Cyclades Islands
Greece Bike + Barge Tours
Islands, Islands, & more islands! Discover Greece’s Cyclades & Saronic islands by bike & boat!
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from€2495 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
This bike and boat tour featuring the Cyclades Islands is everything that you dream and imagine when you think of Greece. Villages of gleaming white cubic houses with blue shutters and tile roofs climb the mountain sides and the hidden cobbled alleyways and lanes lead to local treasures.
The craggy coastline, the turquoise-blue sea, and fantastic sandy beaches, complete the dream.
The more than 30 islands were the cradle of the first European civilized society 5,000 years ago. The history is electric.
Experience the fascinating mixture between antiquity and modern times and absorb the beauty of the central archipelago of the Greek Aegean.
Dreams do come true.
Highlights
- Athens, the capital city of Greece
- Byzantine monastery of the Archangel Michael
- Peloponnesian Islands
- Ancient Epidauros with the best-preserved theater in Greece
All of our bike & boat tours in Greece can be found here.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Athens (Piraeus)
Day 2: Kythnos Island, 15 mi. (25 km)
Day 3: Seriphos Island, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 4: Siphnos Island, 12 mi. (20 km)
Day 5: Kea Island, 15 mi. (25 km)
Day 6: Poros Island, 14 mi. (23 km)
Day 7: Aegina Island, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 8: Piraeus/Athens, departureAll distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change, even on very short notice, due to changing wind and weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances having to do with mooring requirements, docking location changes, lock repairs, etc.
Day 1: Arrival in Athens (Piraeus)
Arrival at Athens airport and either taxi or optional transfer (supplement applies) to Marina Zeas, the yacht harbor of Piraeus, located 25 km (15 mi.) from Athens airport. Check-in begins at 2 pm on the ship. Dinner on board. Overnight mooring in Piraeus.Day 2: Kythnos Island, 15 mi. (25 km)
A morning cruise to Kythnos Island begins your day. You will think that you have stepped into perfection! The cycling itinerary, offering beautiful views of the coastline, will start in the harbor of Merichas and lead to capital of the island, Chora. Chora is an appealing village, situated on a high plateau. Its angular alleys are decorated with painted flowers and geometric patterns. Then the cycle route leads to Driopida, a picturesque village. In the afternoon, back on board, you will navigate to Siphnos for a relaxing time at the beach. Afterward, you return to Merichas and can spend the evening hours in one of the quaint taverns.Day 3: Seriphos Island, 19 mi. (30 km) - Syros Island
The boat takes you to Seriphos, a small island well off tourist radar, with deep valleys, countless bays and coves, and lots of beautiful sandy beaches. From the harbor town of Livadi, you will cycle a serpentine road to the main town of Seriphos, whose cube form houses nestle along a mountain ridge high above the sea. Continuing on through untouched landscape to the Byzantine monastery of the Archangel Michael, you will return to Livadi along a panoramic road on the East coast. You will then sail to Syros in the afternoon where you can stroll through the breathtaking old town and end the day in one of the numerous cafes on the spacious harbour promenade.Day 4: Syros Island, 21 mi. (34 km) – Kea Island
The town of Ermoupolis on Syros is the capital town of the Cyclades and offers an unforgettable view upon arrival: The town which is built on two hills is different from the other Cycladic towns. You will enjoy a scenic view of the pastel-colored houses that dominates the townscape. You will cycle along the coast of Syros, passing through the bays and coves along the entire southern half of the island and onto the beach of Galissas. Cycling back to Ermoupolis, you will pass by the convent of Saint Barbara. Finally, to end the day, you will sail to the island of Kea.Day 5: Kea Island, 15 mi. (25 km)
Kea is the third most inhabited island in northwestern Cyclades You begin in the beautiful natural harbor of Korissia and cycle uphill to the capital of the island, Loulis, with its beautiful white sand beach, the perfect place for swimming. In the afternoon, back on board, the boat crosses to Poros in the Saronic Gulf. The harbor city of Poros is truly spectacular. Its iconic clock tower juts out above the rest of the town and provides a true Greek island atmosphere. Overnight mooring in Poros City.
