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Greece travel blog — the fullest greece travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

Greece is a land of mysterious and brilliant beauty in the Mediterranean Region. Traveling to Greece will give you many new looks and discoveries of the land of Gods in Greek Mythology, the world’s most beautiful islands with stunning beaches nowhere has, the ancient cities with rich history and culture, the magnificent and sacred temples in the past along with countless renown sculptures. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Greece for the first-time visitors? Let’s check out our Greece travel blog (Greece blog) with the fullest Greece travel guide (Greece guide, Greece tourist guide) from how to get there, best time to visit, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

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Greece is not only has beautiful beaches, distinctive architecture and delectable cuisine but also is an affordable destination for any type of visitor. Greece is known as one of the cheapest tourist destinations in Europe. The traveling cost here is only about a half compared to other European countries. It is one of the most popular and beloved destinations worldwide. With beautiful islands, historic cities, signature Greek Myths make Greece more mysterious and shining in the eyes of tourists.

Greece travel blog: Overview of Greece

Greece, the official name is the Greek Republic also called the Hellenic Republic, is a country owns a strategic position in trading between Asia, Europe and Africa continents. With an area of ​​more than 130,000 square kilometers with a population of over 10 milions people and mostly rugged mountainous terrain, Greece is bordered by Albania, the Republic of Macedonia and Bulgaria to the north, Turkey to the east and the rest of the east and the west is bordered by the Aegean Sea and the Ionian Sea. With its prime location, since ancient times Greece has been considered a cultural exchange hub of many cultures.

As the country with the most brilliant civilization in antiquity, Greece is the cradle of all Western cultures, including Western democracies, Western philosophy, Olympic Games, Western literature, historic, politics, basic scientific and mathematical principles. The rich history of Greece includes 17 UNESCO Heritage Sites, among the top countries with the most heritage in Europe. Greek is the mother tongue and also the national language, through a long history Greece also has many different languages, but today’s common languages ​​such as English, French, Italian, German is still widely learnt and used. Greece is a religiously free country, in which Eastern Orthodox being the largest with 97% of the population, followed by Islam and Roman Catholicism as well as Protestantism and Judaism.

Greece is a Southern European nation, but in many documents, it is also listed in the list of Western European nations or in the Baltic region. Due to its geographical location, Greece has been considered a trading center for many economies for thousands of years.

With a coastline of more than 13,000 km. The “specialty” of this country is more than 140 inhabited islands (out of a total of 3,000 islands from large to islets which are as small as just rocky outcrops), of which Crete is the largest Greek island with a sunny climate and nice beaches. Therefore, Greece is an ideal vacation destination for Europeans.

Most of the Greek people speak Greek and it is also the official language of this country. One thing I’m quite bored that is despite being a tourist nation, Greek people speak English very bad, even they could not speak.

Greece travel blog: When to visit?

Greece has a fairly warm Mediterranean climate. Summers are usually hot and dry, especially in the north, on the islands and coastal regions. Winters are usually humid in the south, but in the mountainous regions in the north, it’s very cold and it’s not too hard to see snow and feel sub-zero temperatures here.

The best time to visit Greece is from early July to early September. And if you want to take the most virtual photos, sightseeing, admiring unique architecture, you should go in June or the end of September to early October which will be suitable because the weather will not too hot and the trip cost is also inexpensive.

Spring (April – May): April is time when the tourist season begins in Greece, locals begin to take off their winter coats to welcome the warm sunshine. The weather at this time will be extremely pleasant.

With the exception of the period around Easter, you can rest assured that the number of tourists coming to Greece in the spring will not too crowded. Spring is also a great time for you to explore this country by motorbike.

In Athens, the festival of light and sound is also held in the spring.

Summer (June – August): Summer is usually warm, sunny. It’s also the peak tourist season with very crowded travellers, especially in the coastal areas or on the famous islands like Santorini , Mykonos or Crete.

Thanks to the large number of tourists, in every bar or nightclub in Greece, there will be lively parties. However, in popular tourist destinations, prices will often double.

The Athens and Epidaurus Festival will take place in this summer.

An important thing to note, especially when you plan a trip to islands such as Samothraki (Samothrace) or Thassos (Thasos), is that these two islands only welcome tourists from July to August.

Autumn (September – October): After the blazing sun of summer, autumn comes as a relief, when it comes with more pleasant weather. Daphni Wine Festival is also an experience not to be missed in this period. The summer tourists have also gone away, leaving behind a more traditional and peaceful Greece. Prices will also come down a lot, but some tourist amenities and facilities may be closed.

In October, the weather can also get wet and unpredictable. Autumn is the perfect time to visit the historic sights of Greece.

Winter (November – March): Thanks to its geographical location, winters in Greece are not too harsh but actually extremely unpredictable, you will be completely surprised by a few days of winter with full of sunshine and warm but suddenly snow falling after several days.

Winter is the low season for tourism, leading to a marked drop in prices, but you will not have the opportunity to visit many islands dute to lack of vehicles to get there.

However, the southern part of Crete or Rhodes island still welcomes you with open arms. Christmas is also a wonderful occasion in Greece with countless cultural events are held.

Greece travel blog: How to get to Greece?

From other european countries.

Greece in particular and other European countries in general all have very convenient transport links. From neighboring countries, Greece can be reached by train and by car. But it is the most convenient to get to Greece by plane. But one matter is that airfare from other European cities to Greece is quite expensive.

I tried to find airfare on Google and found out that the airport fees in Greece are higher and there are few airlines operating flights to Greece. Therefore, you should hunt for flight tickets early through some websites such as Skyscanner , Google Flight , Kayak and avoid the peak months of July and August.

Greece blog: Transportation in Greece

There are many means of transportation in the Greek cities for you to choose from, but mostly visitors who come here often choose taxis, buses or rent motorbikes to getting around.

Bus: Domestic buses are the best solution when traveling within the country.

Train: It’s a good and cheap way to get around, but the national rail system is quite limited.

Or if you want to explore the tourist attractions here by yourself, then you can rent a self-driving vehicle such as: Scooter, ATV, car with rental prices ranging from 12 Euros to 15 Euros/day. However, to rent a car conveniently, you have to an international driver’s license, credit card or passport to make a deposit.

Getting from the mainland to the Greek islands

Because Greece has many islands, the means of transportation will be mainly ferries and boats. To take a ferry trip, it will cost about EUR36, but you will only pay about EUR12 if islands are really close together. If you book ferry tickets about two months in advance, you can save up to 25% on the cost of ticket.

From Athens, most ferries to Greek islands cost around EUR60. The ferry tickets will be expensive if you take a lot trips between islands. Taking overnight ferry can save you up to half of the normal price plus you will save a hotel night because of overnight on ferry. Slow ferries, night ferries starting at EUR13. Some famous Greek ferry companies you can refer to such as Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, Seajets… You should choose the trip that departs at dawn or dusk because the scenery is very beautiful at that time.

Alternatively, you can also take a plane. Traveling by airplanes will be more convenient and there are now many islands in Greece that welcome international flights, but the cost will be higher than taking a ferry.

Greece travel blog: What to do and where to go?

When it comes to Greek tourism, everyone will probably think of two famous places are Athens and Santorini. In addition to the above two historic, dreamy and charming destinations, Greece has many other attractive tourist destinations such as Thessaloniki City, Zakynthos, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes islands, ancient temples, stunning beaches… I will briefly introduce about these tourist destinations in Greece below.

Parthenon Temple

Along with other historic structures on the Acropolis Hill, it is one of the most visited archaeological sites in Greece. The temple of Athena, the Parthenon was built in the 5th century BC. It is the most famous building of ancient Greece that still standing until now and is hailed as a great achievement of Greek architecture with magnificent appearance along with majestic and towering stone pillars. If you have an opportunity to visit Athens, the temple definitely will be a must-visit place.

Corfu (Kerkyra)

Corfu is one of the jewels of Greece, famous for its vast coastline, spectacular mountain scenery, majestic historic architecture, peaceful villages and vibrant cultural centers. Come and explore the part of the Ionian Islands, a group of islands off the west coast of mainland Greece.

You’ll find the influence of diffirent styles from British, French, Greek and Italian in Kerkira (Corfu City), the island’s charming cultural hub. Admiring a British neoclassical beauty in the Palace of St. Michael and St. George, and don’t be surprised to see the Venetian style emblazoned on the Old Fort. Visit Liston Promenade to see archways and explore ancient Asian art at the Museum of Asian Art of Corfu. Visit the nearby Gastouri and marvel at the Achilleion, a majestic palace set among numerous cypress and sugar cane trees.

City of Heraklion

Heraklion, with its warm sunshine, cool breezes, wine and great range of local food which is truly a peaceful place to stop and explore ancient culture.

The city of Heraklion – the capital of Crete Island, Greece bears traces of many historical events in the past. Heraklion also known as Iraklion, is the largest city on Crete island and also the 4th largest city in Greece. Here, you can find the ruins of the famous palace of Knossos, the largest concentration of population on Crete during the Minoan civilization period (Bronze Age Aegean civilization). Although there is no archaeological evidence, Knossos may have also had a seaport located at Heraklion from 2000 BC.

The capital of Crete owns picturesque villages, romantic seaside resorts and beaches of varying beauty. Heraklion also has many restaurants and taverna specializing in Greek cuisine to meet all needs and preferences of visitors. The nightlife here is very vibrant. There are many bars and nightclubs open all year round.

In addition, Heraklion is also the shopping center of the Corfu with many shops selling clothes, shoes, jewelry, souvenirs…

The capital city of Athens

As one of the oldest capitals in the world, Athens welcomes you with a massive treasure of history and culture dating back 3000 years. Unlike the peaceful tourist islands in this country, Athens is much more vibrant, crowded and bustling. The places you cannot miss when visiting this ancient city are Ruins of Acropolis, Byzantine And Christian Museum, Temple of Olympian Zeus, the neighborhood of Pláka and Anafiotika. The most famous is the Acropolis, an ancient citadel with many historic and important buildings, especially the Parthenon Temple.

There are also the Temple of Zeus, Temple of Hephaestus, the ancient Square of Kotzia and National Garden. Leaving Athens and you can visit the birthplace of the Olympic Games, the sacred mountain of Olympia where there also are still many well-restored and preserved temples.

Read more: The fullest Athens travel guide for the first-timers.

If there is any place in the world that closest to paradise, it definitely is the Greek island of Santorini. With houses painted in two main colors, blue and white – also the same typical colors on Greece’s flag. Santorini will attract visitors just at the first sight. Known for its breathtaking steep cliffs that hug the black sands of the sea, the island of Santorini is located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 200km to the east of mainland Greece. The two nicest villages of Fira and Oia are two places you have to visit if you want to fully enjoy the beautiful scenery of this island. Looming in the vast ocean are villages and churches arranged ingeniously.

Visitors often flock to Santorini the most from April to October. Because the weather is sunny, the clear blue sky allows you to participate in many interesting, fun outdoor activities. Another very unique experience you should not miss that is watching the sunset here because Santorini dubbed one of the most sunset viewing spots in the world.

Read more: The fullest Santorini travel guide for the first-timers.

The island of Mykonos is a counterweight to Ibiza, Spain. The highlight of this Greek island is its long beaches filled with healthy tanned tourists and the pounding bass from the bars that open from night to morning. Chora in Greek means city, is another name for this small island belong Cyclades Islands. Although this is the smallest island, it contains an attraction that is not inferior to large islands such as Santorini or Naxos. Proof that the upper class often owns resort apartments here and we can easily see them on the cobblestone streets of Mykonos.

Read more: The fullest Mykonos travel guide for the first-timers.

The island of Rhodes is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece with great beaches and a long history. Located in the Aegean seawaters near the coast of Turkey, Rhodes is the largest island of the Dodecanese Islands. Rhodes is also considered one of the most beautiful islands of Greece with lush pine forests and countless brilliant flowers such as bougainvillea, hibiscus, etc.

If you are a fan of the movie Descendants of the Sun, you are no stranger to the beach where the shipwreck was stucked that called Shipwreck Beach. That is the island of Zakynthos, Greece. The highlight and most attractive spot of Zakynthos is the Navagio Shipwreck Beach. In the midst of the blue water and surrounds by majestic cliffs, a boat ran aground on a beautiful white sand beach, seemingly comes straight out from movies.

Read more: The fullest guide to Zakynthos for first-time visitors.

Naxos is not crowded with tourists and is a great place to watch the sunset and sunrise without having to climb to the top of any mountain. Just go to the beach and lie on the sand, you can enjoy watching the brilliant of sunrise or sunset.

In Naxos, there is a legal nude beach, so if you like swimming, you should come to try. I stayed in Naxos for 6 days and spent a lot of time walking up to the very old unexplored houses that in my opinion they are much more beautiful than in Santorini. I also rented a car to riding around the mountains, visited many ancient ruins here. Driving in Greece is very safe and Google Map also navigates very accurate, you can rest assured to drive by yourself as long as you have an international driver’s license, you can rent a car from EUR30 / day depending on the type of car.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece and the capital of the Macedonia region of Northern Greece, with its vibrant festivals, social events and vibrant nightlife. All making it becomes the cultural capital of Greece. The city is steeped in Paleochristian (Early Christan) culture and was the hometown of Alexander the Great. Thessaloniki is both modern and classic with many tourist attractions in the city such as museums, art galleries, business district, famous Byzantine wall, White Tower and Turkish baths and Colorful food markets.

Although it was partly damaged by a great fire in 1917, the city was restored and still retains its characteristic Byzantine architecture. That is why in Thessaloniki you can find a harmonious blend of modernity and ancient features.

The town of Mystras

Traveling to Greece you must definitely visit the town of Mystras and and Archaeological Site of Mystras – a UNESCO World Heritage Site once because this was the center of power of the Byzantine Empire. The town stands out for its distinct architecture from the Middle Ages, where it was ruled by powerful empires for centuries. In the town of Mystras, there are many historical ruins which are kept and recognized as world cultural heritages such as Byzantine churchs, monastery and Keadas Cavern cave.

Often referred to as the most beautiful city in Greece, Nafplio was once the capital of Greece before the title was given to Athens in 1834.

Where to visit Greece? If you are still wondering, come to Meteora. Located in the vast plains, Meteora is a spectacular rocky mountain that captivates many visitors. At the top of the mountain there are many ancient monasteries. This is also the coordinates of the view that cannot be more wonderful. Today, Meteora has been recognized by UNESCO as a world heritage site.

Located just below Mount Parnassos (Mount Parnassus), Delphi is a cultural center of Greece and the birthplace of Western Philosophy. Delphi was considered the center of many aspects of the world in ancient times. In addition, thanks to possessing cultural and religious heritages, today Delphi has become a tourist attraction.

Greece blog: Where to stay?

Hotels in Greece are very diverse and spread from the mainland to the islands, from luxury hotel chains to budget guesthouses and hostels. There are also large and fully equipped campsites.

You can stay in a dorm with bunk beds to save money, or stay in a hotel for a higher price. In the center of the big city, the room rates is about EUR70/night, far from the center, about EUR40/night. You can also stay at a homestay but need to find out in advance where you will stay to have the most comfortable holidays.

Check out top and best hotels, places to stay in Greece on Agoda , Booking or Airbnb.

Greece travel blog: What to eat?

Thanks to its favorable geographical location, Greek cuisine is influenced by many different cuisines. It is a combination of European and Middle Eastern cuisine, making the dishes here have the most distinctive flavor.

However, because of its location, some Greek dishes can be easily found in other countries such as Moussaka, Baklava for example (2 these dishes are also typical dishes in Turkey or Cyprus).

Greeks use much olive oil for most dishes, even salads are also mixed with olive oil (of course adding with a little spices).

Stifado (Greek Stewed Beef)

This is one of the most delicious stew and best dish in Greece. The main ingredients of the dish include meat (often beef or pork, rabbit, even octopus), red wine, red wine vinegar, onion, shallots, cinnamon, honey, olive oil, bay leaves, etc. All are stewed for 2 hours. Stifado is most flavorful when served hot with fresh bread, pasta, and mashed potatoes.

Dolmadakia (Stuffed Grape Leaves)

Dolmadakia is a dish you should not forget to try. This dish is cooked from rice, adding a mixture of minced meat, herbs, parsley, mint, tomato, fennel… All is wrapped in grape leaves then simmer in 45 minutes until the rice is tender and served with lemon.

Moussaka (Greek Beef and Eggplant Lasagna)

Moussaka is perhaps the most famous Greek dish in the world with variations in flavor in each region of this southern European country. In some islands, moussaka is cooked with a more herbal in recipe, while others cook this dish with a rich and greasy flavor. Despite the difference in taste, the basic ingredients of this dish: potatoes, eggplant, ground meat and lots of cheese, béchamel sauce still remain the same. After baking for 1 hour at 350 degrees Celsius, the cake will have an eye-catching golden brown color. Today, thanks to creativity, chefs use zucchini to replace eggplant. That change will add more deliciousness to the dish.

