first of all let me say, although I have never stayed there, the Youth Hostel in Oia seems a good suggestion. I <i>have</i> stayed at Stelios Rooms in Oia, and it may be a good choice if you are looking for rock-bottom prices with a caldera view. Personally I was disappointed with the upkeep of the room, but it does have a great view.
Now, for Naxos and Paros, the best prices are to be found when you get off the ferry. Reserve a room in advance and you will be locked into the full seasonal prices, but when you get off the ferry there will be room owners willing to bargain. I have done this everywhere I've travelled in the Cyclades (except Santorini), and it never fails. By late May - early June nearly all the hotels on the islands are open, but capacity is geared to high season demand, so there are many vacant rooms.
When bargaining for rooms find out as much as you can about location, and ask to be shown where the hotel is located on a map. It will help if you have done your homework and know a little about the geography of each island. If you agree to a room, you will even get a free ride there, but can still walk away if you don't like what you see. <i>That is real island-hopping</i> — finding your room when you get to an island, and buying your ferry tickets when you are ready to move on. It may sound scary at first, but it is liberating to not be slaves to a timetable
As a footnote, June 10-13 is Pentecost weekend, when ferry travel and rooms are in higher demand than at other times in June. Ferries leaving Piraeus and Rafina on Friday and Saturday morning will be busy, as will ferries returning to the mainland on Monday. Other days and routes won't be a problem. It may be a good idea to book rooms on the islands if you are travelling that weekend, but not essential.
Since you are looking for hostel range room rates, I have a suggestion which always works for me. But first of all let me say, although I have never stayed there, the Youth Hostel in Oia seems a good suggestion. I <i>have</i> stayed at Stelios Rooms in Oia, and it may be a good choice if you are looking for rock-bottom prices with a caldera view. Personally I was disappointed with the upkeep of the room, but it does have a great view.
Now, for Naxos and Paros, the best prices are to be found when you get off the ferry. Reserve a room in advance and you will be locked into the full seasonal prices, but when you get off the ferry there will be room owners willing to bargain. I have done this everywhere I've travelled in the Cyclades (except Santorini), and it never fails. By late May - early June nearly all the hotels on the islands are open, but capacity is geared to high season demand, so there are many vacant rooms.
When bargaining for rooms find out as much as you can about location, and ask to be shown where the hotel is located on a map. It will help if you have done your homework and know a little about the geography of each island. If you agree to a room, you will even get a free ride there, but can still walk away if you don't like what you see. <i>That is real island-hopping</i> — finding your room when you get to an island, and buying your ferry tickets when you are ready to move on. It may sound scary at first, but it is liberating to not be slaves to a timetable
As a footnote, June 10-13 is Pentecost weekend, when ferry travel and rooms are in higher demand than at other times in June. Ferries leaving Piraeus and Rafina on Friday and Saturday morning will be busy, as will ferries returning to the mainland on Monday. Other days and routes won't be a problem. It may be a good idea to book rooms on the islands if you are travelling that weekend, but not essential.
Feb 21st, 2011, 07:49 AM
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Thanks for all of the suggestions wow!
Heimdall - great advice! This is exactly how my boyfriend would like to travel, I on the otherhand seemed a bit hesitant for the mere fact that it DOES seem a bit scary. However, I have heard this before about bargaining with room owners so knowing that a number of people do this, does make me feel more comfortable. Perhaps it would be smart of me to only book our first night or two nights in Santorini and than leave the rest open.
We will be leaving Vancouver on May 24th, arriving in Athens on May 25 and then flying straight to Santorini. We will be leaving Paros June 6th so I hope I will not be affected by the Pentecost weekend.
Also, I should have been more specific, our budget is 20€ - 30€, per person.
Heimdall - great advice! This is exactly how my boyfriend would like to travel, I on the otherhand seemed a bit hesitant for the mere fact that it DOES seem a bit scary. However, I have heard this before about bargaining with room owners so knowing that a number of people do this, does make me feel more comfortable. Perhaps it would be smart of me to only book our first night or two nights in Santorini and than leave the rest open.
We will be leaving Vancouver on May 24th, arriving in Athens on May 25 and then flying straight to Santorini. We will be leaving Paros June 6th so I hope I will not be affected by the Pentecost weekend.
Also, I should have been more specific, our budget is 20€ - 30€, per person.
Feb 21st, 2011, 08:39 AM
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Glad I could help. Yes, book your nights on Santorini, and also for Athens at the end. I've been to Delphi, but only on a day trip, so can't help with accommodation there. <i>It is a bit scary</i> the first time you island-hop without reservations, but once you have done it you will wonder why you ever worried. Just remember, room and ferry capacity are geared for July and August. If rooms and ferries were full in late May and early June, where would they put all those extra people who come during high season? ;-)
You will be fine for the May 25 - June 6 period — Pentecost weekend won't affect you at all.
The room owners meeting the ferries usually carry portfolios with photos of the rooms, location maps, etc. Sometimes it's a bit hectic with everyone competing for your attention, but don't be rushed into making a decision. I usually ask what is their rate for one night, then when they tell me, ask what they will charge if I stay longer. They are normally happy to give you a reduced price for 2-3 nights or more. Most accommodation on offer will be twin-bedded rooms with private bath/shower. If you want to save a little money by preparing some of the meals in your room (breakfast, sandwiches for lunch, etc.) ask for a studio, which is a room with kitchenette.
You will be fine for the May 25 - June 6 period — Pentecost weekend won't affect you at all.
The room owners meeting the ferries usually carry portfolios with photos of the rooms, location maps, etc. Sometimes it's a bit hectic with everyone competing for your attention, but don't be rushed into making a decision. I usually ask what is their rate for one night, then when they tell me, ask what they will charge if I stay longer. They are normally happy to give you a reduced price for 2-3 nights or more. Most accommodation on offer will be twin-bedded rooms with private bath/shower. If you want to save a little money by preparing some of the meals in your room (breakfast, sandwiches for lunch, etc.) ask for a studio, which is a room with kitchenette.