Day 6: Poros Island, 14 mi. (23 km)
Cycle first to the Zoodochos Pigis monastery which dates back to the 18th century and then the route basicially circles the entire island, known as the island of Poseidon. Russian Bay, a sandy beach with turquoise blue water, is the perfect place for a swim break. Back in Poros City, the boat waits with a delicious midday meal to enjoy as you navigate to Aegina.Day 7: Aegina Island, 22 mi. (35 km)
On the Island of Aegina, the bike tour takes you up to the Sanctuary of Aphaia. The incredibly well-preserved temple towers high above the blue of the sea in the single point of Aegina where the Aegean Sea can be seen on both sides. On the way back, you cross the middle of the island past the monastery of Nektarios to Aegina City here you board the boat for your last cruise back to Piräus. Enjoy the last evening meal on board together in the company of friends, guides, and crew and reflect on the wonderful experiences of the week.Day 8: Piraeus/Athens (Disembarkation)
Disembark after breakfast for your departure or an extended stay in Athens.*Please note: the Cyclades are relatively susceptible to wind. Normally this results in only a minor modification of the route. The alternative route leads into the Argosaronic Gulf, one of the most historic regions of Greece. You will cross between the Greek mainland and the Peloponnesian to discover the islands of Egina, Poros, Hydra, Spetses, and the Methana peninsula. A highlight of this journey is a visit to the ancient Epidauros with the best-preserved Greek theater.
If you’re looking for a different flavor, check out our full list of bike & boat tours or view all our featured tours & trips including hiking, multi-adventure, & many other active vacations.
Map
Boats & Bikes
- Thalassa
Premium Class Sailing Ship
Touring BicyclesElectric Bicycle (E-bike)![]()
Cube Nature or exclusively designed trekking bike* … • Step through or horizontal bar (diamond frame) aluminum frame … • Upright riding position … • Selle Royal comfort gel saddle … • Shimano gearing… Read MoreAccessories![]()
Orbea, Cube, or FLEX ebike* … • Pedelec … • Aluminum step-through frame … • Upright riding position … • Shimano gearing … • 8 speeds … • Bosch motor and power pack … • Comfort gel saddle … •… Read MoreChildren’s Bicycles and Accessories![]()
All bikes are equipped with a pannier bag. These are considered waterproof, however, please note that we can’t be held responsible or any damage that might be caused to any personal belongings like… Read More![]()
Suitable equipment is provided for children. • For children between 100 to 150 cm tall, 20-24 inch bikes are available. These bikes are equipped with faultless derailleur gears, brake systems, a… Read MoreThe premium ship Thalassa, formerly known as Bahriyeli A, combines pure elegance with great comfort. With its high rising masts, it is an impressive sight in the harbor and navigating the seas. Read More
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodations for 7 nights onboard the Thalassa
- Breakfast
- 2 days with all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) & 5 days with breakfast & lunch or dinner
- Touring bicycle rental with pannier
- Overview maps for daily routes
- Entry fees to museums & archaeological sites
- Bed linen & towels
- English speaking tour guide
What’s Not Included
- Drinks on board
- Meals ashore
- Bottled water: €25 for adults, €15 for children up to age 16 (flat rate to be paid on board)
- Beach towel for ashore
- Airport transfers (available with supplement)
- Tour extensions (see Extra info + pricing)
- Gratuities for tour guide & crew
- Bicycle protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
2023
Premium Class
Thalassa
Saturday departures
April 22, April 29, May 6, May 13, May 20, May 27, June 3, June 10, June 17, September 2, September 9, September 16, September 23, & September 30, 2023
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2023
Twin cabin* $ 4086 £ 2186 $ 3,663 € 2495 ₪ 10023 ¥ 381119 NZ$ 4502 NOK 29882 kr 29637 $ 2,743 Supplement for twin cabin/single use** $ 1310 £ 701 $ 1,174 € 800 ₪ 3214 ¥ 122202 NZ$ 1444 NOK 9581 kr 9503 $ 880 *Only twin-bed cabins are available on this boat.