Souvlaki (Chicken skewers)

This is very popular dish in Greece. Souvlaki is a grilled skewer of meat, delectable and juicy. Souvlaki skewers usually include beef, lamb and chicken, sometimes also fish such as swordfish. It usually eaten while still hot.

Gyro (Gyros)

Referring to the delicious food in Greece, it is impossible not to mention Gyro. It made from meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie (often pork, chicken, whilst beef, lamb) combines with vegetables, chips. Then is wrapped in soft flatbread like tacos. There are two types of Gyro, vegetarian and meat. Gyro is a very suitable food to recharge after a day of exploring Greece.

Lokma (Loukoumades, Fried Sweet Dough)

Loukoumades is a popular dish in Greece. Not only children but also adults love to enjoy this dish. Loukoumades are pastries made of leavened and deep fried dough, soaked in syrup or honey. After baked, the chef will sprinkle cinnamon powder, walnut powder to increase the attractiveness of the dish.

Spanakopita (Greek Spinach Pie)

Spanakopita is a Greek savory spinach pie, a very famous and divine cake in Greece. The pie has a thin crust but is very crispy. The filling is made from ingredients such as spinach and feta cheese, meat, eggplant, vegetables, etc. The dish is made with flaky phyllo sheets layered.

Tzatziki (Greek Cucumber Yogurt Sauce)

Tzatziki is a dipping dish with the main ingredient of Greek yogurt and a variety of herbs, served with meat, bread and salad.

Frappé coffee and Greek yogurt

Frappé coffee is a great choice on hot summer days. While Greek yoghurt is also a must-try food, Greek yoghurt is very delicious, it usually served with honey.

Greece travel blog: What and where to buy?

The capital of Athens offers many shopping options for visitors with Syntagma square and Plaka area being the number one choice. Located right in the heart of Athens, these two areas are truly endless fun for those with a passion for shopping. Here, you can choose very unique gifts. The Greek Evil Eye Xematiasma Belief (Greece Mati Mataki or Matiasma Evil Eye) which could againts evil that any tourist who comes here also buys and hangs at home. Statues depicting gods from Greek myths, Trojan horses, goddess Helena or pottery, jewelry in antique style crafted with the skill of Greek artisans are lovely gifts from this country.

In the Greek plains there are many lush olive groves. The Greeks are also very proud of olives and the cosmetics and dishes made from this tree. You can buy olive oil or soap as gifts for loved ones. Laurel is the national tree of Greece and was used as a laurel wreath for ancient sports champions.

And for those of you who collect magnets, in Thessaloniki, you can buy Alexander the Great magnets that are hard to find in other Greek tourist attractions.

In the souvenir shops in Greece, they often sell key chains with the image of “the precious of men”. You also buy it as gifts.

Greece blog: The traveling cost

In general, the cost of self-sufficient travel to Greece is quite affordable, I spent €552.72 for the 5D4N trip with 2 destinations of Athens and Santorini.

In which, the cost of traveling (airfare) accounts for the majority. If you intend to plan a trip to Greece, you should find airtickets in advance to save money.

The cost of food and accommodation is quite affordable. And if you are a student, you will get FREE or discounted entrance tickets to some tourist attractions.

Greece blog: Before you go

Here are some useful tips you should push in your pocket before making a trip to Greece.

Communication Culture

Greeks are usually very hospitable and friendly. If you’re meeting them for the first time, they’ll shake hands firmly, making eye contact and smile throughout the meeting. If they are friends or relatives, they will hug and kiss on both cheeks. If they were men, they would greet each other with a pat on the shoulder.

Gift-Giving Etiquette

The Greeks often give gifts to friends and family members on the occasion of naming saints, Christmas. On birthdays, gifts don’t need to be too expensive. If you give a gift of great value, it will make the recipient awkward.

If you are invited to dinner, prepare a small, carefully wrapped gift. The Greeks had a custom of opening gifts right in front of the giver’s eyes.

Table Manners (Dining Etiquette)

If you are invited to dinner, be on time. That will show respect to the host. After the meal, take the initiative to ask to be cleaned, the host will appreciate this attitude of yours.

If the host has not invited you, do not arbitrarily sit at the table. Because the Greeks will usually arrange for you a separate seat. When eating, they use a knife in their right hand and a fork in their left hand. Elderly people will have priority service. When eating, the elbow should be placed below the table, the hand should be on the table.

During dinner you can comfortably talk about fun stories but avoid political issues, especially the relations between Greece and Turkey.

This is also a country that uses the Euro currency like other European countries. Should use cash rather than credit cards when making purchases. You will be charged a small fee for withdrawing Euros from ATMs in Greece. Many small islands in Greece do not have ATMs or if they do, you also may not withdrawn, so you should have cash on hand.

Greece travel blog: My suggested Greek 5-day itinerary for you to refer.

According to my self-sufficient Greek travel experience, you should spend 4 or more days (excluding flight days) to explore 2 destinations, Athens and Santorini. You can spend another 2 days to visit more cities of Thessaloniki, Mystras or Zakynthos or Mykonos islands.

However, I think that exploring 2 destinations are Athens and Santorini is enough, because these 2 places are enough to represent 2 types of Greek tourism (sea and island tourism and discovery tourism). Adding one more island or discovery place will quickly get bored.

Here is my Greece travel itinerary for you refer:

Day 1: Santorini (arrival at night) Day 2: Santorini Day 3: Santorini Day 4: Santorini – Athens (you can go to Mykonos or Thessaloniki from here) Day 5: Athens – The UK

In addition, the tours often combine Greece and Turkey in one itinerary, because these two countries are close to each other. And you can use a valid Schengen visa to apply for a Turkish e-visa, which is very convenient. About travel experiences in Turkey, you can see more here .

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in and from Athens you can refer to

• Private Athens International Airport (ATH) Transfers for Athens
• Private Athens International Airport Transfers (ATH) for Athens by Taxi or 7 Seater Car
• Shared Athens International Airport Transfers (ATH) for Athens
• Delphi Day Tour from Athens
• Athens Acropolis and Cape Sounio One Day Tour with Lunch
• Athens Half Day Sightseeing Tour
• Meteora Day Tour from Athens with Train
• Delphi and Meteora 2-Day Tour from Athens
• Athens, Acropolis and Acropolis Museum Half Day Tour with Ticket
• Athens and Acropolis Walking Day Tour
• Cape Sounion & Temple of Poseidon Half Day Guided Tour From Athens
• Athens Hop On Hop Off City Sightseeing Bus Tour
• Athens Acropolis Museum Discovery Tour

Are you looking for more Greece travel guide and top things to do in Greek destinations, check out here .

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The Perfect Greece Itinerary for 2024 – Written by a Local

Planning a Greece itinerary? It sounds like the perfect Mediterranean escape to me!

Greece is a travel destination that offers blue skies, sunny climes, and charming culture all year round.

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This article features a Greece travel itinerary to suit every taste. There is something for you here, whether you want to simply lounge around on the pristine beaches of idyllic islands, or you are eager for adventure and exploration.

Greece Itinerary Highlights

• Visiting Athens , the birthplace of modern civilisation
• Sampling mouthwatering Greek delicacies and learning how to make them
• Visiting mysterious cliff-top monasteries and traversing along scenic hiking trails in Meteora and Central Greece.
• Lounging on the pristine sandy beaches, and wandering through the narrow streets of quaint old towns on beautiful Greek islands.
• Discovering forgotten Byzantine settlements in Lakonia and the Peloponnese
• Falling in love with the charming neighbourhoods of Thessaloniki
• Conquering scenic hiking trails through Zagorahoria, and Northern Greece

When to Travel to Greece

Many people associate Greece with being a summer travel destination. However, the country is a wonderful year-round destination. The best time for you to travel will vary depending on your specific interests.

Spring (March to May)

Spring and Autumn are the shoulder seasons for travelling in Greece. The temperatures are warm and pleasant. They typically range between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius during this time.

Weather conditions in Spring are perfect for hiking in Greece . Travelling to Greek cities at this time gives you the chance to experience their historical and archaeological highlights without the crowds.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Greece is swelteringly hot. Temperatures often soar as high as 35-40 degrees Celsius in July and August.

The conditions may be perfect for Greek island hopping and lazing on paradisical beaches. However, hiking and extended outdoor exploration can be unbearable in the heat and humidity.

Most people tend to plan their Greece vacations for July and August. Consequently, everywhere is more crowded and you should try and reserve your hotels, tours, and ferry tickets in advance where you can.

Autumn (September to November)

Conditions in Greece in Autumn are similar to the Spring months. Temperatures linger around the late twenties (in terms of degrees Celsius) and the humidity subsides.

Shops, restaurants, and businesses around many of the islands close for the season at the end of September. However, in many places, the waters remain pleasant enough for swimming well into October .

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Greece can become bitter cold. Snow is not unheard of in Central and Northern Greece , and boats from the islands to the mainland run at a much more limited schedule. You can expect temperatures of 10 degrees and below if you are visiting Athens in winter .

Greece Travel Itinerary Budget

Beautiful Greece is generally a very affordable country to travel in. However, establishing an appropriate budget for your trip depends on where you are travelling to.

For example, Santorini and Mykonos are quite pricey. Conversely, Athens and mainland Greece typically do not break the bank.

Opting to travel outside the peak summer months will save you some money. Prices skyrocket during July and August. Come September, you will find that they have dropped by more than 50%.

Getting Around Greece  

Public transport in Greece is both affordable and reliable . It is also possible to rent a car . Driving in Greece is not as daunting as you may imagine.

Renting a Car in Greece

Opting to embark on your 10 day Greece itinerary with your own transport gives you a lot more freedom and flexibility. There are many charming villages, towns, and monasteries around the country that are tricky to get to unless you have a car.

Anyone between the ages of 21 and 70 can rent a car in Greece. Driving in Greece is not as intimidating as it may sound.

If you are an EU citizen, you must present an EU license. Non EU citizens need to display both their driving license and an International Driving Permit.

Various reputable rental companies operate in Greece. Sixt, Avis, and Hertz have branches across the country. Most offer pickup from major Greek airports.

Explore Greece by Rail

Greece’s rail network is not extensive. The main routes connect Athens to Thessaloniki , Kalambaka, and Patra. Some major cities (e.g. Ioannina ) are not serviced by rail at all.

OSE is the Greek rail network that manages the national trains. You can purchase tickets online, or in person at the train station.

Major renovation efforts have taken place in recent years to improve the service offering of Greek trains. Most services are clean, comfortable, fast, and efficient.

Explore Greece by Bus

KTEL buses are an intercity bus network that connects most major towns and cities in Greece. Small, regional operators service the routes to smaller villages.

KTEL buses are modern and comfortable. However, confusingly, there is not one centralised website to book tickets and review timetables from.

Instead, each region has its own KTEL website. For instance, KTEL Attikis services the Athens region.

Meanwhile, KTEL Chalkidikis services Halkidiki , and KTEL Macedonia covers Thessaloniki. If in doubt, your hotel can advise you where to search for tickets.

Ferries in Greece and the Islands

There are more than 6,000 Greek islands, split across several different Greek island groups . Only a small handful of Greek islands like Naxos and Paros have their own airports. . If you want to go island hopping in Greece, it typically makes sense to fly into Athens first for the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, and the Saronic islands. If you are going to be visiting the Ionian, you can fly into Corfu .

Skiathos island is serviced by a lot of European charter flights for travel to the Sporades during the summer months. You will need to depart from different ports and use different ferry operators depending on which area you are travelling to.

Most boats bound for the Saronic islands and the Cyclades depart from Athens’ Piraeus port. Sporades-bound boats depart from Agios Konstantinos and Volos ports.

Meanwhile, Igoumenitsa is the main departure point for Kerkyra and the Ionian. You can use ferryscanner to check routes and fares for ferries in Greece.

Greece Itineraries for Every Travel Style

Two different Greece itineraries have been drafted below which offer something to suit everyone.

Each proposed Greece itinerary lasts 10 days. However, you have the option to chop and change as you see fit.  

• Greece for Culture Vultures (Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Thessaloniki)
• Athens & the Cyclades (Athens, Santorini, Koufonisia, Mykonos)

10 Day Greece Itinerary: Greece for Culture Vultures

Best time to travel: Autumn and Spring

Greece has plenty to offer those with an interest in world cultures and history. Indeed, this gorgeous Mediterranean country is widely regarded as being the birthplace of civilisation. The cities and settlements here are among the oldest in the world.

In Athens, travellers can walk in the footsteps of Socrates and Aristotle as they meander through the Ancient Agora , and past the sunbleached ruins of temples and shrines that are thousands of years old.

Days One to Four: Athens

It makes sense to start your Greece itinerary in Athens. After all, the country’s main international airport is situated here, making the city a convenient entrypoint for most visitors.

Despite being far from being one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Athens is rich in ancient sites. However, it certainly has its charm.

Behind the gritty outer exterior, Athens boasts a plethora of quirky neighbourhoods, cute tavernas, and quirky coffee shops. You just have to know where to look.

The Greek capital is teeming with history. Its ramshackle streets date back over 5000 years. This makes it one of the oldest cities in the world.

Things to do in Athens

I’ve spent the last three and a half years living here in Athens. This Athens itinerary helps you cross off all of the most important sites in the city. Additionally, it enables you to beneath the surface and explore some of the more “ off the beaten path” areas.

Some of Athens’ main highlights are summarised below.

Athens Highlights

• Admire the Cycladic architecture of Anafiotika
• Visit the Acropolis
• Do a victory lap around the Panathenaic stadium
• Hike to the top of Lycabettus hill
• Sip tsipouo and ouzo in the tavernas of Plaka
• Venture off the beaten path

Get a Sampler of Island Life in Anafiotika

Anafiotika is one of the most charming spots in Athens. The best part? Very few people actually know about it.

Anafiotika is a charming little village whose houses are decorated in quintessential Greek island style. Envisage quaint whitewashed structures with blue roofs. The neighbourhood cascades down the slopes of Acropolis hill.

To get to Anafiotika, you can follow an unsuspecting path that leads upwards from Plaka. The area was created in the 18th century by residents of the Greek island Anafi who relocated to Athens.

They designed their houses in a style reminiscent of their island homes. As such, the architectural style here is more reminiscent of the Cyclades than what you may expect to see in the Greek capital.

Be a Tourist at the Acropolis

The Acropolis is visible from virtually all corners of Athens . It sits perched precariously atop a craggy, rocky hilltop from where it watches protectively over the city.

This is one of the most important historical monuments in Greece and the western world. Indeed, the Acropolis was almost designated as being one of the “new” seven wonders of the world.

The shimmering marble structure of the Parthenon is a magnificent remnant of the grand city of Pericles that was constructed at the site thousands of years ago. The site is more expansive than many realise.

The Parthenon may be the Acropolis’ “piece de resistance”. However, there are also numerous other important buildings in the area that should not be missed.

This includes the Temple of Athena Nike, the sanctuaries of Pandroseion and Erechtheion, and the well-preserved Herodes Atticus Roman Amphitheatre. Admission to the Acropolis also includes entry to the worthwhile Acropolis museum.

You should dedicate at least a couple of hours to exploring the ruins and the exhibitions. It is advisable to purchase your tickets online in advance, to save time queuing on arrival.

Do a Victory Lap at the Panathenaic Stadium

Athens’ Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro) is the world’s only marble stadium. Dating way back to 566 BC, it was renovated in the 18th century. Later it became the location of the first modern Olympic games.

Today, musical and sporting events are often hosted at the Panathenaic Stadium. Admission to the stadium and its adjoining Olympic history museum is €4.

The latter displays Olympic torches and memorabilia from across the globe. You will often see people jogging around the track in the morning

Hike up Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus Hill is a slice of tranquility in an otherwise hectic and chaotic city. It towers above the treelined streets of upscale Kolonaki .

Enjoy a pleasant, leisurely stroll through the woodlands and fragrant flower gardens as you ascend the hill. The quaint, whitewashed Orthodox church of Agios Georgios awaits at the top and contains several interesting icons and frescoes inside.

From up here, you have excellent panoramas across Athens and over to the Acropolis. The views are particularly special when the sun begins to set.

At this time, the historical monuments of Athens are illuminated with beautiful twinkling lights. On a clear day, you can see all the way out to Piraeus and the islands of Hydra , Agistri, etc.

