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Arrival by train
The first day is purely for travelling, but it can be done without changing trains.
In the evening in Munich, there's time for a short stroll or dinner.
A long leg — factor in some breaks.
This is where your journey begins. From Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, you'll head south on the long-distance network.
A centrally located place to stay after the first long day of train travel, just a few minutes' walk from Sendlinger Tor. An ideal spot from which to continue relaxed the next morning towards the Alps and Italy.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
Crossing the Alps by train
One change of train in Verona, otherwise a relaxed journey.
Venice makes for a pleasant stopover before the ferry crossing.
A long leg — factor in some breaks.
A traditional establishment right opposite Santa Lucia station on the Grand Canal, ideal for train travel without having to lug your luggage far. In the evening, it's worth taking a walk through the quieter lanes away from the main routes.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
Crossing to the Mediterranean
Arrive at the terminal in good time before departure; check-in usually opens two hours beforehand.
The overnight ferry saves you a hotel night and takes you to Greece while you sleep.
A long leg — factor in some breaks.
From Ancona station it's just a few minutes to the ferry port, from where the big ferries to Greece depart. Allow plenty of buffer time for check-in; a bus or a short walk will get you to the terminal.
An overnight stay on board in an outside cabin on the ferry run by ANEK/Superfast or Minoan Lines. The crossing of the Adriatic and Ionian Sea is calm and makes for a relaxed start to your Greek adventure.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
On the Greek mainland
A quiet afternoon in Athens after the overnight ferry.
In the evening, a short walk to see the illuminated Acropolis from the rooftop terrace.
A long leg — factor in some breaks.
The ferry docks in Patras in the early afternoon. From the port, long-distance coaches (KTEL) take you directly and comfortably on to Athens.
Central hotel on Monastiraki Square with a view of the Acropolis, within walking distance of the old town and the metro. The perfect base for wandering through Plaka and for reaching the port of Piraeus the following morning.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
From the mainland to the Cyclades
Board early in Piraeus so you arrive on Naxos by the afternoon.
A first evening with a Portara sunset to set the mood.
A long leg — factor in some breaks.
Greece's largest ferry port, reachable directly from central Athens by metro. From here, both fast and conventional ferries depart for the Cyclades.
Family-run hotel in the Grotta district, just a few minutes' walk from the port and the Portara. A good base for the coming nights on Naxos, with views over the Aegean and easy access to the bus and the old town.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
The monumental marble gateway of a never-completed Temple of Apollo, standing on a peninsula just off Naxos Town. The short walk over the causeway is especially worthwhile at sunset, when the gate frames the sun.
Swimming and the old town
Old town in the morning, the whole afternoon for swimming.
Return by bus in the early evening, followed by dinner in Naxos Town.
The Venetian castle quarter above the old town, with winding lanes, small shops and old mansions. A leisurely morning stroll before heading to the beach.
A mile-long, fine sandy beach with shallow, clear water on the west coast of Naxos. There are quiet, unspoilt stretches as well as tavernas and beach bars, ideal for a whole day of swimming.
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Mountains, marble and kitron
Check the KTEL Naxos bus timetables in the morning, as connections into the mountains are limited.
Lunch in Apiranthos, followed by a relaxed journey back to Naxos Town.
The former main village in the green Tragea valley, with neoclassical houses and quiet lanes. Here you'll find the long-established Vallindras distillery, where the local lemon liqueur kitron is distilled and can be tasted.
A spectacular mountain village built entirely of marble, with paved lanes, small museums and far-reaching views over the mountains. The local tavernas serve hearty, down-to-earth food made with local ingredients.
Turquoise bays of the Small Cyclades
Only do the day trip if the sea is calm, as connections to the Small Cyclades depend on the weather.
Koufonisia is easy to explore on foot; bring your swimming gear and water.
The small island of Koufonisia is known for its Caribbean-like, turquoise water and fine sandy beaches such as Pori and Fanos. A short coastal walk links several bays, perfect for a relaxed day of swimming.
Changing islands
A short crossing, leaving a relaxed afternoon to settle in at Naoussa.
From the ferry port at Parikia, the KTEL bus runs regularly to Naoussa.
The charming fishing village in the north of Paros, with its Venetian harbour castle, whitewashed lanes and lively waterside tavernas. In the evening, the little harbour fills up, serving fresh fish and seafood.
Quiet hotel on the edge of Naoussa, just a few minutes' walk from the harbour and the beaches. A good base for the coming nights on Paros, with connections to the island bus.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
Sculpted rocks and water
A whole day of swimming — bring sun protection and water, as shade is limited.
Fish for dinner in the evening at Naoussa harbour.
A unique beach in the bay of Naoussa, where wind-smoothed granite rocks form little sheltered coves. The shallow, clear water and rocky landscape make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkelling.
The interior and Byzantine heritage
Lefkes in the morning with lunch, Parikia in the afternoon with the church.
Bus connections run via Parikia as a hub, so check timetables.
The most beautiful mountain village on Paros, nestled on a green hillside, with white houses, windmills and an impressive marble church. The small tavernas serve traditional food, and the old Byzantine cobbled path invites a short walk.
The Church of the Hundred Doors in Parikia is one of the most significant early Christian churches in Greece, with origins in the 4th century. The peaceful courtyard, the baptistery and the old icons make a visit here a quiet highlight.
Rest and a last swim
A deliberately quiet day with no fixed plans.
In the evening, pack your bags for the return ferry to Piraeus the next day.
The main town of Paros, with its white Cycladic architecture, small shops and a lively old harbour. A relaxed final day for strolling, having a coffee and taking one last dip in the sea.
Journey's end in Athens
The journey ends with an open finish in Athens, from where onward travel is flexible.
Check the ferry timetable in advance; there are several services a day in summer.
A long leg — factor in some breaks.
Quiet boutique hotel in the Plaka old town, easily reached by metro and on foot. A pleasant end to the journey, with Athens' old town right on your doorstep and easy connections for onward travel.
Booking ahead is often cheaper here
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