**The single supplement can be avoided if you are willing to share your cabin with someone of the same gender.
Children's discounts are available
Extra Options
Electric bike
Limited number available: $ 164 £ 88 $ 147 € 100 ₪ 402 ¥ 15275 NZ$ 180 NOK 1198 kr 1188 $ 110
Transfers
Transfers to/from Athens airport (price is per person, each way): $ 57 £ 31 $ 51 € 35 ₪ 141 ¥ 5346 NZ$ 63 NOK 419 kr 416 $ 38
Transfer to/from boat and any hotel in Athens: $ 33 £ 18 $ 29 € 20 ₪ 80 ¥ 3055 NZ$ 36 NOK 240 kr 238 $ 22
Above transfers are available on embarkation/disembarkation day only.
Exclusive transfers can be arranged. Just ask!
Extra nights in Athens
Pricing on request and dependent on the season.
(3* Hotel Philippos or Hotel Pan, or 4* Hotel Herodion )
Three-day extension in Athens
3 star: $ 753 £ 403 $ 675 € 460 ₪ 1848 ¥ 70266 NZ$ 830 NOK 5509 kr 5464 $ 506
Single room: $ 1130 £ 604 $ 1,013 € 690 ₪ 2772 ¥ 105400 NZ$ 1245 NOK 8264 kr 8196 $ 759
4 star: $ 917 £ 491 $ 822 € 560 ₪ 2250 ¥ 85542 NZ$ 1010 NOK 6707 kr 6652 $ 616
Single room: $ 1294 £ 692 $ 1,160 € 790 ₪ 3174 ¥ 120675 NZ$ 1425 NOK 9461 kr 9384 $ 869
Four-day extension in Santorini
Standard room: $ 1130 £ 604 $ 1,013 € 690 ₪ 2772 ¥ 105400 NZ$ 1245 NOK 8264 kr 8196 $ 759
Single room: $ 1818 £ 972 $ 1,629 € 1110 ₪ 4459 ¥ 169556 NZ$ 2003 NOK 13294 kr 13185 $ 1,220
Deluxe room: $ 1261 £ 675 $ 1,130 € 770 ₪ 3093 ¥ 117620 NZ$ 1389 NOK 9222 kr 9147 $ 847
Single room: $ 1981 £ 1060 $ 1,776 € 1210 ₪ 4861 ¥ 184831 NZ$ 2183 NOK 14492 kr 14373 $ 1,330
Four-day extension in Mykonos
3-star:
Standard room: $ 1163 £ 622 $ 1,042 € 710 ₪ 2852 ¥ 108455 NZ$ 1281 NOK 8503 kr 8434 $ 781
Single room: $ 1752 £ 937 $ 1,571 € 1070 ₪ 4298 ¥ 163446 NZ$ 1931 NOK 12815 kr 12710 $ 1,176
Deluxe room: $ 1359 £ 727 $ 1,218 € 830 ₪ 3334 ¥ 126785 NZ$ 1498 NOK 9941 kr 9859 $ 913
Single room: $ 2080 £ 1113 $ 1,864 € 1270 ₪ 5102 ¥ 193996 NZ$ 2292 NOK 15210 kr 15086 $ 1,396
4-star:
Standard room: $ 1785 £ 955 $ 1,600 € 1090 ₪ 4379 ¥ 166501 NZ$ 1967 NOK 13054 kr 12948 $ 1,198
Single room: $ 2735 £ 1463 $ 2,452 € 1670 ₪ 6709 ¥ 255097 NZ$ 3013 NOK 20001 kr 19837 $ 1,836
Deluxe room: $ 2080 £ 1113 $ 1,864 € 1270 ₪ 5102 ¥ 193996 NZ$ 2292 NOK 15210 kr 15086 $ 1,396
Single room: $ 3390 £ 1813 $ 3,039 € 2070 ₪ 8316 ¥ 316199 NZ$ 3735 NOK 24792 kr 24589 $ 2,276
Extra Info
Skill Level — Moderate
This is a moderate, guided bike and boat tour, requiring a high level of fitness. The daily distances range from 12 to 22 miles (18 to 35 km) and lead through hilly or mountainous areas. The roads are mostly asphalted. You can always choose to skip a bike tour and spend the time sunbathing on the ship instead. The Cyclades are relatively susceptible to wind and can result in modification of the tour route. In strong winds, the route may be markedly different.