Sip Tsipouro in Charming Plaka

Picturesque Plaka is one of the oldest parts of Athens. This is the heart of the city’s tourist district, sure. However, Plaka is so charming that it is quickly forgiven. Even Athenians often come here for an evening tipple or a spot of lunch.

Plaka boasts a labyrinth-like network of winding alleyways, crumbling Greco-Roman ruins, and eccentric markets and boutiques. Look out for the Roman Agora, the Bathhouse of the Winds, and the Ancient Agora while you’re here.

Grab Food in Plaka

Try to avoid the tourist trap restaurants on the steps of Plaka and nearby Thissio where toots are trying to lure visitors inside. Psaras Fisherman’s Tavern (Erechtheos 16) is one of the oldest restaurants in Athens.

It serves up fresh, mouthwatering seafood dishes with fish sourced from the nearby Aegean. To Kafeneio (Epicharmou 1) is another local favourite.

It has somehow escaped the attention of most visitors to Athens, despite being so centrally located. Sample the marinated country sausages and the meze specialties from Northern Greece .

Venture Off the Beaten Path

Athenian districts like artsy Pagrati and chic Kifissia are far more charming and personable than the central areas of Syntagma and Monastiraki . Each Athens neighbourhood has its own personality and town centre.

For instance, Exarchia and Metaxourgeio are known for their street art and emerging creative scenes. Meanwhile, underrated Kypseli is where a lot of foreign immigrants move to in Athens, and thus is home to vibrant international markets and eclectic stores.

You may wish to consider taking a walking tour of these parts of the city with a local. That way, you can really get beneath the surface of what the Greek capital has to offer and discover places that you may not have otherwise considered.

Where to Stay in Athens

Opting to stay in Syntagma, Koukaki , Psiri or Makriyianni will put you in the heart of the action. Here, you are just a short walk away from the main Athenian attractions.

However, venturing a little further afield gives a better insight into local life and culture. This guide on where to stay in Athens discusses the various Athenian neighbourhoods and gives a runthrough of the best possible options.

Day Five: Delphi

The ancient city of Delphi is one of 18 UNESCO world heritage sites in Greece . It is a must-visit for those interested in Greek history and mythology .

Legend has it that Zeus sent two eagles on a quest to find the central point of the universe. They flew to Delphi, and so, the city was built here.

There are several notable sites and ruins at Delphi. These include the temple of Apollo, an ancient amphitheater, and a fascinating museum displaying various artifacts recovered from the region.

Delphi is easily accessible by bus from Athens. It also places you just a short drive away from the next stop on this cultural 10 day Greece itinerary: Meteora.

Days Six and Seven: Meteora

The monasteries at Meteora are a breathtaking sight to behold. The name translates to meaning “suspended in the air”. Quite a fitting name.

This is the second-largest monastic community in Europe. It is second only to Mount Athos in Halkidiki .

The first monks arrived here around the 14th century and crafted 24 stunning Orthodox monasteries on the edges of the craggy cliffs. Today, only six of the original structures remain.

However, it is possible to venture inside, and their interiors are every bit as breathtaking as the exteriors. The scenic hiking trails that wind between the sites, and the stunning natural scenery make Meteora a highlight of any 10-day Greece itinerary.

Many beautiful hotels are located in nearby Kalambaka. Most of these offer impressive views over the monasteries for sunrise and sunset.   

The various monasteries of Meteora are open at different times. You can check the specifics with your hotel.

Keep in mind that conservative dress is required for entering most monasteries. This means keeping your legs and shoulders covered.

Days Eight to Ten: Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a city of remarkable history, sumptuous cuisine, and incredible sea views, a must-see on your week in Greece. This is Greece’s second city.

The streets and promenades of Thessaloniki are always teeming with life and activity. During the days of the Ottoman Empire, Thessaloniki was a city of major importance.

Start your Thessaloniki itinerary by stopping by the White Tower. This is the city’s most notable landmark.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll alongside the seafront as you enjoy the views over the Thermaic Gulf. When the sun sets, check out the vibrant tavernas and restaurants at the Ladadika district .

For drinks, head to the upscale bars that overlook the sunken gardens of Agios Ioannis. Ano Poli is one of the oldest parts of town and consists of quaint, colourful, Ottoman-era houses, many of which have been converted into charming stores, guesthouses, and eateries.

Thessaloniki airport offers onward flight routes to numerous destinations across Europe. Alternatively, you can find a cheap flight back to Athens with a Greek domestic airline for your return flight onwards.

Greece Itinerary 2: Ancient Civilisations & Beautiful Islands

Best time to travel: Shoulder season months (May, June and September)

The Greek islands are a paradise on earth. With translucent cerulean waters and miles upon miles of pristine sandy white beaches, it is not hard to understand why so many people love them. The islands are the main reason that many people pen Greece into their travel bucket lists in the first place.

This 10 days in Greece itinerary takes you to some of the most beloved Greek island destinations. From the romantic sunsets of Santorini to the glamorous beaches of Mykonos, and the secluded paradise of Koufonisia.

Days One and Two: Athens

A 10 day Greece itinerary that combines visiting the mainland and the islands is perfect. Such a trip enables you to see all sides of what this Mediterranean oasis has to offer.

Spend two days in Athens. This is enough to get a taster of the city’s culture and heritage.

From there, head on to the islands that the country is best known for. From Athens, fly or take the ferry to Santorini .

Days Three to Five: Santorini

Santorini’s reputation precedes it. The Greek isle is instantly recognisable around the world.

It is characterised by its iconic white Cycladic buildings that cascade down cliff faces, its multicoloured cliffs, and its volcanic sand beaches. Santorini is likely the main image that springs to mind at any mention of travelling to Greece.

There may be a lot of hype around Santorini but this is for good reason. Santorini, with its dazzling sunsets and panoramas, is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in Southern Europe.

Things to do in Santorini

You will not be short of things to do in Santorini. A selection of the island highlights is discussed below.

Santorini Highlights

• Conquer the Fira to Oia hike
• Navigate through the labyrinth-like streets of old Fira
• Visit the Akrotiri ruins
• Spend an afternoon in Ammoudi Bay
• Explore the ruins of old Byzantine castles
• Laze on the Red and Black sand beaches

Hike from Fira to Oia

The walk from Fira to Oia is an absolute must on this 10-day Greece itinerary. The 10km volcanic trail is one of the best hikes in Greece . It leads you through stunning volcanic landscapes that look like something from another worldly plane.

Along the route, you pass through the beautiful villages of Fira, Imerovigli, Oia, and Firostefani. The long-distance can be broken up with stops along the way.

Drink locally sourced wine in the tavernas of Imerovigli and take photographs as you admire the views over the caldera. The views are particularly magical as you approach golden hour and sunset.

Browse the Quaint Streets of Fira

The quaint streets of Fira are filled with elegant boutique stores that showcase the creations of local designers. They are the perfect choice for treating yourself to a little retail therapy and purchasing one-of-a-kind pieces that you cannot find elsewhere.

Visit the Akrotiri Ruins

The ancient city of Akrotiri dates back to 1630 BC. This bronze age settlement was sadly destroyed by a volcanic eruption on Santorini.

What remains of the site is somewhat similar to Pompeii. However, Akrotiri predates the Italian ruins. Akrotiri is rumored to have inspired Plato’s story of the lost city of Atlantis.  

Enjoy an Afternoon in Ammoudi Bay

Ammoudi Bay is a charming port filled with red cliffs and whitewashed tavernas. The eateries here serve excellent seafood dishes, and even Santorini residents come here for dinner.

Ammoudi is relatively off the beaten path as far as Santorini travel goes. It is situated 300 steps below Oia. You can board boats bound for Thirassia from the port here.

Meandering along the seafront promenade is charming. However, the highlight of Ammoudi is the secluded swimming spots and rock pools that are tucked away from view.

A weathered path leads you towards Agios Nikolaos rock. This is a favourite among locals for cliff jumping and swimming.

Explore the Byzantine Castle Ruins

The Byzantine castle in Oia was constructed centuries ago. It was built at a time when pirates were a real threat in Greece and locals needed to fortify their defenses.

Exploring the ruins themselves is interesting. However, the panoramas and viewpoints across the island and the sea from up here are second to none.

Visit the Beaches

Santorini is not renowned for its beaches. There are in fact many Greek islands and travel destinations with more beautiful coastlines than Santorini.

That said, the island does boast some unique seaside destinations. The Perissa black sand beach is a nice place to relax and grab lunch.

So too, is Red Beach. The latter was awarded its name on account of the unusual red shade of the volcanic rock here.

Where to Base Yourself in Santorini

Fira and Oia are the most popular towns in Santorini. The best place to stay depends somewhat on your personal preferences. Oia is the classic town that you see in most photographs and postcards of Santorini.

Arguably this is the most picturesque spot and is home to the most famous sunset in the world. however, Fira is the main town of Santorini.

Fira is filled with plentiful bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. Yet the sunset here doesn’t quite compare.

Days Six and Seven: Koufonisia

The appeal of Santorini and Mykonos is indisputable. However, so too is the draw of venturing off the beaten track to quiet Cycladic islands that escape the eyes of most tourists .

The small island of Koufonisia is one such place. It is a perfect spot to escape the crowds.

The island is less than 4km in length. Yet the paradisiacal beaches, inspiring landscapes, and chic hangouts here have won Koufonisia the title of being the “Mykonos of the Mini Cyclades”.

Koufonisia has been attracting trendy Greek locals for several decades. Yet like a lot of the best places to visit in Greece , it remains relatively undiscovered on a more global scale.

Don’t expect beaches lined with taverns, bars, and nightlife here. Koufonisia is the place to escape from all of the buzzes of modern life.

Here you can enjoy secluded coastlines and stretches of sand that you have virtually all to yourself. This is particularly the case if you are travelling during the shoulder season.

Swim and snorkel off the shores of the white sand Pori beach. By nightfall, enjoy home-cooked Greek dishes lovingly prepared in local tavernas that offer views out across to the nearby uninhabited islands.

Days Eight to Ten: Mykonos

The Greek island of Mykonos is synonymous with glitz, glamour, and the idea of living the good life. You could envisage Mykonos as having the elegance of the south of France, with the same party-hard spirit as Ibiza.

That said, you don’t have to be a night owl to appreciate the appeal of the island. The island has some of the most beautiful scenery in the Cyclades and so, Mykonos caters to everyone.

Some of the best activities to enjoy on the glamorous isle of Mykonos are listed below.

Head to Chora to Check Out the Windmills

The windmills at Chora are perhaps the most recognised landmark of Mykonos. They were used for centuries to refine grain, using the high winds that blow across the island.

Though there were originally dozens of windmills, now only seven remain. Some of these have been renovated into quirky residential homes.  

Kato Myloi are the most famous windmills in Chora. They are situated atop a hill that offers incredible views over the sea. The hill is well worth the walk, and this spot is one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset.

Enjoy Dinner and Cocktail Hour at Little Venice

Little Venice consists of colourful, stilted houses that emerge from the sea. Once upon a time, this was a popular hangout spot for pirates!

Today, the stilted houses have been renovated into chic upscale cocktail bars and eateries. Little Venice is one of the best places to enjoy gourmet food with a view during your 10-day Greece itinerary.

Visit Delos, Birthplace of Apollo and Artemis

A day trip to the mysterious island of Delos is one of the most fascinating historical attractions that you could incorporate into your Greece itinerary. This small UNESCO-protected island is considered as being one of the most important archaeological sites in all of Greece!

According to Greek mythology, Delos was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The island was deemed sacred ground, and no mortal was ever permitted to be born or die on the island.

Ruined temples, sculpture guardians, and colonnaded promenades around the island are remarkably well-preserved. Boats depart daily from Mykonos to Delos.

Stroll Around Mykonos Town Centre and the Old Port

Mykonos’ town centre is comprised of maze-like narrow alleyways and quaint cobbled streets. Enjoy getting lost among the colourful buildings, and browsing through the various boutique stores that are scattered around the town centre.

For dinner and drinks, head to Matogianni. This is the place to see and be seen in Mykonos.

Trendy town centre aside, the old port also brings in its share of charm. This area is filled with beautiful churches and cute coffee shops where locals sip strong Greek coffee and play backgammon. It is a lovely place to walk, take photos and people watch – especially as the sun sets behind the fishing boats.

Go Organic Wine Tasting

Mykonos is home to dozens of vineyards that offer tours and tastings to visitors. You can sample exquisite organic local wines along with fresh, homemade Greek delicacies.

Kopanisti and ladotyri cheeses, charcuterie boards, cold cuts, and horiatiki (Greek salad) are all popular accompaniments. Various tour operators offer Mykonos wine tasting excursions. You can also reach out directly to the vineyards that interest you and organise an independent tasting. If you enquire at your hotel/accommodation, your concierge may be able to assist you in organising a private transfer between the wineries.

Extensions for Your Greece Travel Itinerary

These Greece itineraries have been created with the idea of fitting as much as possible into your vacation time off work without having to hurry from A to B.

There are so many stunning places to visit in Greece that it is hard to just shortlist a few. However, if you have a little longer to spend in this Mediterranean paradise, additional destinations that you could consider are detailed below.

Arachova is a worthy destination to add to your cultural Greece itinerary. This is particularly the case if you are travelling to Greece during the winter . The small mountain village is a popular romantic getaway for Greeks during the Christmas period.

Arachova is famed for its reputation as a ski resort. However, it also boasts fascinating archaeological sites, beautiful nature, and the chance to have a more “local” travel experience. It doesn’t get any cozier than snuggling up by the fire in a log cabin in the Greek mountains.

Nafplio is the former capital of Greece and arguably one of the most underrated travel destinations across the entire country. It is possible to visit Nafplio on a day trip from Athens . The charming old town, with its cocktail bars and charming tavernas effortlessly captures the hearts of those who visit.

The island of Crete is filled with enough scenery, history, and culture to warrant an entire two-week itinerary all of its own. On a limited schedule though, 3-4 days in Heraklion is well worth incorporating into your Greece travel itinerary.

Heraklion’s charismatic harbour boasts plenty of charming guesthouses overlooking the Mediterranean. Using Heraklion as a base, it’s possible to access some of Crete’s most important sites within a few days. This includes the fort at Knossos and the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos.

The Saronic Gulf Islands

The islands of the Saronic Gulf are just a few hours away from Athens’ Piraeus port. They boast beautiful secluded beaches and coves, and quaint fishing villages void of tourists.

Explore the quaint port and narrow shopping streets of Hydra – an adorable island where cars do not exist and people get around by horses and donkeys. Alternatively, revel in the rugged natural beauty of Spetses.

Situated on the western coast of the country, the Ionian island of Lefkada is connected to mainland Greece by several bridges. If you are seeking R&R during your Hellenic travels, there are plenty of Lefkada beaches that you can sink your toes into.

Porto Katsiki, Milos, Kathisma, Agiofili, and Egremni are but a few coastal areas that are beloved among locals. Lefkada also makes a good jumping-off point for taking boats out to the islands of Itaka or Kefalonia for a day.

Final Thoughts

Do you have any questions about these Greece itineraries? I live in Athens and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have about planning your trip to Greece .

Feel free to reach out by email or drop me a comment below if you need anything. Safe travels! Geia sou! Melissa

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12 comments.

Hi Melissa! I will be traveling to Greece for 9 days in May. I fly in and out of Athens and wanted to incorporate Mykonos, Santorini, Crete and Meteora into my trip. Do you think this is plausible? This would mean 2 days in each place. Would you change this in any way? Thank you!

Hey Emily, Thanks for your message. Your itinerary is certainly possible and all of those are lovely places! The only thing to keep in mind is that it would be a bit hurried. One thing, in particular, is that it takes almost four hours to get to Meteora from Athens so it’s a bit of a trek there and back. Crete is also a very large island. I would be tempted to reduce the number of destinations perhaps and save one or two for next time so that you spend less time travelling and have more time to relax and enjoy the lovely beaches and islands but that is personal preference 🙂 Will you spend any time in Athens itself?

Hi Melissa! Im travelling to Greece this summer. Already booked the following: 1. Land at Athens on 15th August evening 2. Flying from Thessaloniki to Eindhoven (Netherlands) on 27th August 3. Free Earth Festival in Halkidiki – 22nd to 26th August. So I have 16th August to 21st August to travel mainland Greece (i think islands would get expensive for me) starting from Athens and ending at Thessaloniki. After reading your article, I was thinking may be 2-3 days Athens, 1 day Delphi, 1 day Meteora and then to Thessaloniki would be best for me. Do i need accomodation at Delphi and Meteora? Do Delphi and Meteora have cheap accomodation available (hostels)? Do i have travel options that go from Athens to Delphi, Delphi to Meteora, Meteora to Thessaloniki? Are there night buses for these routes?

what would you suggest? i definitely like the chills and beaches (island trips) more but it looks difficult. Sorry for too many questions. And THANK YOU!!!

