Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

4.5/5 (4)
7 nights
17 miles/day
Guided from EUR € 3044
Countries: Greece
Rider Level: Recreational Electric bike tours Bike and boat tours

Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

4.5/5 (4)

Rider Level: Recreational Electric bike tours Bike and boat tours

7 nights
17 miles/day

Guided from EUR € 3044
Bike and Boat Tour aboard Erato or Thalassa
Countries: Greece

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  • An island-hopping adventure in Greece by e-bike and boat, exploring the sublime Cyclades and Saronics

    The Cyclades and Saronic Islands are a group of over 30 stunning Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, boasting ancient Greek architecture, picturesque towns, and breathtaking beaches. With a sumptuous blend of history and natural beauty, these islands offer an authentic glimpse into Greece's past and present.

    An island-hopping tour by e-bike and boat allows visitors to explore the staggering beauty of the Cyclades and Saronics, from the glittering white cube houses to the turquoise ocean. Discover the tranquil coves, beaches and deep valleys of Seriphos, the picturesque pastel houses of the Cyclades, and the sumptuous honey and cheeses of Kythnos. Grand architectural structures ignite the imagination along the way, including the Monastery of Taxiarches and the Temple of Aphaia. These islands are not only the cradle of European civilization, but also a region where visitors can learn of the Greek Liberation Struggle.

    An electric bike tour to these enchanting islands promises an unforgettable experience, leaving you with a deep appreciation for their pristine beauty and historical significance.

    • Syros, Greece. Kaspars Eglitis@Unsplash
    • Temple of Aphaia, Greece. Scott McLeod@Flickr
    • Syros, Greece. Elizabeth Kokkoni@Unsplash
    • Temple of Aphaia, Greece. Dennis Jarvis@Flickr
    • Cyclades windmill, Greece. Wolfgang Staudt@Flickr
    • Syros, Greece. Giorgios Savidis@Unsplash
    • Cyclades, Greece. Dimitris Kiriakakis@Unsplash
    • Greek street, Cyclades, Greece. Laura Adai@Unsplash

    View more photos

    Highlights

    • Kythnos Island, famous for its honey and cheeses
    • Seriphos Island, characterized by coves, beaches, and deep valleys
    • Cube houses of Seriphos
    • Monastery of Taxiarches
    • Picturesque Syros
    • Pastel houses of Cyclades
    • Kea Island, Korissia, Otzias Beach, and Poros
    • The Temple of Aphaia

    Learn More

    Interested in adding to your itinerary? Take a look at our cycling day tours in Athens.


    Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

    Photos 

  • Traveler photos

    •  (photo by Aldonna Harner)
    •  (photo by Aldonna Harner)
    •  (photo by Aldonna Harner)
    •  (photo by Aldonna Harner)
    • Meals on board beautifully presented (photo by Carolyn Clubine)
    • New friends (photo by Carolyn Clubine)
    • Villages and small towns (photo by Carolyn Clubine)
    • Cycling site seeing is the best kind (photo by Carolyn Clubine)
    • Erato (photo by Sandra Spekman)
    • Our group of 11 riders (photo by Sandra Spekman)

    Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

     Tour Description Daily Program 

  • Daily program

    Day 1: Arrival in Athens
    Arrive in Athens, 'The Glorious City' renowned for being the seat of Ancient Greek civilization and the country's classical capital. Embarkation is from the Marina Zeas/Piraeus for Thalassa. Marina Alimos/Palaia Faliro for Erato at 2:00 pm. Enjoy your first dinner on board and an overnight stay in awe-inspiring Athens.

    Day 2: Kythnos Island | Piraeus - Merichas - Chora - Merichas (15 miles/25 km)
    Enjoy a serene early morning cruise to captivating Kythnos, known since antiquity for its sumptuous honey and cheeses. Your first cycling tour on this Greek island will start from the harbor of Merichas in the direction of the capital - Chora. Situated on a high plateau, Chora is a beautiful town commanding grand views over the sea and coastline. Cycling through Chora's streets is like gliding through an art gallery - the town's alleyways are adorned with intricate floral and geometric decorations that dazzle the eyes and delight the artistic senses. Pedal onwards to discover the dreamy village of Driopida before making your way back to Merichas, where you'll enjoy an evening spent in one of the charming tavernas.