Airport Info
Fly to Athens, Leftherios Venizelos International Airport (ATH).
Local Travel
An organized transfer can be arranged to/from the Athens airport or hotel to the boat for an additional fee on embarkation and disembarkation days. Please see pricing for details. If you are interested in an earlier transfer, please ask!
Climate
The islands on this tour have a Mediterranean climate. Summer, from June to mid-September, is hot and sunny. The Meltemi, the wind from the north-west, blows by mid-May, cooling the air. Typically, the maximum temperatures remain around 30 °C (86 °F); occasionally, short periods of intense heat can occur. Be sure to check local conditions just prior to your departure.
Day of Rest
You can always remain on board and spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Recommended
Extra time in Athens!
Remarks
Minimum number of participants: 14
Maximum number of participants: 18Before making air travel arrangements, confirm that the minimum number of participants has been met.
Helmet use is mandatory on all bike tours. You are strongly encouraged to bring your own (well-fitted) helmet. Helmets are available on board in limited number (on request).
Important to know
Travel Documents
It is each traveler's responsibility to research travel requirements and to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, blank visa pages required for your destination (s), and any other requirement.
US citizens: A good website to research the requirements of the Schengen Agreement and other countries is travel.state.gov.
Non-EU citizens: Please research the requirements of your country of residence for international travel and the destination country.
EU-citizens: (without special situations like dual citizenship, main residence abroad or a limited-validity passport) are required to have a valid passport or ID-card, not expiring within six (6) months from the end of your tour.
*Please check status of European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) as once implemented will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.
Additional information regarding transfers
All airport transfers require a reservation with exact flight details. Please inform us well in advance of departure (and of course after your reservation and departure are confirmed.)
For the smooth execution of airport transfers, please send us the following data:
- Arrival date and departure date
- Departure or arrival airport
- Airline and flight number
- Estimated arrival or departure time
For hotel transfers please send us the following information:
- Date of transfer
- Exact hotel address
- Preferred transfer time
Covid-19 Info
Country Entry Requirements
Due to the changing requirements for entry, it is imperative that you stay up to date on requirements set by the country/countries that you are visiting. Please visit our Travel Restrictions Tool page and the country/countries government webpage for this information.
Extra Stay
EXTRA NIGHTS
Book extra nights pre or post-tour at the 3-Star Hotel Philippos or 4-Star Hotel Herodion in Athens.THREE DAY PRE OR POST TOUR EXTENSION IN ATHENS
The 2004 Olympics changed the face of the bustling metropolis of Athens. Large parts of the city center are converted into pedestrian areas and a generous archaeological was created, which extends from the Acropolis to the ancient Agora and Kerameikos, the old pottery and cemetery district. Unforgettable is a walk through the many winding streets of the Plaka, the charming old quarter, where you can buy not only souvenirs of all kinds, but should also make yourself comfortable in one of the countless cafes. Explore history as well with a visit to the Acropolis!Includes
- 2 nights in Athens in a 3-star hotel or 4-star hotel in the center of Athens
- Taxi transfers: airport - hotel as well as hotel - ship
- Entrance to the Acropolis
- 1 dinner in the wonderful traditional tavern, TO Kafenio restaurant(without drinks) in the old town of Plaka
- 1 guided city bike tour ATHENS BY BIKE (three-hour tour, English-speaking tour guide, coffee or soft drink included)
- All state taxes
Hotels used for this extension package are either the 3-star Hotel Pan, 3-star Hotel Philippos, or the 4-star Hotel Herodion all located in Athens.