Many many thanks for your truly excellent insights into Greece. You’ve made my decisions much easier after reading your thoughts. And, even better, you are a really interesting writer! Jim

Awesome itineraries and suggestions. When I traveled to Greece, I explored the islands of Milos and Sifnos, which are just spectacular. Your post makes me want to travel back and spend a few nore months in Greece 🙂

Thanks Viktoria! It’s certainly a beautiful country 🙂 I have been living in Greece for the past two years now and never get tired of exploring it!

What do you think about doing the island hopping itinerary end of March? My best friend and business partner are going to come for ten days and bring our daughters as a surprise. (17 and 19 years old) We want to relax mostly, see amazing cultural sites, beach it and just basically see things that the more common tourist might not see. We need your help! Four amazing women coming for the first time. We started our own company a year ago and with our earnings we’ve decided to treat ourselves and daughters to a getaway to Greece! What should we do? We are game for any type of adventure! Kindly, Kim

Hi Melissa; So glad to have found your blog. Me and my dad are thinking of traveling to ONE of these end of November 2021 for 7-10 days: Hydra, Kythnos, (Poros or Tinos) after your recommendations! Think escape tourists, history, traditional pretty villages n good local food, charming, quiet and somewhere budget pref a family run guesthouse. Just super authentic and off beaten track. My dad is 80 yrs old (no car rental over 70? any exceptions?). I have mobility issues..so preferably easy to get to from Athens & the option to get some kind of ride necessary for main part, and not too hilly/stairs for my poor feet..any suggestions? Hot springs wud b icing on the cake! Help!

Hi Melissa, My husband and I are planning a trip to Greece late September. We love hiking and are looking for a challenging hike. We’ve done Patagonia in Chile and Fisherman’s Trail in Portugal more recently. We are looking for an 8 to 9-day hike, we are flexible. I like the sounds of the Corfu Trail. We are looking for an agent to do the booking and maybe do a luggage transfer if available on that trail. We will be celebrating our tenth wedding anniversary so are looking for a little upscale this time. Would appreciate your suggestions. Thank you. Chantal

Hi Melissa, wow you provide fabulous information! Traveling this July, doing itinerary now! looking to go to Crete, Rhodes, Athens, Santorini, Paros and of course teens want Mykonos but not necessary. Looking at 11-12 days. Ferry rides to and from places. Athens two days and the rest is fun, sun, old towns, local spots and affordable places to stay to be on a budget! Would love your input!

Hi Mellisa, I am glad I found your blog. Lots of good information. My family of 4 are planning trip to Greece on November. We want to go Santorini, Meteora, and Athens. We will be flying from USA. I was thinking to travel first to Santorinir then Meteora and Athens at last. Do you think this order is a good idea? I would love your thought on this. Thank you!

Hi Melissa, Loved your blog. It’s very insightful. I am travelling from India to Greece next month with my husband for 10-12 days. We are not the history types and would rather enjoy nature and nightlife.

This may be my only trip to Greece and thus I want to ensure I don’t miss the must do’s.

So if you could suggest the number of days in each destination; would be of great help. Too many choices are confusing for me.

Also, not very sure of covid restrictions there.

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Greece Travel Blogs

These are all of my travel blogs about greece. .

From exploring the stunning Greek islands, with their luxurious honeymoon hotels, to the vibrant cities of Athens and Thessaloniki, find out the best places to travel to in my Greece travel blogs and travel guides.

Happy exploring!

15 Interesting Facts About Santorini

From the iconic white and blue houses of the caldera, to the island’s food and wine, these facts about Santorini will amaze you!

The ultimate naxos itinerary .

From mountain hikes and scuba dives, to food tours and historic monuments, this Naxos itinerary will help you plan the perfect island break.

7 amazing alternatives to santorini.

From the lesser-known islands of Tinos, Paros and Andros, to the ever-popular Mykonos and Rhodes, these Greek islands are perfect alternatives to Santorini.

What to wear in greece for women and men: greece packing list.

Wondering what to wear in Greece? Whether you’re planning a city break in Athens or island-hopping around Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes, this packing guide will help you decide what to take.

Where to stay in paros – 17 best hotels in paros, greece.

From lavish spas and gourmet dining, to infinity pools and secluded beaches, these are the very best hotels in Paros in Greece.

Real Greek Experiences

Greek Culture, Travel Information, Itineraries, Life in Greece

Real Greek Experiences – Travel Blog About Greece

Welcome to Real Greek Experiences, a travel blog about Greece and the Greek islands. I offer information and tips about the beautiful Mediterranean country, and help travelers plan their Greek vacation independently.

Real Greek Experiences – An introduction to Greek life

Hi and welcome to my Greece travel blog! I am Vanessa , and I was born in Athens, where I live. In this blog, I suggest the best places to visit in Greece, and offer travel tips about weather, transportation, food and sightseeing. I also write about Greek culture, history, customs, and Greek lifestyle.

You will find articles on popular destinations, such as Athens , the famous Mykonos and Santorini , Ancient Delphi and the Meteora monasteries .

However, my aim is to introduce you to the less visited areas, focusing on authenticity. I love writing about my favourite places, and make sure you experience things the way locals do.

My vision is to help you explore and discover Greece without any stress, and have a Real Greek Experience during your holiday!

A few articles to get you started on Real Greek Experiences

Here are a few suggestions on where to start:

What to see in Athens in three days

A complete 3-day itinerary for the city of Athens, the Greek capital. Includes the main sights, local highlights, walking routes, and suggestions on places to eat.

Read it here: What to see in Athens in three days

Also read: Athens combo ticket

What to do in Santorini in four days

How to spend four days in Santorini, the iconic Greek island which is a dream destination for thousands of people. You will find tips on beaches, mountain villages, boat cruises, wine tours, restaurants and more.

Read it here:   What to do in Santorini in four days

Driving in Greece

If you are interested in driving in Greece, you’ll have lots of fun reading this guide. To sum things up, not all Greeks drive like crazy, but there are some things you should take into consideration.

Read it here: Driving in Greece

What to pack for Greece

A guide on what to pack for Greece, for all seasons – I can assure you that Greece has four seasons alright! Whatever you do, bring comfy shoes, a few different layers of clothes, sunscreen and sunglasses.

Read it here: What to pack for Greece for all seasons

Greek Orthodox Easter traditions

Greek Easter is the most important celebration in every single region of Greece. Here is all you need to know about the Greek traditions throughout the Holy Week, the joyous Anastasi liturgy on Good Saturday, and the special dishes prepared for Easter Sunday.

Read it here:   Greek Orthodox Easter traditions

• Greek celebrations

Articles on the major Greek celebrations, religious days and public holidays, which are a big part of everyday life. You will also find information on the Greek panigiria , local feasts with lots of eating, drinking and traditional Greek dancing.

Read them here:

• Kathara Deftera – Clean Monday
• Independence Day – 25 March
• The Oxi day – 28 October
• Christmas in Greece

An introduction to the Greek island groups

Greece has several dozens of islands, and most visitors don’t know where to start! This article introduces the various Greek island groups.

Read it here: The Greek island groups

Also read: Island hopping in Greece on a budget

50 popular dishes of Greece

Greece has so many more dishes apart from Greek salad, souvlaki and moussaka ! This article includes information about our rich culinary tradition. You will find dishes based on meat, fish, dairy products, legumes, fresh produce, and good quality olive oil.

Read it here: 50 popular dishes of Greece

The evil eye in Greece

What is the Greek evil eye? Is it reality, or superstition? Have a look for yourself!

Read it here: The evil eye in Greece

Every week, I add more articles to Real Greek Experiences. Feel free to subscribe to my weekly newsletter , and never miss a new blog post!

Booking ferries, tours, rooms, cars and transfers in Greece

If  you want to make any bookings in advance of your trip, here are a few websites you will find helpful:

• FerryScanner – A search engine where you can compare ferry routes, prices, and book your ferry tickets online
• Get Your Guide – Hundreds of tours in Athens, the Greek islands and the rest of Greece and the world. You can choose from sailing trips, cruises, food tours, guided tours in the ancient sites, and so much more!
• Booking.com – My favorite platform to book rooms and apartments in Greece. It has a wider selection (and, often, better prices) than other popular platforms.
• DiscoverCars – A great online tool to book a rental vehicle during your holiday. You can compare prices across several well-known operators, choose your preferred insurance policy, and pick any extras.
• Welcome Pickups – Book a private transfer quickly and easily.

One more thing: I’ve traveled to many cities and countries in the world, and can relate to anyone’s excitement when planning a trip to Athens and Greece! I always answer all questions, so feel free to get in touch on my FB page , or at [email protected]. 

Enjoy your stay in Greece!

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Greece Travel Guide

travel guide to greece

Ohhh, Greece - we’re utterly obsessed. It’s by far one of our favorite countries - we even spent our honeymoon there! From the turquoise Mediterranean Sea, jaw-dropping caldera views, ancient monasteries, and all the olives and feta (and spanakopita!) you can eat, it’s never a bad idea to visit this little slice of paradise.

When to visit: The short answer: the shoulder seasons of May and September. The weather is pleasant and the crowds aren’t crazy. If you’re planning a visit during Greece’s summer (July/August), do note it'll most likely be ridiculously crowded and scorching hot (but the OCEAN!). And psst: the islands in the off-season (November - April) see many businesses closing up shop, so not the greatest time to visit them.

Language : The official language of Greece is Greek (guess that’s kinda obvious), but many Greeks also learn English (especially those in the tourism industry). And just FYI, written Greek has different letters than in the English language. Fun fact - it’s estimated that over 150,000 English words are derived from Greek words (especially technical and scientific terms, but also antique, idol, encyclopedia, and telephone!)

Favorite Spots : You can’t visit Greece without visiting a few of the islands - I’ve seen Santorini, Mykonos, Crete (don’t miss it!), Hydra, Aegina, and Paros so far. BUT while many people head straight to the islands, I highly encourage you to give Athens a proper explore, as well as venturing a bit north to both Delphi and Meteora.

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Essential Info About

Capital City : Athens

Currency : Greece is on the Euro, with the exchange rate being much better than it used to as compared to the dollar. VISA and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere (you may run into some problems with American Express), and it’s always wise to keep some cash on you if you’re visiting towns in the countryside (and not on the typical tourist track). 

Getting Around : Athens is highly walkable, and boasts a pretty good public transport system. There are highway buses to get between major Greek cities/areas, and ferries that connect the islands. And once the islands, rent an ATV - it’s such a fun and easy way to get around! 

Health and Safety: Yes, there is some petty crime in Athens; be cautious of your surroundings and keep your stuff on you, but don’t let the worry ruin your trip.

Visa Requirements : No visa is required for US citizens as long as you’re not staying longer than 90 days in any 180-day period.

LOCATIONS IN GREECE

Greece Bucket List

Epic experiences in greece:.

• Relax in an infinity pool overlooking the caldera in Santorini
• Marvel at the monasteries in Meteora
• See ancient Greece in Delphi
• Have breakfast with Acropolis views in Athens
• Rent an ATV and ride to the red and black sand beaches in Santorini
• Get lost in the maze in Mykonos Town
• See 1,000+ year old structures in Athens
• Sip Greek wine against the Mykonos windmills
• See the pink sand beaches of Elafonisi in Crete
• Sail to the Saronic Islands from Athens

What to eat in Greece:

• Pita gyros, and all of 'em
• Sweet loukoumades (fried dough)
• Spanikopita (spinach pie)
• Greek frozen yogurt with honey
• Baklava + Halva (famous desserts)
• Dolmadakia (stuffed grape leaves)
• Greek Salad (so fresh, and oh the feta!)
• Traditional Moussaka + Pastitsio
• Souvlaki in tzatziki sauce
• Fresh octopus (my favorite)

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Home > Greece Travel Blog - Athens, Islands & Beyond

Greece Travel Blog – Athens, Islands & Beyond

What You Need To Know About Planning A Trip To Greece

Best Hiking In Greece: 19 Unmissable Hiking Trails & Routes

Best Way To Get From Athens To Zakynthos (Flight, Bus And Ferry Travel)

Mykonos To Ios Ferry Tickets: Info, FAQs & Travel Tips

This Greece travel blog has all you need to know about traveling to Greece. Where to stay, what to eat, and things to do in Greece. We’ve got it all covered, Athens and beyond.

Here are our most popular Greece travel guides.