    Day 3: Seriphos Island | Livadi - Seriphos - Syros (17 miles/28 km)
    Cruise to Seriphos in the morning, a lesser-explored island of sensational natural beauty boasting countless coves, bays, and breathtaking beaches. Cycling from the lovely harbor town of Livadi, you'll weave your bicycle along the snaking road to Seriphos, the island's main town. Seriphos is known for its iconic cube houses whose geometric formations glimmer in the Greek sunlight. You'll see these unusual houses all along the mountain ridge overlooking the sea.

    Continue biking through untouched island landscapes towards the Monastery of Taxiarches, built in honor of the Archangel Michael. You'll be dazzled by the monastery's pristine white walls, complete with crenellations that give this structure its castle-like appearance. Enjoy panoramic views as you pedal back to Livadi, ready to meet the boat and cruise to Syros. Upon arrival on the next island, enjoy a relaxed stroll through the stunning Old Town before winding down at a lovely cafe along the harbor promenade.

    Day 4: Syros Island | Ermoupolis - Galissas Beach - Kea (21 miles/34 km)
    Today's brilliant biking adventure takes you to Ermoupolis, the capital of the Cyclades. This spectacular town, built on two hills with phenomenal ocean views, is known for its picture-perfect pastel-color houses, a captivating and uplifting spectacle. You'll enjoy the cycle along the beautiful coast of Syros, punctuated by pristine bays and coves, until you reach the breathtaking beach at Galissas. From here, you'll explore the Monastery of Saint Barbara before pedaling back to Ermoupolis. In the afternoon, hop back on board as your boat cruises to Kea Island.

    Day 5: Kea Island | Korissia - Ioulis - Otzias Beach - Poros (15 miles/25 km)
    You'll be captivated by Kea from the moment you disembark in the natural harbor of Korissia. Cycle to the island's capital, Ioulis, before enjoying a spectacular swim off the white sand beach of Otzias. Back at Korissia, board the boat to Poros in the Saronic Gulf where you'll be greeted by the grand sight of Poros' iconic clock tower. Relax in this fabulous town tonight, fully immersed in the idyllic island atmosphere of the Saronics.

    Day 6: Poros Island | Zoodochos Pigis Monastery - Russian Bay - Poros - Aegina (14 miles/23 km)
    Begin your day with a morning bike tour from Poros to the intriguing Zoodochos Pigis Monastery, dating back to the 18th century. Your route today is almost a complete loop of this spectacular little island, dedicated during ancient times to the sea god Poseidon. Ride to Russian Bay for a blissful swim in the warm azure waters of the Aegean Sea, then pedal back to Poros. Savor a lovely midday meal before your boat sets off to Aegina.

    Day 7: Aegina Island | Temple of Aphaia - Agios Nektarios Church and Monastery - Aegina - Piraeus (22 miles/35 km)
    Today's picture-perfect bike tour explores an island famous for its pistachio nuts! On Aegina Island, you'll cycle up to the beautiful Temple of Aphaia, a grand Doric temple reminiscent of the ancient Parthenon. The views from this location are unrivaled - the temple is situated on the only point of the island where the alluring Aegean Sea can be seen on both sides.

    As you make your way back to the boat, cycle to the Agios Nektarios Church and Monastery in the middle of the island, a site visited by thousands each year seeking healing and blessings from one of the most widely-known Greek Orthodox saints. Back on board the boat for the last time, cruise back to Piraeus to enjoy a lovely communal dinner with your crew and fellow passengers.

    Day 8: Departure from Athens
    After breakfast, check out and embark on your individual journey home. If flying out of Athens Airport, ensure your flight departs in the afternoon.


    Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

     Photos Accommodation 

  • Accommodation

    Boats

      Erato

      The Bordeaux-red beauty, the Erato, literally meaning "desired" or "lovely", will be your elegant accommodation as you explore the Cyclade and Saronic Islands. Enjoy your stay in the teak clad cabins which offers ample space, en-suite bathrooms, as well as ample storage for your luggage. Read more

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        Overview

        • Elegant motorsailer
        • Cabins clad in fine wood
        • Cozy salon which boasts a well-stocked bar
        • Comfortable outdoor seating
        • Friendly and attentive crew
        • Delicious Greek cuisine served on board
        • Daily cabin service with mid-week towel and bedding change
        • Two masts with sails
        • Elegant wooden interior
        • Shaded sundeck with cushioned benches, deck chairs, large tables and chairs

        Thalassa

        The Thalassa is a stunning three-mast motor sailing ship where comfort is combined with elegance. A standout in every harbor, the Thalassa's masts give the ship an air of great majesty. Read more

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          Overview

          • Cozy saloon
          • Sun deck
          • Stern access
          • Quiet generator
          • Sunning mats for the sundeck
          • Upholstered benches at the stern
          • Large tables and chairs for the deck

        Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

         Daily program Bikes 

      • Bikes

        Bikes available on this tour (not included in tour price, must be reserved at time of booking):

        • Electrically assisted bike* (9-speed CUBE or similar)

        *More about electrically-assisted bikes

        All above bike rentals will be equipped with the following at no additional charge:

        • Ortlieb pannier

        Bike Protection:
        Bike protection can be purchased at the time of booking. You can read more about that HERE.

        Helmets:
        It is required to wear helmets on this tour. In order to guarantee optimum protection, we request that you bring your own helmet and - for your own safety - wear it on all bike tours. A limited number of helmets are available on board to rent, at the time of booking, though it is highly recommended to bring your own helmet.

        Please note: Guests are more than welcome to bring their own bike along. However, be aware that we are not insured for the private bikes on board and that all maintenance of private bikes are the responsibility of the owner. Additionally, it is important for us to know if the private bikes are standard models, MTBs or e-bikes. Onboard of our boats we have a weight restriction of 22 kg for all private bikes (excluding batteries) for health and safety reasons. Bikes above this weight will not be accepted on board for daily use!


        Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

         Accommodation Dates & Prices 

      • Dates & Prices

        Questions about pricing or options? Call +1-215-613-0874 to talk to a Tour Advisor now.

        Thalassa
        Apr 25; May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Jun 6, 13; Aug 22, 29, Sep 5, 12, 19, 26, 2025

        Season A: Apr 25 | May 2
        Season B: May 9 | May 16
        Season C: May 23 | May 30 | Aug 22
        Season D: Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 29 | Sep 5 | Sep 12 | Sep 19 | Sep 26

        Erato
        May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Jun 6, 13; Aug 29; Sep 5, 12, 19, 26; Oct 3, 10, 2025

        Season B: May 2
        Season C: May 9 | May 16 | Oct 10
        Season D: May 23 | May 30 | Oct 3
        Season E: Jun 6 | Jun 13 | Aug 29 | Sep 5 | Sep 12 | Sep 19 | Sep 26

         

        Included services

        • 7 nights aboard motorized yacht with crew
        • Cabin with private facilities
        • Electric bike
        • 2 days of full-board (all meals) and 5 days of half-board (two meals)
        • Bottled mineral water on board and during all activities ashore
        • Guided bicycle tours and sightseeing as described in the itinerary
        • Overview maps for the daily bike tours on board
        • Entrance fee to museums and archeological sites (group visit only)
        • Bed linen and towels
        • English-speaking tour guide

        Tour Company


        Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

         Bikes Other Details 

      • Surface and terrain

        The tour routes lead you through some hilly, mountainous terrain with some longer climbs. E-bikes are available, and you are also welcome to take breaks and push the bike. The tour takes place on mostly asphalted roads.