FOUR DAY PRE OR POST TOUR EXTENSION IN SANTORINI OR MYKONOS
We can provide more detailed information on request!
.
SANTORINI: Enjoy the dreamy Aegean Sea island of Santorini with this four-day extension program. This offers you the ability to enjoy organized activities such as a kayaking tour through the caldera or a wine tour at sunset, as well as individual leisure activities. The selected hotels are directly connected to the island’s public transportation system, so you can easily reach all the island’s major attractionsMYKONOS: This four-day extension program in Mykonos is a great extension to your tour. Take time to explore Mykonos further with additional activities to choose from.
Includes- 3 nights accommodation on Santorini or in Mykonos (similar hotels will be booked depending on availability)
- Daily breakfast
- Taxi transfers between Santorini Airport/Santorini ferry port & your hotel (SANTORINI)
- Taxi transfers between Mykonos Airport/Mykonos ferry port & your hotel (MYKONOS)
- Guided kayak tour, sunset wine tour, or culinary Caldera walk. (One is included in tour price, you decide! )(SANTORINI)
- Kaiki cruise to Rhenia & Delos, Jeep Safari in Mykonos, or a cooking class in a traditional Mykonian house. One is included in tour price, you decide.(MYKONOSI)
- Tourist Information
- All land taxes
Excludes
- Journey to/from Santorini/Mykonos
- Lunch & dinner
- Entrance fees to sights & attractions
- Activities other than those mentioned under included services
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Island Hopping.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
Photos
![Famous windmills above Mykonos on Mykonos Island, Greece. Flickr:Ira Gelb]()
![Traditional Greek food on board ship. Cyclades Islands Greece bike tour.]()
![City Hall, Miaoulis Square, Ermoupolis, Syros Island, Greece. Flickr:Lucian Niculescu]()
![Overlooking Spetses, Cyclades Islands, Greece.]()
![Mykonos Island windmills at sunset, Cyclades Islands, Greece. Flickr:Hassan Rafeek]()
![Biking Poros Island, Greece.]()
![From boat to bike in Spetses, Cyclades Islands, Greece.]()
![Taxis await on Hydra Island, Cyclades, Islands, Greece.]()
![View of Athens, Greece. Flickr:Jose Nicdao]()
![Cycling views on the Cyclades Islands bike tour.]()
![Mid-ride Greek snack of falafel and fries perhaps. Flickr:Ben Ramirez]()
![Blue and white architecture on Mykonos Island, Greece. CC:Joanbanjo]()
![Green figs in Greece, so good! Flickr:Oleve Family Estate and Products]()
![Traditional Greek food on board the Panagiota, Cyclades Islands bike tour.]()
![Windmill on Hydra Island, Greece.]()
![View of the Acropolis from the Museum in Athens, Greece. Flickr:Phanatic]()
![Flag of Greece. Flickr:Ana Raquel Shernandes]()
![Ready, set, bike in Palea-Epidavros, Cyclades Islands, Greece.]()
![One of the ships, this one the Bahriyeli that does this tour.]()
Reviews
Renee B.
8 months agoVerified Reviewer
Ruth Ann M.
4 years agoVerified Reviewer
Catherine G.
5 years agoVerified Reviewer
Tripsite Customer Reviews
Ruth Ann M.
4 years ago
Verified Reviewer
Catherine G.
5 years ago
Verified Reviewer
Related Tours
Moderate–Difficult Bike + Boat Tour in Greece
Welcome to Greece's Ionian Islands and your bike and boat tour in paradise! The fertile and lush landscape, fragrant with olive and pine, bursting with vineyards, is the backdrop for your cycling…