What You Need To Know About Planning A Trip To Greece Best Hiking In Greece: 19 Unmissable Hiking Trails & Routes Best Way To Get From Athens To Zakynthos (Flight, Bus And Ferry Travel) Mykonos To Ios Ferry Tickets: Info, FAQs & Travel Tips Largest Islands In Greece Guide: Must-Visit Biggest Greek Islands Best Drinks Of Greece: 21 Greek Beverages To Drink How To From Greece To Turkey By Ferry (& Other Ways) Hike From Fira To Oia, Santorini On The Caldera Path 33 Ancient Greek Archaeological Sites In Greece: The Acropolis & Beyond Corfu Family Holidays: Things To Do In Corfu With Kids 17 Unmissable Day Trips From Athens: Take A Tour From Athens 13 Greece Scams To Avoid – Is Athens Safe To Visit In 2024 7 Best Greek Party Islands: What Greek Islands Have The Best Nightlife Is Kos Safe To Visit In 2024 – Kos Travel Safety Guide 15 Of The Most Beautiful Cities In Greece Not To Miss How To Get From Corfu To Albania (& Albania To Corfu) 28 Street Foods In Athens Ideas & Where To Find Them 6 Areas Not To Miss In The Lakonia Region Of Greece (Laconia Region) The Perfect 3 Day Santorini Itinerary Winter In Greece Guide – What To Do & Weather 2024 Cyclades Island Hopping Guide – Greece Travel 31 Dreamy Islands- Best Greek Island For Couples To Visit 9 Top Greek Islands For Families: Travel Greece With Kids Greek Aegean Islands List – Aegean Sea Islands Guide Athens Airport To Piraeus Ferry Terminal – 2024 Guide 20 Traditional Greek Desserts To Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth Is Thessaloniki Worth Visiting? Plus 23 Things To Do Once There Visiting Zakynthos Island – Travel Zante Island Greece What Currency In Greece Is Used  – Greek Currency Euro Guide Greek Easter: Things To Do & Foods During Easter In Greece Travel Guide To Kasos Island, Greece – 14 Things To Do & See 10 Best Beaches In Santorini To Enjoy This Summer How To Get From Corfu To Saranda (& Saranda To Corfu) Hiring A Car In Greece & Greece Driving Tips Guide 2024 Family Holidays In Crete Guide – Things For Kids 18 Peloponnese Best Beaches, Greece You Will Love 6 Best Beach Clubs In Santorini: Santorini Beach Bars A Guide To Kos Island, Greece Guide To Nisyros Island – A Remote Aegean Getaway  9 Best Beaches In Thessaloniki – Beautiful Greece 10 Top Chania Beaches On Crete – Beautiful Greece How Many Days In Athens Is Enough? Plan Your Athens Itinerary Greece In Spring – Best Time & Reasons To Visit Guide To Skiing In Greece & 13 Best Greek Ski Resorts How To Enjoy 4 Days In Santorini: Detailed Santorini Itinerary How To Get From Athens To Delphi (& Delphi To Athens) Unmissable Things To Do In Amorgos Island Greece 40 Best Rooftop Bars In Athens With Stunning Views & Cocktails Ferry From Athens To Santorini – Schedules & Tickets Traveling From Athens To Paros & Paros To Pireaus Athens To Spetses Ferry From Piraeus – 2024 Guide Ferry From Mykonos To Paros (& Paros To Mykonos Ferry) Kimolos Island Greece Guide – Hidden Coves & Beaches 18 Unmissable Beaches Of Sithonia, Halkidiki Greece Best Beaches On Lefkada Island, Greece Not To Miss How To Visit These 11 Greek Islands Close To Turkey In One Day How To Celebrate Christmas In Greece: Festive Greek Traditions 8 Hiking Trails Around Athens – Hiking In Athens Greece How To Get From Athens to Kalamata (& Kalamata to Athens) Ferry From Italy To Greece – Prices, Routes & Tickets Antiparos To Mykonos Ferry (& Mykonos To Antiparos Ferry) Crete Vs. Mykonos – Choosing Mykonos Or Crete Guide 15 Cheapest Islands In Greece To Visit On A Budget 3 Ways On How To Get From Athens To Mykonos In 2024 67 Great Greek Landmarks In Greece That Are Not The Acropolis Epic Guide To Milos Island, Greece – Best Things To Do Kythira Greece Guide – Perfect Island To Escape An Epic Guide To Karpathos Island, Greece 18 Best Mykonos Beach Clubs For A Tranquil Summer Croatia Vs. Greece Comparison – Greece Or Croatia Break Guide Agistri Island, Greece Guide – Greek Saronic Gulf 25 Ancient Greek Cities – Epic Guide To Ancient Greece Best Time To Visit Greece – Greek Seasons & When To Go Best 10 Day Greece Itinerary Guide – Greek Trip Idea Greek Island Of Kea Guide: Discover The Best Of Kea (Tzia) Aegina Or Agistri? Greek Saronic Islands Agistri Vs. Aegina Your Guide To Visiting Kefalonia Island, Greece 26 Best Athens Landmarks – Must-See Historical Sites Drinking Alcohol & The Legal Drinking Age in Greece Epic Travel Guide To Alonissos Island, Greece 41 Beaches In Milos, Greece + A Guide To The 5 Best Greece Or Portugal For Travel? Portugal Vs. Greece Guide Greece Or Spain? How You Choose Between Spain Vs. Greece Aegina Or Hydra? Which Is The Best Greek Saronic Island 2024 Greece On A Budget Tips – Travel To Greece Cheap 2024 Mykonos to Naxos Ferry Routes, Times & Tickets Guide To 21 Top Things To Do In Nafplio, Greece Ferry From Croatia To Greece (& Greece To Croatia) Guide To The Island Of Lesbos, Greece – Lesvos Guide Snorkeling Greece – 50 Spots For Snorkeling In Greece 19 Must-See UNESCO Sites In Greece: World Heritage  20 Best Quiet Greek Islands: A Secluded Vacation Without Crowds Spend Christmas In Athens & Enjoy The Athens Christmas Markets DIY Greek Mythology Road Trip In Greece With Kids Is Hydra Worth Visiting? The Car-Free Island In Greece Ports In Greece: Cruise To Greece & The Greek Islands 23 Must-Buy Greek Souvenirs: Best Gifts To Buy In Greece Why Visit Greece In Autumn – Best Greece In Fall Ideas What To See & Do On Ikaria Island – Greece Travel Guide Santorini To Crete Ferry In 2024 (& Crete To Santorini) 2024 Athens To Crete Ferry (& From Crete To Athens) 2024 Thessaloniki Christmas Market Guide Greek Islands: Local’s Guide To Island-Hopping Greece 26 Most Famous Greek Statues & Where To Find Them  Greek Food Guide: 27 Ideas On What To Eat In Greece Santorini Vs. Mykonos Comparison Guide: How To Choose Santorini Or Mykonos Greece In September – What To Do & See In September In Greece Meteora Monasteries Greece Guide Koufonisia: Kato Koufonisi & Ano Koufonisi, Greece Is Naxos Worth Visiting? What You Need To Know To Visit Naxos 3 Ways To Travel From Athens Airport To The Acropolis What To Do On Corfu In Winter For Everyone 23 Best Beaches On Amorgos Island – Greece Guide 7 Best Beaches in Ios, Greece To Enjoy Spetses Island Guide – A Hidden Greek Island Gem Top 20 Waterfalls In Greece List – Best Greek Falls Sifnos Island – A Lavish Island Close To The Mainland Serifos Island Guide – Don’t Lose Your Head Like Medusa Athens Travel Advice, Including Things To Do In Athens Skopelos Vs. Skiathos – Choosing Skiathos Or Skopelos, Greece Choose Between Crete Or Rhodes – Rhodes Vs. Crete Guide Solo Travel In Greece: Tips For The Mainland & Greek Islands Top 12 Acropolis View Athens Rooftop Restaurants 14 Famous Ancient Greek Temples And Where To Find Them  Guide To Corfu Island, Greece – Emerald Eye Of The Ionian Sea All You Need To Know About Kalymnos Island, Greece Your Guide To Santorini With Kids (Plus A Pros And Cons List) Where To Go Paros Or Milos – Milos Vs. Paros Guide How To Have A Romantic Honeymoon In Santorini Perfect 3 Day Athens Itinerary For First-Timers 11 Lesser-Known Greek Islands You Should Explore Places To Enjoy The Nightlife In Mykonos Naxos Or Paros Island Comparison – Paros Vs. Naxos Your Guide To Antiparos Island – Cyclades Greece A Guide To Lefkada Island, Greece How To Get From Santorini Airport To Fira 12 Closest Islands To Athens For Your Next Greek Adventure  Choose Between Crete Or Santorini – Santorini Vs Crete 16 Best Mainland Greece Beaches You Cannot Miss 13 Greek Breakfast Ideas For Breakfast In Greece Things To Do In Donousa Greece – An Island In The Aegean Guide To The Site Of Akrotiri Village Santorini, Greece How To Get From Mykonos To Santorini (& Santorini To Mykonos) One Day In Santorini Itinerary – Santorini Cruise Port Kefalonia Vs. Corfu Islands – Greek Island Comparison Guide To The 9 Best Beach Clubs In Paros Greece For Kids: Where To Go In Greece With Kids One Day In Mykonos: Docking At Mykonos Cruise Port Choose Between Corfu Or Zakynthos – Zakynthos Vs. Corfu 14 Day Turkey & Greece Itinerary – Best 2 Weeks In 2024 Ionian Islands Greece – Island Hopping, Itinerary Guide Ferry From Thessaloniki To Skopelos Guide 15 Of The Best Beaches In Naxos Greece You Will Love Ferry From Greece To Cyprus Or Fly? Kalamata Greece – Things To Do In The Home Of The Olive 7 Of The Best Day Trips From Thessaloniki To Take In 2024 Is There Uber In Rhodes? Plus, Exploring Transport On Rhodes Is There Uber in Corfu? Yes & Here Is Everything You Need To Know Greece Packing List – What To Pack For Greece Guide Island Hoping The Greek Dodecanese Islands How To Get From Rome To Athens (& Athens To Rome) What’s Better, Greece Or Turkey? Here We Run Through Turkey Vs Greece Airports On Greek Islands: 26 Greek Islands With Airports How To Get From Croatia To Greece (& From Greece To Croatia) Saronic Gulf: Your Guide To The 6 Saronic Islands, Greece Your Guide To Andros Greece – A Beach Island Getaway Aegina, Greece Travel Guide – An Island Near Athens 5 Volcanoes In Greece You Must Visit On Your Next Trip Do You Tip In Greece? A Guide To Tipping In Greece Most Famous Shipwrecks In Greece & Where To Find Them Guide To Ios Island, Greece – Things To Do & See A Guide To Attica Greece – History & What To See & Do In Attica Guide To The Three Peninsulas Of Halkidiki, Greece Guide To Karpenisi: Real Greek Life In Central Greece A Guide To Peloponnese Region, Greece How To Get From Thessaloniki To Halkidiki (& Halkidiki To Thessaloniki) How To Get From Milos To Antiparos (& Antiparos To Milos) Crete Vs. Corfu: Which Island Will Suit You Better, Corfu Or Crete? How To Get From Albania To Greece (& Greece To Albania) How To Get From Crete To Mykonos (& From Mykonos to Crete) How To Order & Drink Coffee In Greece – Greek Coffee Culture Guide To Thassos Island In The Aegean Sea: What To See & Do Greece Or Cyprus? How You Choose Between Cyprus Vs. Greece What To Do On Holidays In Greece A Guide To Western Macedonia, Greece How To Get From Greece To Italy (& Italy To Greece) Skiathos Island Greece Guide – A Small, But Mighty Island Best Nisyros Beaches: Volcanic Sands & Crystal Clear Waters  Mykonos Travel Guide – A MedVacation Like No Other 37 Monasteries In Greece – Discovering Greece’s Sacred Sites Greek Island Groups – About Each Group Of Islands In Greece Guide To The Central Greece Region – Mainland Travel Athens Vs. Thessaloniki – How To Choose Between Thessaloniki Or Athens Guide To Symi Island, Greece (But Super Close To Turkey!) Where Are The Best Sandy Beaches In Greece..Let Us Show You Visiting Thessaloniki – Your Guide Of Things To Do In Thessaloniki Santorini To Milos By Ferry (& Ferries From Milos To Santorini) How To Get To Skiathos Island – A Gem In The Sporades, Greece Guide To The Archaeological Site Of Delphi Greece Guide To Syros Island: Explore The Small But Mighty Greek Island Your Guide To The Archaeological Site of Mystras, Greece Paxos Island Guide – An Ionian Island That Packs A Green Punch Crete Itinerary – Things To Do In Crete Greece Naxos Vs. Crete – How To Choose Between Crete Or Naxos Guide To The Best Greece Honeymoon Resorts: Where To Stay & Why Greece Road Trip Itineraries: Greece By Car For 5, 7 Or 10 Days Expert Rhodes Travel Guide + Top 11 Things To Do The 12 Hottest Greek Islands In October Calling You What To See & Do When It’s Winter In Santorini Scuba Diving Greece – Best Places To Go Scuba Diving In Greece How To Get From Thessaloniki To Athens (& Athens To Thessaloniki) Ithaca Island, Greece – An Emerald Gem In The Ionian Sporades Islands Travel Guide Greek Wines In Greece, What To Drink & Where Your Guide To Paros Island & Its White-Washed Towns The Closest Islands To Santorini, Greece A Guide To Areopoli Greece – A Gem Of The Mani Peninsula Our Pick Of The Best Beaches In Corfu, Greece A Guide To Limeni Greece – A Hidden Fishing Village Your Guide To Patra, Greece – Gate To The West Evia Island, Greece Travel Guide (Euboea Island) The 8 Best Greek Islands For Older Couples   Island Hopping From Crete – Closest Islands To Crete Vathia, Greece – A Ghost Town In The Peloponnese Region A Greek Island Getaway To The Chios Island, Greece What You Need To Know About Psiri Athens, Greece Sifnos Vs. Serifos – How To Choose Between Serifos Or Sifnos The Luxury Destination Of Costa Navarino, Greece Things To Do On Patmos Island (And How To Get There) A Local’s Guide To Car Rentals Crete & Driving Tips 80 Fascinating Facts About Greece Digital Nomads Greece – Greece Digital Nomad Visa Tinos Island Greece – A Quiet Island In The Cyclades

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GREECE TRAVEL BLOG BY GREEKA

Our Greece travel blog holds many secrets and surprises! We’ve explored the whole Greece and the Greek islands and we let you in on every little secret of the magical world of Greece! From Greek destinations off the beaten tourist trail to hot holiday tips, we got you covered!

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• Athens (41)
• Islands (29)
• Santorini (16)
• Cyclades (16)
• Peloponnese (13)
• Mykonos (6)
• Macedonia (3)
• Saronic (3)
• Thessaloniki (3)
• Dodecanese (3)
• Kalavryta (2)
• Donoussa (2)
• Nafplion (2)
• Things to do (2)
• Magazino (2)
• Amorgos (2)
• anafiotika (1)
• Mani peninsula (1)
• Zakynthos (1)
• Epidaurus (1)
• Schinoussa (1)
• Mycenae (1)
• Koufonisia (1)
• Iraklia (1)
• Kythnos (1)
• Karpathos (1)
• Mesolongi (1)
• Arachova (1)
• Monemvasia (1)

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Greek Island Hopping: Ultimate Greece Travel Guide

White and blue clifftop towns, pink flowers, gorgeous olive groves, secluded coves, and dazzling sea: this is Greece ! This magical country tops many traveler’s bucket lists and is a popular favorite for European summer trips. Greek island hopping, in particular, is one of the best ways to see the unique landscapes that make Greece so special. By day explore an island by ATV and stop off at secret beaches. At night, watch unforgettable sunsets and enjoy delicious local food. Get ready to enjoy sunshine and island vibes with our 12-day Greece itinerary.

Greece Travel Guide

Ready to begin your incredible Greek island-hopping adventure? Depending on your trip, you can change the order of the islands that you visit or even add more islands! This is easy to do, as most islands have great ferry connections and airports. However, note that some airports are domestic and can only be flown to from Athens . ( Read about the things to do in Athens )

Tip : Mykonos and Santorini both have an international airport, so it’s a good place to start or end your Greece itinerary.

Day 1-4: Santorini

Begin at one of the most famous Greek Islands: Santorini ! Santorini is known for its white and blue villages built on top of cliffs overlooking the sea. It’s also famous worldwide for incredible sunsets, which can be seen from many panoramic viewpoints all over the island. Nothing beats watching the sky burst into color over the sea; an unforgettable moment on your Greek island hopping trip.

Aside from soaking up the beauty of this island, there are lots of other activities you can do while you’re there. For example, wine tours, visiting all the beaches, cable car trips, nature hikes, ATV rides, or discover the island’s history at one of the archeological sites!

Read more:   Complete Santorini Travel Guide (Things to do)

Where to Stay in Santorini

Santorini is a fairly small island in Greece. This means you can drive across the island in 45 minutes, making it the perfect place to spend 4 days in. We recommend basing yourself in Fira, the capital of Santorini, as it’s central and great to move from to other parts of the island. 

Hotels in Santorini 😴

Getting t o Santorini

By Ferry: Several ferries run a day from Athens . The normal ferry takes around 7 hours, and the high-speed boat (which is a bit more expensive) takes just under 5 hours.

Find your ferry tickets here

By Plane: The island has a domestic airport which has regular flights coming to and from Athens . Additionally, in the summer, flights are running daily to other major European cities. 

By car: Are you going island hopping in Greece by car and ferry? Great idea! Rent a car from a local car rental company through Sunny Cars . You are also standard fully insured via Sunny Cars. Book your rental car here .

Day 5-9: Milos

Milos has a heart-stopping beauty and is exceptionally diverse in its landscapes. The island offers underwater caves, mountains, and hilltop vineyards all in one trip! It’s not as well known as Santorini, meaning it’s much quieter and has a much more remote feel. It’s absolutely incredible to drive across the island by scooter, off-road, and visit secret coves and some of the best snorkeling spots in Greece.

Read more: Complete Milos Travel Guide

The most striking thing of all in Milos is its white flat top cliffs and unique rock formations. These unusual features have led travelers to compare it to the moon!

Another special sight are the colorful fishing villages of Milos. Instead of the typical blue and white houses, the locals have decorated their doors with rainbow colors. 

Tip: There are many beaches on the island that can’t be reached on foot or by car. Instead, join one of the many great sailing trips to get you there.

Where to Stay in Milos 

Plaka, Milos, a fantastic spot near the harbor with excellent amenities. Consider Trypiti or Adamantas as alternatives for accommodation on the island.

Hotels in Milos 😴

Getting to Milos

By Ferry: From Santorini, you can take a high-speed ferry to Milos in just two hours. During peak season (May-September), ferries leave twice a day. During the winter, this goes down to about 7 times a week. The average price is around 45 EUR for the high-speed ferry, but it’s cheaper if you choose the slow boat. 

Get your ferry tickets here

By Plane: It’s also possible to fly to Milos from Santorini; however, be aware that you’ll have to go via Athens , making the trip longer. For this reason, the ferry is the popular choice.

Day 10-12: Mykonos

Mykonos is the most lively island on your Greek island-hopping itinerary. It offers a good balance between relaxing on beautiful beaches and enjoying the buzzing nightlife. However, you don’t have to be a party animal to enjoy Mykonos. There are still many quiet corners of the island that are perfect for a romantic getaway or unwind after a Greek island-hopping adventure! Particularly in the north of the island, you’ll find remote beaches like Panormos. These beaches have crystal clear water and a cooling breeze.

When you’re done relaxing, head to Mykonos town, where you can find the charming Matogianni Street. The street has the traditional cobbled stones, which lead between boutique shops and walls full of bougainvillea flowers. While you’re in town, don’t forget to check out the windmills that are iconic to the island, as well as Little Venice .

Where to Stay in Mykonos 

In Mykonos town, you can find reasonably priced accommodation that keeps you close to all the amenities. If you want to stay next to the sea, you’ll need to budget for a bit more, as this is a popular vacation option.

Hotels in Mykonos 😴

Getting to Mykonos

By Ferry: From Milos, you can take a high-speed ferry in just under 3 hours to Mykonos. The high-speed option price averages between 40-60 EUR per person. In the winter months, the ferry services between the two islands are normally suspended. During this time, you’ll need to change boats at Santorini.

By Plane: There are no flights between Santorini and Mykonos. Consider changing your Greece itinerary if you’d prefer to fly. However, the ferries are a perfect option!

Leaving Greece? If you’re heading home from Mykonos, there are plenty of domestic leaving daily to the main hub of Athens and a few international flights to cities like Paris and Amsterdam . Additionally, in the summer months, there are many options for flights to other big cities in Europe . 