        How to get there

        Tour start and end

        Nearest airport: Athens El. Venizelos Airport (ATH)

        From Athens Airport, the port of Piraeus (your embarkation point) is only 15 mi/25 km away. Private transfers are available - please enquire.


        Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

         Dates & Prices Tour Reviews 

        • Aldonna Harner 3 months ago

          First trip to Greece

          We greatly enjoyed this tour. It was our first time using e-bikes and that made the rides very enjoyable. The crew was very professional and prepared delicious meals also. Our guides, Mary Lou and Isabel did a wonderful job sharing history and guiding us through the five Islands we visited. They were a joy to spend time with and very professional as well. We enjoyed getting to know the other couples on board as we shared our meals and rides together. Although some high winds prevented us from going to all of the islands listed in the tour, I can highly recommend it just the same.

          What was the date of your tour?
          September 2024
          How many tours have you completed?
          2
          Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
          Somewhat easier
          Do you recommend this tour?
          Yes
          •  (photo by Aldonna Harner)
          •  (photo by Aldonna Harner)
          •  (photo by Aldonna Harner)
          •  (photo by Aldonna Harner)
          • 5/5 Value
          • 5/5 Included meals
          • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
          • 4/5 Hotels or boat
          • 5/5 Scenery
          • 5/5 Ease of navigation
          • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)
        • Carolyn Clubine 6 months ago

          Eclectic Greece experience

          What a great way to see this beautiful country. The Erato crew provided us with a one of a kind holiday experience. Great food , accommodations on board and a wonderful tour of some special gems on the islands. Our guide was exceptionally attentive and so very knowledgeable

          • Meals on board beautifully presented (photo by Carolyn Clubine)
          • New friends (photo by Carolyn Clubine)
          • Villages and small towns (photo by Carolyn Clubine)
          • Cycling site seeing is the best kind (photo by Carolyn Clubine)
        • Sandra Spekman 6 months ago

          Fun bicycle trip in Greece

          Our guide was terrific! I'd give him a 10 out of 10. There were problems on the boat (Erato). 1) Shower door wouldn't close.
          2) Light over bed didn't work. 3) There was moisture from the air conditioning unit made all of the clothes in this closet drenched every night. 4) The air conditioner in our room barely worked. We would wake up to a sweat because it was very hot in our room.
          We were given some wrong information: We were told to bring a beach towel. They had beach towels onboard. We were told to bring soap and shampoo. They had soap and shampoo onboard.

          • Erato (photo by Sandra Spekman)
          • Our group of 11 riders (photo by Sandra Spekman)
        • Glenn Schroeder 7 months ago

          Great crew and bike guide

          We had a really great time on the trip. Our guide, Dionesis was fantastic in every way. The food was wonderfully prepared and served. We enjoyed great service. The boat was very clean and comfortable. Our cabin was big enough for the two of us. The high winds did prohibit us from being able to go to the Cyclades Islands, which was disappointing but we did go to other places in the Saronic Islands that were nice. It was also disappointing that we never sailed. When we asked, the captain said that the winds were too low or the passage was too short. I sensed that the crew wasn’t trained to sail the boat. Again, one of the reasons we chose this trip was to sail. We also spent 2 nights of the 7 in the home port in Athens. This area is not very interesting and again was disappointing.

          What was the date of your tour?
          May, 2024
          How many tours have you completed?
          2
          Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
          As expected
          Who is this tour suitable for?
          First-time bike tourists
          Do you recommend this tour?
          Yes
          • 3/5 Value
          • 5/5 Included meals
          • 5/5 Bikes + equipment
          • 4/5 Hotels or boat
          • 5/5 Scenery
          • 4/5 Ease of navigation
          • 3/5 Tour documents
          • 5/5 Guides (if applicable)

        Enchanting Cyclades and Saronic Islands

         Other Details Book this tour