Extending Your Greece Itinerary

For those that have more time, there are many(!) other stunning islands to explore on your trip to Greece! For example, Naxos or Paros . Both islands have some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece, and they’re well connected to the other islands by ferry.

Naxos has a wonderfully laid-back vibe which makes it very popular for couples and families. It has a slow pace of life, with traditional villages, tavernas, and great beaches and hiking trails for those who want to explore nature. Its landscapes are wide and open, with long sandy beaches and huge valleys full of olive groves. Because of this, you can sometimes feel like you’re the only person on the island! 

Tip: visit the Temple of Apollo: a huge marble archway that sits next to the sea, dating back to 530 BC!

Paros is a livelier alternative to Naxos. By day, visitors can relax in its beautiful secluded coves, and by night there are lots of luxurious cocktail bars and restaurants to choose from. There are also beautiful towns to explore, with boutiques that make it a haven for shopping. If you head inland, you’ll discover some ancient villages that have been beautifully preserved. 

Read: Best Things to do in Paros, Greece .

Your budget for Greece

Although Greece is known for its affordable way of life (products such as olive oil are cheap, and you can find authentic food for very reasonable prices), the popularity of the Greek islands means that prices can be high.

However, there are always ways to budget during your trip. For example, choosing to stay in guesthouses in the towns, rather than expensive beachside resorts or use the local busses instead of taxis. What’s more, once you’re on the islands, exploring the beaches and nature is totally free! Renting a car is also an affordable option. ( See the rental cars here )

Costs of Traveling in Greece

Travel on a budget in Greece, from $580 − $1000 USD weekly per person, mid-range $1210 − $2670 USD, and high-end from $2590 − $4120 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

• Hotels: $80 − $400 USD Check available hotels
• Hostels: $30 − $90 USD Check available hostels
• Transport: $25 − $50 USD Book public transport
• Car Rental: $30 − $100 USD Book a rental car
• Food: $15 − $50 USD
• Activities: $10 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
• Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
• Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to hop around the Greek Islands

Greek island hopping is very popular among travelers, and there’s no better way to explore the beauty of this incredible country. Especially in the summer months, exploring the island’s beaches is the perfect way to relax and cool off! During this time, it’s super easy to go between the islands via ferry or car ferries if you are by car and most trips take just over 2 hours. 

Ferryhopper is a great search tool to use to check out ferry itineraries, compare prices, and book your tickets.

Get your ferry tickets here and book a rental car here .

Island Transportation

Once you’re on the islands, their small size makes them easy to explore. A popular way to do this, is to hire a car, scooter, or ATV. The ATV, in particular, is a great option to take you off-road to those more unexplored beaches, but it mainly gives you a lot of freedom. It’s good to know that all the islands offer public bus services, as well as taxis.

The best option to discover Greece is by car and using the car ferries to hop islands.

We recommend to rent a car in Greece through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Best Time to Travel in Greece

Greece in the summer is absolutely perfect – hot days, cool sea waters, and warm evenings with incredible sunsets. There’s a great atmosphere at this time too, with lots of people traveling to the islands from all over the world.

However, the popularity of summer means it can be jam-packed and expensive. A great alternative is to visit in the spring months of April/May or the fall months of September/October. These shoulder seasons offer mild temperatures, empty beaches, and low prices! It’s the perfect time to explore and get the remote Greek island experience.

By purchasing through our links, you support us at no additional cost. Thank you for your support. ♥️

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Greece via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go

12 Best Things to do in Kefalonia, Greece

9 best things to do in paros, greece , 11 best things to do in athens, greece.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Hello both! This plan looks awesome and I’m definitely thinking about doing it this May! Do you think it’s worth it to add Athens to the trip? I’ve heard a lot of bad things about it and I’m a bit on the fence. Have an awesome day!

Hi Diogo, unfortunately, we can’t say because we’ve never been, sorry! The islands are incredible though.

I loved Athens! I think it’s definitely worth going there :) Nice vibes in most neighborhoods, the history and architecture some nice roof top terraces. Yes for me 100% worth it!

Thanks! I’ve added Athens to my itinerary I’m so pumped!

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Greece Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

It’s also super affordable.

You can travel around Greece for a fraction of what you’d spend in Western Europe, which is just one of the many reasons why I absolutely love visiting Greece.

I’ve been to Greece four times and have spent months exploring this country. I cannot say enough good things about it.

Visiting Greece is always the highlight of my summer European travels. There’s just something magical about this country. There’s an energy in the air and you can’t help but think, “Maybe I should never leave?” It sucks you in.

And, while the Greek islands get the most attention, the interior of the country — with its small towns, historic ruins, and mountain hikes — is too often overlooked and underappreciated.

So, while you may have a strong desire to stick to the islands, try to get to some of the places in the interior if you can. You won’t regret it.

This Greece travel guide combines all my knowledge and experience to help you plan an epic, affordable trip!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Greece

Click Here for Island and City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in greece.

1. Visit the Acropolis

Located in Athens , this magnificent hilltop complex from the 5th century BCE includes ancient buildings and ruins like the temple to Athena and the famous Parthenon. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an excellent place to learn about the city’s history. You’ll also get to enjoy an expansive view of the skyline and the nearby ruins. During the summer, it’s swarming with tourists so get there early. Admission is 20 EUR, or for 30 EUR you can get a 5-day combined ticket that includes many other archaeological sites in Athens. For a guided tour, Athens Walking Tours runs guided tours for around 50 EUR (including admission) that skip the line.

2. Discover historic Crete

Crete has a long, long history. It was once home to the ancient Minoan civilization (which predated Greek civilization), and you can still visit the Bronze Age ruins of Knossos, the ancient capital of the Minoan empire (also considered the oldest city in Europe). The island is the largest in all of Greece and has beautiful beaches (including a beach with pink sand), plentiful hiking, quaint towns, and delicious food and wine. It’s affordable and because of the island’s size, you can still escape the summer crowds. Don’t skip this island!

3. Hike up Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the legendary home of the Greek gods. Any climb to Mount Olympus starts from the town of Litochoro, 150 kilometers (93 miles) south of Thessaloniki. At 2,917 meters (9,570 feet) high, it’s the tallest mountain in Greece. The hike up is both strenuous and mystical. As you climb, it becomes abundantly clear why Greeks thought it was this mountain from which the gods ruled!

4. See Meteora’s monasteries

Meteora is famous for its monasteries that sit atop sheer rock mountains . They are a stunning sight to see and worth the steep trek up to the top. The monasteries date back to the 9th-10th centuries when Orthodox Christian hermit monks isolated themselves on the cliffs and in the many caves in the area. In the 12th century, the monastic community became more organized and in the 14th century the Great Meteoron Monastery was constructed (one of the ones that you can visit today). Although more than twenty monasteries used to perch on these sandstone cliffs, only six remain today. They are still active, with around 50 nuns and 17 monks living here. It’s a 3 EUR entrance fee per monastery.

5. Explore the islands

Other things to see and do in greece, 1. learn some history.

Greece is where western civilization began and everywhere you turn you’ll find ruins that are thousands of years old. Start in Athens with the museums, the Acropolis and surrounding ruins in the Agora, and then set off to explore the ruins of Delphi, Sparta , Corinth, and Crete . There are also great archaeological museums everywhere to see artifacts up close and learn even more. This country is a history lover’s dream!

2. Explore Sparta

Sparta was the ancient rival of Athens and known for its fierce warriors (the entertaining but historically-inaccurate film 300 was based on the Spartans). The city has a long history and plenty of ruins to explore. There is no shortage of things to do , museums to visit, excursions to take, and places to eat when you visit the city. It’s an often-overlooked city even though it’s only a 2.5-hour drive southwest of Athens. It’s a great place to learn some history without the crowds.

3. Attend the Athens Epidaurus Festival

Every summer, the Athens Epidaurus Festival hosts concerts and performance theater, including reenactments of famous Greek plays. Started in 1955, it’s one of the country’s top cultural events and runs for the whole summer (May-October). If it coincides with your visit, you’ll see just how proud the Greeks are of their past. Tickets for each performance cost as little as 10 EUR.

4. Soak up the sun in Corfu

The Cyclades Islands may get all the press but sunny Corfu on Greece’s west coast is also a good place to enjoy the beach too. It’s a popular destination for young backpackers, but once you get out of the main town, you can avoid them and their partying ways and get the island to yourself! There are plenty of quiet beaches, ancient ruins, and beautiful villages to explore. You’re just a stone’s throw away from Albania too.

5. Explore the Delphi Ruins

Delphi was a place of spiritual significance to the ancient Greeks. Located around 2.5 hours northwest of Athens, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is where the omniscient Oracle would contact the god Apollo and give his advice to those seeking good fortune. Although the eternal flame no longer burns inside the temple, a visit to the Temple of Apollo is obligatory if you’re nearby. Admission is 12 EUR and includes entry to the museum as well as the archaeological site itself (which includes far more than just the Temple of Apollo).

6. Explore Melissani Cave

This otherworldly cave grotto can be accessed by a short yet postcard-worthy boat tour. Located on the island of Kefalonia on the western side of Greece, here you can admire the seemingly magical ultramarine waters and the monumental walls that envelope you as you make your way through this hidden underground landscape. Admission is 8 EUR and includes the boat ride.

7. Hike the Samaria Gorge

Samaria Gorge in beautiful Crete is one of Greece’s National Parks and a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is considered one of the best hikes in Greece. While it isn’t the shortest or easiest trek (it’s 16 kilometers/10 miles), the gorge does promise beautiful landscapes, fantastic photo opportunities, and a great workout. Make sure you bring water, sunscreen, and a hat as the heat can be overwhelming. The views are worth it though!

8. Experience the Patras Carnival

Every year in mid-January, the city of Patras (located 2.5 hours west of Athens) hosts what is basically a month-and-a-half-long party that starts on January 17th and runs to the beginning of Lent. There’s a slew of events both major and minor, increasingly crazy weekends, treasure hunts, and various costume parades (which even feature floats). It’s a lively time and as the largest such festival in Greece, attracting tons of revelers. If you want to attend, it’s a good idea to make hotel reservations well in advance as things fill up.

9. Tour the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion

The number one attraction in Crete , this museum also happens to be Greece’s second-largest archaeological museum (the museum in Athens is the largest). There is a stunning collection here that highlights the Cretan civilization (dating back from Neolithic times through to the Roman empire), with ancient pottery, jewelry, sarcophagi, colorful frescoes from Knossos, and more. Its Minoan collection is the most extensive in the world. You could easily spend hours here — especially if you love history like me. Admission is 12 EUR in the summer and 6 EUR in the winter.

10. Party on Ios

Ios has the wildest nightlife out of all the Greek islands. It is the summer party island where days are spent hungover on the beach and the nights are spent eating cheap food and drinking. If you don’t want to do that but still want to see Ios, it’s best to go to the eastern part of the island where it’s quieter. Don’t let Ios’ party reputation deter you from visiting though, it’s a beautiful, rugged island (and home to the grave of Homer, who wrote The Iliad and The Odyssey). It’s only busy from June-August so you can visit in the shoulder season to escape the party crowd.

11. Visit Thessaloniki

With more than 1 million inhabitants, Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city after Athens. Although it dates back to 315 BCE, a lot of the city was destroyed by fire in 1917 and then by bombing during World War II. The result is a combination of more modern European city urban planning alongside Early Christian, Roman, and Byzantine monuments. In fact, Thessaloniki has more UNESCO World Heritage Sites (15!) than any other city in Europe. Be sure to visit the White Tower, the Rotunda, the Arch of Galerius, and Galerius Palace as well as the many churches (such as the Hagia Sofia and Hagios Demetrios). There are also several great museums here, including the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Byzantine Culture, the Jewish Museum, and the Olympic Museum.

12. Go to Zakynthos

Just south of Kefalonia in the Ionian Sea is Zakynthos , one of Greece’s most popular islands. With its soft, sandy beaches and charming villages, it’s easy to see why this island is a fan favorite. It can be busy, particularly in the summer, so head away from the main tourist area (go north, west or inland) or visit in the off-season to escape the crowds. Zakynthos is also a breeding area for loggerhead turtles and you can see them on Lagana Beach or on Turtle Island but take care to do so responsibly. Other activities include seeing the Blue Caves, Marathonisi Islet, and Shipwreck Beach (you’ll need to take a boat tour to get there). There are also tons of churches, monasteries, and ruins to check out too.

13. Visit Monemvasia

Monemvasia is a medieval castle town in Laconia, around 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Sparta . It’s a spectacular island to visit as it is built into the side of a huge rock! Monemvasia’s a quiet town perfect for relaxing on the beach before dining under the stars at seaside taverns or on cobbled streets in the town. If you’re into hiking, there are some trails that will take you past chapels and settlements up to hilltops to admire the view or down to secluded beaches.

14. Explore Ioannina

Next to Lake Pamvotida in northwestern Greece, Ioannina is a castle town that is bursting with museums. Don’t miss the Byzantine Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, the Archaeological Museum, and the Silversmithing Museum (the area is well-known for its beautiful jewelry). Head to the castle at sunset for a peaceful end to your day. You can use the town as a base for exploring the nearby Pindus National Park, the Tzoumerka mountain chain, the Cave of Perama, and the Byzantine town of Arta as well. You won’t need more than a couple of days here but it is well worth stopping if you are passing through.

15. Go wine tasting

While Greece isn’t as internationally renowned for wine as other European countries such as France or Spain, it should be. The Greek wine-making tradition goes back at least 6,500 years and is still going strong. Wine regions are spread across the country, but Crete has one of the oldest wine-making traditions (and over 30 wineries to visit around the island), while the wineries of Santorini make for an interesting tour due to the way that grape vines must be grown here (to protect against harsh winds). Wine tours generally are around 85-125 EUR for a full-day tour.

16. Take a cooking class

Greek food is legendary. If you’re a foodie like me and want to learn more about the cuisine and culture behind it, try a cooking class . Bring a taste of your trip home by learning how to make some traditional recipes (including favorites like tzatziki and moussaka) while learning about the importance of each dish directly from a local chef. Cooking classes generally last 3-4 hours and cost 90-120 EUR.

17. Take a boat tour

A boat tour is one of the best ways to see the islands, especially as some beaches are only accessible by water. Most tours also have stops for snorkeling and lounging on the beach, and many include drinks and lunch. Half-day tours start at 50 EUR, while full-day tours are around 100 EUR.

18. Go diving

Diving has become increasingly popular in the Greek Islands. On Mykonos , Paradise Reef has a large variety of marine life, including sponges, barracuda, octopus, and starfish. Ios is popular with beginners due to its crystal-clear waters and relatively calm waves. On the other hand, Santorini has less marine life but tons of shipwrecks. Shore dives are generally 40-50 EUR, while a two-tank dive on a boat is 90-120 EUR. You can also take a beginner discovery course for 55 EUR or a variety of PADI courses starting at 280 EUR.

19. Tour an olive oil farm

  For more information on specific destinations in Greece, check out these guides:

• Athens Travel Guide
• Corfu Travel Guide
• Crete Travel Guide
• Ios Travel Guide
• Mykonos Travel Guide
• Naxos Travel Guide
• Santorini Travel Guide
• Sparta Travel Guide

Greece Travel Costs

A room in a budget hotel that sleeps two can be found for 40-60 EUR (expect much higher prices — up to 50% higher — during the summer). Amenities at these hotels typically include free Wi-Fi, TV, a private bathroom, AC, and sometimes breakfast as well.

On Airbnb, you can find private rooms for 25-45 EUR in many cities and entire homes (including studio apartments) start at around 70 EUR per night.

Food – Greece is known for its food. Think seasonal vegetables (like olives), seafood, grilled meats, bread, feta cheese, and yogurt — all the staples of a fresh Mediterranean diet. To eat cheap, stick with eating gyros, souvlaki, and kebabs. These cost 2-5 EUR and easily fill you up. If you’re on a budget, you can live off these for as little as 10 EUR per day.

At a casual restaurant that serves traditional cuisine, expect to pay around 8-12 EUR for a main dish like moussaka and about 2-4 EUR for a glass of wine. A Greek salad costs between 6-8 EUR. Fish is more expensive, costing around 17-22 EUR for the catch-of-the-day.

Most restaurants charge for bread. The price is between .50-1.50 EUR. A bottle of water is about 2 EUR.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 7 EUR for a combo meal. A large pizza costs 8-10 EUR while Indian/Middle Eastern/Chinese food can be found for around 6 EUR for a main dish.

If you’re going out for dinner at a traditional taverna, expect to spend between 12-20 EUR depending on how much food you get. After that, the prices go up depending on how fancy the restaurant is!

Beer is 2-4 EUR while a latte/cappuccino is 3-4 EUR. Bottled water from the supermarket is 0.50 EUR.

If you cook your meals, expect to pay 30-50 EUR per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. It’s easy to eat on the cheap in Greece.

Backpacking Greece Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Greece, my suggested budget is 40-60 EUR per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel, eating cheap food, cooking some of your meals, doing only free activities like hiking and relaxing on the beach, limiting your drinking, and using local transportation to get around. If you’re visiting the Greek islands or traveling during peak season, expect to spend on the higher amount of that. If you plan on drinking, add 5-15 EUR per day to your budget.

On a mid-range budget of 100-130 EUR per day, you can visit some museums and ruins, stay at a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out more, enjoy some drinks, take the occasional taxi, and rent a bike or scooter to get around.

If you keep your drinking and costly activities down, you can easily do this closer to 100 EUR per day. On the other hand, if you’re staying on one of the more expensive islands like Mykonos or Santorini and drinking a lot, expect to spend closer to 150-180 EUR.

On a “luxury” budget of 235 EUR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you want, do paid tours and more expensive activities (like diving), rent a car to get around, and generally enjoy the finer things in life! This is just the ground floor for luxury though. Expect to pay upwards of 50 EUR more per day on the islands.

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in EUR.

Greece Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Greece is affordable. Sure, islands like Santorini and Mykonos are expensive but, for the most part, if you are “keeping it local” you aren’t going to spend a lot of money here. Here are my favorite ways to save money when you travel to Greece:

• Use the Greek salad/bread rule – If the bread cover is .50 EUR or a Greek salad is less than 7 EUR, the restaurant is cheap. If the cover is around 1 EUR and a salad is 7-8.50 EUR, the prices are average. Anything more than that and the place is expensive. use this rule to figure out how to eat at cheap restaurants.
• Eat super cheap – Gyros and other street snacks only cost a few euros and can keep you full for 10 EUR per day if you’re on a tight budget.
• Rent a moped – It’s cheaper than a car and a fun way to see the various towns and cities — especially on the islands. You can usually rent a moped for around 15 EUR per day. Just drive carefully as Greek drivers tend to be aggressive.
• Get off the beaten path – Greece is a cheap country and even cheaper when you get away from the touristy islands or popular destinations. Head off the beaten path and you usually see prices drop by 30% or more.
• Book overnight ferries – Greece’s inter-island ferries can get expensive if you are visiting a lot of islands. Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price. Plus, it saves you a night of accommodation. Moreover, if you book the ferries around two months in advance, you can save up to 25% off the cost of your ticket.
• Get a ferry pass – Eurail has a ferry pass that has 4- and 6-trip options. The only caveat is that you can only take Blue Star and Hellenic Seaways ferries. Those tend to be the larger, slower ferries and, depending on the islands, might require you to connect somewhere. You’ll need to research routes in advance to see if the pass is worth it. I would search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you. You can purchase your pass on Eurail (non-EU residents) or Interrail (EU residents).
• Take public transportation – Buses, while sometimes running on inconvenient schedules, are the best way to get around Greece. Taxis are very expensive so minimize their use whenever you can and stick with the buses.
• Visit in the off-season – July and August are the most expensive months, so skip the middle of summer if you’re on a budget. Prices will be significantly cheaper.
• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing is a great way to get a free place to stay and meet locals. There are a ton of hosts throughout the country (I stayed with one in Athens) and it’s my favorite way to get to know the “real” Greece.
• Buy wine at the store – You can buy a great bottle of wine for around 4 EUR at the store. It’s a lot cheaper than drinking at the bar.
• Have an ISIC Card – To save on the cost of admission to museums and other tourist attractions, be sure to present a valid student card. The ISIC is typically accepted in places where a foreign student ID is not.
• Go to museums on their free admission days – Most museums have some days when admission is free. Check the Odysseus Culture website for details as they vary from museum to museum.
• Get combined tickets – Historical attractions in Greece are often priced so that it’s always a better deal to buy a combined ticket. If the sites you are going to offer one, buy it. It will save you money.
• Use points if you can – If you have points that can be used for cash, using them to book accommodation can save you a ton of money. This post has more information on how to start collecting and using points and miles
• Rent a car – Car rentals can be incredibly cheap in Greece. Prices start at just 20 EUR per day when booked in advance. Drivers need to be at least 21 and have had their license for one year. An International Driving Permit is also required.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Greece

Greece has something for everything and you can often find small family-run operations on the islands. It’s not hard to even find budget accommodations with nice extra like pools either! Here are my suggested places to stay in Greece:

• Selina (Athens)
• Athens Hawks Hostel (Athens)
• BedBox (Athens)
• Athens Hub (Athens)
• Studio Eleni (Mykonos)
• Caveland (Santorini)
• Fira’s Backpacker Place (Santorini)
• Bedspot Hostel (Santorini)
• Asterolithos Hotel (Santorini)
• Youth Hostel Plakias (Crete)
• Rethymno Youth Hostel (Crete)
• Cocoon City (Crete)
• Intra Muros (Crete)
• The Pink Palace (Corfu)
• Angelica’s Backpacker’s Hostel (Corfu)
• Francesco’s (Ios)
• FarOut Beach Club (Ios)
• FarOut Camping (Ios)
• Castle View Camping and Bungalows (Sparta)
• Lakonia Hotel (Sparta)

How to Get Around Greece

Buses – KTEL is the main bus operator in Greece. You can look up schedules and prices online, but their website is pretty outdated and you’re better off booking tickets at the actual bus station. Getting from Athens to Sparta takes around 3.5 hours and costs around 20 EUR, while Athens to Thessaloniki takes around 5.5 hours and costs around 35 EUR. Thessaloniki to Ioannina takes 3.5 hours and is just 13 EUR.

Trains – Train travel in Greece isn’t great. Trains are unreliable and slow and there are only a few routes in the country between Athens and other major cities, like Thessaloniki and Patras. You’re better off driving or taking the bus. However, if you do get the train, a trip from Athens to Thessaloniki takes about 4.5 hours and costs at least 20 EUR.

Ferries – Because Greece has a lot of islands, you have to deal with taking ferries to get around. Expect to spend an average of 35 EUR per trip, though you could spend as little as 12 EUR if the islands are really close together. From Athens, most ferries to the Cyclades cost around 70 EUR.

Taking the overnight ferries can save you up to half off the normal price plus save you a night of accommodation so if you’re not in a rush, book those!

There are many different ferry companies, and most are created equal. High speed ferries or catamarans cost a lot more (book in advance). You can research routes and ticket prices using FerryHopper and gtp.gr .

If you’re ok traveling on the slower ferries and your routes match the available routes, the Eurail/Interrail ferry pass is worth considering as you’ll get discounts with this pass. Search routes on FerryHopper to see if it works for you.

Flying – Flying is a quick and affordable way to get around Greece and between islands (though not all islands have airports). A one-way flight from Athens to Santorini or Mykonos takes less than one hour and costs around 25-35 EUR. Flights can dip to as little as 10 EUR when booked in advance.

Scooter/Quad rentals – Renting a scooter or ATV is a really popular way to discover many parts of Greece, particularly the islands. It lets you explore at your own pace and is quite affordable. Scooter rentals cost between 15-25 EUR per day depending on the location and if it is peak season or off-season. ATVs cost around 30-45 EUR per day.

Car rental – Car rentals here are super affordable, starting at just 20 EUR per day for a multi-day rental. Expect manual transmissions. Drivers need an International Driving Permit before renting as well and need to be at least 21 years old. For the best rental car deals, use Discover Cars

When to Go to Greece

Peak season in Greece is from June-August. Temperatures hover around 33°C (92°F) and popular destinations like Santorini and Mykonos experience a huge influx of visitors. Prices increase during this time as well. But the overall atmosphere and weather are great during this time, so it’s still worth visiting during peak season.

Personally, I think the best time to visit Greece is shoulder season (March-May and September-October). It’s still warm during these times but there aren’t as many crowds and prices are cheaper. It’s also easier to meet locals during this time. Overall, it’s a particularly great time to hang out in the Mediterranean.

Winter is from November to February. It gets cold and tourist crowds thin out considerably. Temperatures vary quite a bit from north to south, with it sometimes dropping to 11°C (52°F) in some places (Athens sometimes gets snow). Many of the islands — particularly Santorini and Mykonos — almost shut down entirely during the off-season. In short, I’d skip a winter visit unless you’re only planning to visit museums.

How to Stay Safe in Greece

Greece is very safe for backpacking and solo travel. Violent attacks are uncommon. Petty crime is about the worst that could happen to you, specifically pickpocketing in Athens, where it is prevalent. Fortunately, Greek police have really cracked down on perpetrators. Nevertheless, be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables out of sight when you’re in markets, on busy streets, or when using public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

You won’t find a lot of travel scams in the country but read this article on common travel scams to avoid if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you go out hiking, always check the weather first. Bring sunscreen, water, and a hat. It can get incredibly hot here!

Be careful when driving as Greek drivers tend to be on the aggressive side and some of the roads aren’t very well maintained.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Greece Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• Ferry Hopper – If you’re looking to book your ferries, this website is an easy way to search the various companies, piece together routes, and book your tickets.
• Take Walks – This walking tour company provides inside access to attractions and places you can’t get elsewhere. Their guides rock and they have some of the best and most insightful tours in all of Greece.

Greece Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Greece travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Athens

The 6 Best Hostels in Athens

Where to Stay in Athens: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The Best Walking Tours in Athens

Traveling Greece: How Much Does It Cost?

Fulfilling Childhood Dreams in Crete

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• Where To Stay
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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Greek Island Hopping Guide – Greek Islands Travel Blog

Turn your Greek island hopping dreams into reality with this guide to visiting the best Greek islands. I'll show you how to book a ferry easily, which Greek islands to visit, and more!

This guide contains information on how to get around the Greek islands, the different island chains in Greece, travel tips and inside knowledge based on my experiences of having lived and traveled around Greece for over 6 years.

So you want to go Island Hopping in Greece…

One vacation. 227 inhabited Greek islands. Where do you begin? I've written this guide to Greek Island Hopping with the aim of keeping it simple.

As such, if you're really only interested in the classic Athens – Mykonos – Santorini itinerary, take a short cut and check out my guide here: 7 Day Athens, Santorini, Mykonos itinerary .

Also, if you really only want to know how to book a Greek ferry ticket online quickly and easily, go directly to this site: Ferryhopper .

But if you want to know more, make yourself a nice cup of tea frappe , and let's get started!

Greece island-hopping

If you're new to traveling in Greece, you should know that the country consists of the mainland, and then thousands of different islands. Of these islands, approximately 220 are inhabited.

These Greek islands are grouped together in island ‘chains'. Perhaps the most famous Greek island chain is the Cyclades, where you'll find the well-known destinations of Mykonos and Santorini.

Greek Island Groups

The full list of island chains in Greece are:

• The Cyclades
• The Ionian Islands
• The Argosaronic Islands
• The Sporades
• The Dodecanese
• The North Aegean Islands
• Crete and Cretan islands
• Evia and surrounding islands

The size of the islands can vary a lot. Crete is the biggest Greek island, with an area of 8,336 km2 and a population of 635,000 people.

Compare this with tiny Agathonisi in the Dodecanese with its population of less than 175 people and area of 13.5 km2, and you can see that you will have very different experiences in each of these places!

I've a guide here to the 10 largest Greek islands you might want to read.

How to get to the Greek islands

Before you begin traveling around the Greek islands, you'll need to get to one of them first! Some of the larger and more popular islands, like Crete, Zakynthos, and Rhodes, have their own international airports. Check out my guide here to Greek islands with airports . 

Other islands have airports, but they are not international. This means they may only have domestic connections with Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion or other notable cities in Greece . 

The vast majority of Greek islands do not have airports at all. The only way to reach these islands is by ferry. 

Ferries in Greece

The Greek ferry network is a complex behemoth, consisting of dozens of individual companies, some of which are affiliated with each other, some of which are not. 

As with any industry, you'll find that there are a handful of larger companies which dominate the market such as Blue Star Ferries and SeaJets. You'll also find small family run ferry operators though. It really depends which Greek island you plan to travel to. 

I've a (VERY) geeky article here you might want to check out if you're ever bored: Ferries in Greece

These ferries leave from ferry ports all around the mainland of Greece, and each of the inhabited islands have their own ferry port as well. It makes up quite an intricate spiders web of ferry routes crisscrossing around the country.

I find that for most of my Greek island hopping route planning, Ferryhopper is the best site to use to see what ferries go where. 

Getting around the Greek islands

Once you've arrived at your first Greek island, you'll at some point want to move on to the next one. At this point you've truly began your Greek island hopping experience!

The only way to travel between the Greek islands is by ferry, as although some Greek islands have airports, flights between the islands themselves are almost non-existent. 

Popular islands may have ferries leaving every hour for many different destinations. Other islands may only have two or three ferries per week arriving and departing.

Also read: Best time to visit Greece

Travel Tips for Greek Island Hopping

I think you'll find the following travel tips useful as you start looking where you want to go Greek island-hopping.

These tips have come from my own experiences, as well as those of readers who have left me comments and sent emails. In my opinion, these Greek island hopping tips are essential before you book anything!

1. Look at a map of Greece

More than once, someone has asked how they can go island hopping between Santorini and Zakynthos. The answer being, with great difficulty!

It really pays to look at a map, and then narrow down the places you'd like to visit. For most people, this means choosing an island chain (for example the Cyclades), and then looking at which islands best suit them.

Greek island hopping routes are best done either within one island chain, or neighboring chains.

2. Which ferry service to use in Greece?

I've used most of the Greek ferry companies now, and there's not much difference between them. You'll probably narrow down your choice by the most convenient crossing and price in any case. Generally speaking, the faster the ferry the more expensive it is.

3. How to book a Greek ferry ticket

Time was you used to have to go to an office to buy tickets. Now, most tickets can be bought online. I personally use Ferryhopper . It's an easy to use platform, and reliable. Probably one of the best places to plan island-hopping in Greece.

4. Don't book a hotel first

Don't make the mistake of booking a hotel first which might be non-refundable, and then looking for connections between the islands after. If no connection exists, you've lost out.

When you do book a hotel, use Booking . After you've used it a few times, you'll be given ‘genius level' which gives you discounts.

5. Best Time To Go Greek Island Hopping

May through to October is the best time to go Greek island hopping. From November until May, ferry services may be reduced to some of the islands. Additionally, tourism all but closes down on the islands.

There are exceptions, as the off season months such as November can be a good time to visit Santorini as there are far fewer tourists.

6. Cheapest Time To Go Greek Island Hopping

Forget July and August, when hotel prices are higher. You might also want to skip high end destinations such as Mykonos and Santorini altogether if you want to plan a budget island hopping itinerary.

Instead, travel slower, and for longer, and to the quieter small Greek islands. You can still get nice 30 Euro a night rooms (and cheaper!) on the islands if you look hard enough. A lot of Greek islands also have camping, so if you're on a budget, bring your tent when Greece island hopping.

Related: Cheap places in Greece

7. Strong winds can be STRONG

I'd never heard of the Beaufort Scale of measuring wind before I moved to Greece. Now I know it intimately! Strong winds known as the Meltemi can plague some of the Cycladic islands during August. In fact, they can sometimes be strong enough that the ferries cannot sail. 

This is nature at her finest, and nothing that can be predicted. I would suggest that you arrange to fly into Athens from your last island rather than rely on a ferry. That way, you won't miss the flight home. Although I guess there are worse places to be stuck than in Greece!

Do you have any travel tips for island hopping Greece you'd like to add? Please leave a comment below, and I'll include them in the blog post!

Guides To The Best Greek Islands To Travel

And now on to the Greek island guides themselves. I haven't had the time to visit every single island in Greece, but it now numbers in the dozens.

Those Greek island names that I have visited, I've written travel guides about. Here's what I have for you…

Cycladic Islands Travel Guides

When most people think about Greek islands, they've probably got images of Santorini and Mykonos in mind. These are two of the Cycladic islands, but there are dozens more.

I've not been to all of the Cycladic islands yet… but I'm getting there! I've got a post here about all 24 inhabited Cycladic islands in Greece .

You can get to some islands in the Cyclades by international flight. Others, you'll need to travel to by ferry. Read how to get from Athens to Greek islands in the Cyclades islands for more information.

When it comes to putting together a Greek island hopping itinerary, the Cyclades are a great starting point. They are well connected with Athens, and there are many ferry services between the islands.

These are the Cycladic island travel guides I have so far that may help you put together a Greek island itinerary:

• Best time to go to Santorini
• How to get to Santorini
• How to get around Santorini
• Where to stay in Santorini
• Santorini in May
• Santorini in October
• Santorini in November
• Random facts about Santorini
• How to get from Athens to Santorini by ferry
• Crete to Santorini by ferry
• Santorini Airport Transfers made easy
• Best Santorini hotels with a sunset view
• How to book a Santorini hotel with breaking the bank
• One day Santorini itinerary
• Two day Santorini itinerary
• Three day Santorini itinerary
• Day Trips from Santorini
• Wine tasting in Santorini
• Best Beaches in Santorini
• Red Beach Santorini
• Hiking from Fira to Oia in Santorini
• Best Santorini tours and excursions
• Best boat tours in Santorini
• Santorini Island Hopping
• Why visit Mykonos?
• Best time to visit Mykonos
• How to get from Athens to Mykonos
• How to get from Mykonos Airport to Mykonos Town
• Mykonos Airport Taxi Guide
• Where to stay in Mykonos
• Hotels on the beach in Mykonos
• One day in Mykonos itinerary
• 3 days in Mykonos itinerary and travel guides
• Best Mykonos tours and day trips
• Best beaches in Mykonos
• Islands Near Mykonos
• How to get to Milos
• Where to stay in Milos
• Best things to do in Milos
• ATV Rental Milos
• Milos Travel Tips
• Best day trips in Milos
• Where to eat – Best restaurants in Milos
• Best beaches in Milos
• Sarakiniko Beach in Milos
• Kleftiko Milos
• Hiking in Milos
• The most awesome Milos boat tour
• How to get from Milos to Kimolos
• Ferries from Milos to other Cyclades islands
• Where to stay in Kimolos
• Best beaches in Kimolos
• Where to eat in Kimolos
• Goupa Village
• Best time to visit Naxos
• Athens to Naxos Ferry Guide 
• Where to stay in Naxos
• Naxos Tours and Day Trips
• Best beaches in Naxos
• Island hopping from Naxos
• Naxos to Ios Ferry information
• Naxos or Mykonos – Which Greek island is better and why
• Things to do in Paros, Greece – The Complete Guide!
• How to get to Paros
• Where to stay in Paros
• Best beaches in Paros
• Things to do in Parikia when visiting Paros
• Islands near Paros you can visit before or after (Greek Island Hopping)
• Things to do in Donoussa
• Koufonisia island travel guide
• Where to stay in Schinoussa
• Where to stay in Iraklia
• Best hotels in Ios
• Best places to watch the sunset in Ios
• Greek islands to visit after Ios
• How to get from Athens to Ios ferry guide
• How to get from Ios to Sikinos
• Ios to Santorini ferry guide
• How to get from Sikinos to Folegandros

Folegandros

• Where to stay in Folegandros
• Hiking to Katergo Beach in Folegandros
• Islands near Folegandros
• How to get from Folegandros to Kimolos
• Where to stay in Serifos
• Spending a day in Ermoupoli, Syros
• Best Hotels Syros
• Ferries from Syros to other islands
• How to get to Tinos island
• Where to stay in Tinos
• Best hotels in Tinos
• How to get around Tinos Greece
• Islands near Tinos
• How to get to Andros Island Greece
• Where to stay in Andros Greece
• How to get around Andros
• Islands near Andros
• Best hotels in Sifnos
• Things to do in Amorgos

** Travel Guide to Andros and Tinos now available on Amazon! **

Ionian Islands of Greece

Perhaps the other island chain that people associate with Greek island hopping, are the Ionian islands of Greece . Located over on the west coast of mainland Greece, they include popular holiday destinations such as Zakynthos and Corfu.

Whilst many people from outside of Greece might associate these islands with a ‘resort' holiday, they are actually ideal for island hopping. They are not too far apart, and regular ferry services run between the islands.

Zakynthos (Zante)

• Zakynthos airport transfers
• Zakynthos tours and day trips
• Where to stay in Kefalonia
• Ithaca Travel Guide
• Lefkada Travel Guide
• How to get to Paxos

Crete and the Cretan Islands

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands, and has a number of smaller islands surrounding it. Whilst some people seem content with visiting Crete for just a day or two, it really deserves weeks not days.

From Crete, you can island hop either to the Cretan islands (often on a day trip), or further afield to places such as Santorini.

• Where is Crete?
• Best time to visit Crete
• Crete in October for autumn sun
• Athens to Crete All Possible Ways
• Athens to Crete (Chania) by ferry
• Is Chania or Heraklion better?
• How to get from Chania Airport to Chania Town
• Transfers from Heraklion airport
• Heraklion Airport to Heraklion city center
• Best things to do in Heraklion
• Heraklion tours and day trips
• How many days do you need in Heraklion?
• The Palace of Knossos (near Heraklion)
• How to get from Chania to Heraklion
• How to get from Chania to Rethymnon
• Do you need to rent a car in Rethymnon?
• Chania tours and day trips
• Archaeological Museum of Chania
• Eleftherios Venizelos Museum Chania
• Best Crete Tours
• Top 5 experiences in Crete
• Plan a road trip in Crete
• Chrissi Island near Crete
• Crete to Santorini ferry guide

Dodecanese Islands

Although the name seems to indicate that this would be an island chain of 12 islands, there are in fact 15 larger ones and a few smaller ones. Welcome to Greece! Read here about the Dodecanese islands in Greece .

The most famous of the Dodecanese islands is Rhodes.

• What is Rhodes famous for?
• Best Rhodes Day Trips
• Anthony Quinn Bay
• Athens to Rhodes Ferry
• How to get from Rhodes Airport to Rhodes Town
• How to get from Rhodes Airport to Lindos
• Ways to get from Rhodes Airport to Faliraki
• How to get from Rhodes Airport to Pefkos
• Greek islands near Rhodes
• Porto Scoutari Romantic Hotel and Spa
• Where to eat in Patmos
• Where is Kos?
• How to get from Kos Airport to Kefalos
• Kos Airport to Mastichari
• How to get from Kos to Patmos

Saronic Islands

The Saronic islands are the islands closest to Athens. Although there are 30 islands and islets, only 6 of these are inhabited. The popular islands such as Hydra and Aegina make popular day trips or weekend breaks from Athens.

• Hydra, Poros, Aegina islands cruise
• How to get to Hydra
•   Athens to Spetses by Ferry: Schedules, Tickets and Information

Sporades Islands

The Sporades islands are to the north-east of Evia in the Aegean Sea.

• Best things to do in Alonissos
• How to get to Alonissos
• Hiking Petitiri to Chora in Alonissos
• How to get to Skiathos
• Where to stay in Skiathos
• Skiathos to Skopelos Ferry Guide
• How to get to Skopelos
• Where to stay in Skopelos
• Do you need to rent a car in Skopelos?
• Mamma Mia Church in Skopelos
• Agnontas Beach Skopelos

I've still got over 200 Greek islands left to visit and write about. As the Greek saying goes, Siga Siga…

You might also be interested in: Gulet Cruise Around Greece

14 thoughts on “Greek Island Hopping Guide – Greek Islands Travel Blog”

Helpful, informative, and detailed. Thank you for this blog!

Hi Dave. I’ll be meeting my dtr in Athens, from Minnesota, USA on early 5/30/24. She may be coming from Rome. I return to USA 6/15. My thoughts are: Athens either 1st, or last. Meteora, Delphi overnight. Santorini 3 nights, Rhodes 2 nights, Crete 5 nights. Rest for Athens (day trip would be nice.) I’d appreciate best itinerary for first timers to Greece. Your site is most helpful!

Hi Lori, My suggestion would be to fly directly to Rhodes from Athens. After your time in Rhodes, you can then fly to Crete. (Aegean Airlines) From Crete you can get a ferry to Santorini (Check Ferryscanner ) From Santorini you can fly or get a ferry back to Athens. Once in Athens – Delphi is a nice organized day trip. Meteora is the one to think about. There are 2 day trips from Athens available which could be worth considering. ( 2 day Meteora from Athens ) If you’re feeling adventurous, you could rent a car from Athens, drive to Delphi, on to Meteora, and then back to Athens leaving you flexible with time. ( Discover Cars for car rentals) I hope that helps! Dave

Hai Dave , Ola Kala? I love your site about Greece but I am missing more details about Evia. I am going next year May for 33 days to Evia and make a trip from Marmari to Karystos -Agios Apostoloi -Kymi -Alyveri -Nea Styra -Nimborio -Figas and back to Marmari. Do you have any tips for me ( I do not go for swimming) and why are there no schedules for the crossing Rafina-marmari ?

I don’t have a great deal on Evia ( A little article here on Eretria is a bout it I think!). You’ll want to consider renting a car for sure. The Rafina / Marmari crossing schedules will probably not go live until April if I know that company! Right now, the only public schedules are through until the end of this year (2 or 3 ferries a day even in December). So, you can be pretty sure they will sail in May/June ok.

Hi Dave, my husband and I will be visiting Greece for a month. We would like to visit Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes and Kefalonia. What order would you suggest we travel in and the best budget friendly way to do so?

Hi Dianne, All the islands apart from Kefalonia are on the south east of the mainland. Kefalonia is on the west side. Which ever way you do it, you’ll need to transit through Athens to either get to or from Kefalonia. I’d look to see if you can fly directly to any of the islands first. The logical order would be Rhodes – Crete – Santorini – Mykonos – Athens – Kefalonia or vice versa It does depend on the time of year though – checking for rhodes – crete and crete- santorini ferries would be the first thing to do after checking about which island is best to fly to first

Wow, Dave! What a great resource! Thank you! My partner and I (along with our dog) are planning a cycling (e-bikes) trip through Greece in July/August of next year. We are hoping to camp most of the way to save on expenses. I was just wondering how easy it is to find campsites in Greece? Would be difficult to find places to charge e-bikes and, most importantly, are campsites dog friendly?

Do you have any experience with free/wild camping? and do you know of any resources I could use to locate campsites along the way?

Thanks again for a really interesting and informative blog!

Hi Casey, I’m glad you found the info useful so far! In terms of camping, you’ll find campsites mainly along the coastlines rather than inland. They are all dog friendly in my experience. You’d probably need to pay extra to charge the bikes (electricity has an extra charge at Greek campsites normally). For free camping, there’s plenty of olive groves to choose from! Some areas of Greece (such as south Crete) are popular with freecampers who often spend the entire summer camping on the beaches there. There’s a similar setup around the west Peloponnese. I’ve taken a couple of bike tours around Greece, and you might find some useful info in them. You can check them out here: Bike Tours

OK thanks Dave for your response. I think I read somewhere that you can pre book Taxis ? Do you know how that can be done online ?

Hi Chris, Airport (and Piraeus port) taxis can be pre-booked here: Welcome Taxis

Thanks very much. I think, even if I had more time, I’d still choose Rafina as it’s closer to the airport, cheaper to get to and presumably not so crowded ?

Many thanks once again

Great blog and tThanks for a load of comprehensive information about Island hopping.

I have one question which may apply to more than just me so here goes.

My Aegean Airlines flight arrives in Athens at 5.50am on a Tuesday morning. Given that the plane is on time I should be out of the airport by 6.15am latest (no checked in bags)

Two ferries leaves for the Cyclades in the morning. One from Piraeus at 7.25am and the other from Rafina at 7.55am. So my question is should I buy a ticket online in advance or wait until I’m actually there in the port (in case of delays and non refundable tickets) ?

Thanks in advance

Hi Chris, In my opinion there’s no way you can make the 7.25 am from Piraeus. (At least it’s not worth the risk). The 7.55 from Rafina is better, but you’d have to get a taxi I think. Also, it would be more straightforward to buy the ticket at Rafina port, as the offices as easier to find and so much closer to the port as it’s smaller. Assuming you’re not travelling in August, buying at the port is perhaps the better option, but I’d book it online if it was me so I could go straight through to the ship.

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My Greece Travel Blog

Hi, my name is Pavlos and I blog about Greece and the greek islands.🌴🍹

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Pick your destination from the list below and start diving into the most useful info you can probably find online. See below for more pictures and information about Santorini:

• Best Greek islands
• Best Time to visit Greece
• Best Family Resorts in Greece
• Best Family Villas in Greece
• Best Beaches in Greece
• Greece Honeymoon
• Best Greek Islands for Families
• Best Greek Islands for Couples
• Best Greek Islands for Older Couples
• When is Summer in Greece?
• Best Things to Do in Greece
• Tipping in Greece: when and how much?
• Best Greek Beers

RECOMMENDED WEBSITES FOR GREECE:

🛏️ Booking.com   is the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

⛴️ Ferryhopper   is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

🏺 Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

🚙 Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

✈️ Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

🚕 Book Your Driver (Taxi) directly with booking.com’s large and safe platform of available certified drivers

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• Best Things to Do in Santorini
• Best Things to Do in Oia
• Best Things to Do in Pyrgos
• Best Santorini Flying Dress Photoshoots
• Best Wineries in Santorini
• Best Santorini Boat Tours
• Best Sunset Cruises in Santorini
• Best Hikes in Santorini
• Akrotiri Prehistoric City: All You Need to Know
• Santorini Wine Museum: An Honest Review
• Santorini Tomato Museum: All You Need to Know
• Red Beach in Santorini: A Complete Guide (WITH PHOTOS)
• Pyrgos Village in Santorini
• Santorini Ferries Map
• Santorini to Ios Ferries
• Santorini to Naxos Ferries
• Santorini to Milos Ferries
• Santorini Cruise Ship Schedule
• Where to Stay in Mykonos
• Best Hotels in Mykonos
• Best 5 Star Hotels in Mykonos
• Best Hotels in Mykonos Town
• Best Cave Hotels in Mykonos
• Best Beach Hotels in Mykonos
• Best Budget Hotels in Mykonos
• Best Family Hotels in Mykonos
• Best Villas in Mykonos
• Best Beaches in Mykonos
• Best Beach Clubs in Mykonos
• Best Restaurants in Mykonos
• Best Things to Do in Mykonos
• Mykonos Bus Schedule
• Mykonos Ferries Map
• Best Time to Visit Mykonos
• Mykonos to Santorini
• Best Greek Islands Near Mykonos
• Mykonos in April
• Where to Stay in Crete
• Best Place To Stay in Crete for Older Couples
• How to Get From Athens to Crete
• How to Get From Crete to Santorini
• Best Family Hotels in Crete
• Best Villas in Crete with Pool
• Best Beach Villas in Crete
• Best time to visit Crete
• Best Chania beaches
• Best Things to Do in Crete
• Best Family Villas in Crete
• Best Beaches in Crete
• Crete in April
• Crete in May
• Where to Stay in Athens
• Best Hotels in Athens
• Best Family Hotels in Athens
• Best Hotels in Plaka
• Best Things to Do in Athens
• Acropolis Tickets
• Best Beaches in Athens
• Athens to Santorini
• Best Greek Islands Near Athens
• Acropolis Museum: All you need to know (with PICS)
• National Historical Museum in Athens: An Honest Review
• National Archaeological Museum in Athens: Monumental
• Best Greek Island Tours From Athens
• Acropolis vs Parthenon
• How To Get From Athens to Naxos
• How To Get From Athens to Paros
• How To Get From Athens to Amorgos
• How To Get From Athens to Milos
• How To Get From Athens to Tinos
• How To Get From Athens to Ios
• How Τo Get From Athens to Syros
• How To Get From Athens to Corfu
• How To Get From Athens to Kefalonia
• How To Get From Athens to Zakynthos (Zante)
• How To Get From Athens to Lefkada
• How To Get From Athens to Delphi
• How To Get From Athens to Meteora
• Where To Stay in Paros
• Best Hotels in Paros
• Best Family Hotels in Paros
• Best Hotels in Naoussa
• Best Hotels in Parikia
• Best Beach Hotels in Paros
• Best Luxury Villas in Paros
• Best Things to Do in Paros
• Best Beaches in Paros
• Best Paros Beach Clubs
• Best Wineries in Paros
• Where To Stay in Amorgos
• Best Hotels in Amorgos
• Amorgos Bus Schedule
• Best Beaches in Amorgos
• Where To Stay in Naxos
• Best Hotels in Naxos
• Best Family Hotels in Naxos
• Best Beaches in Naxos
• Athens to Naxos Ferries

OTHER GREEK ISLANDS & PLACES

Cyclades islands.

• Best Hotels in Milos
• Best Beaches in Milos
• Best Hotels in Tinos
• Best Hotels in Ios
• Best Hotels in Syros
• Best Hotels in Sifnos
• Best Hotels in Serifos
• Best Hotels in Andros
• Best Hotels in Antiparos
• Best Hotels in Astypalaia
• Best Hotels in Folegandros
• Best Hotels in Kythnos
• Best Hotels in Koufonisia
• Best Hotels in Kimolos
• Best Hotels in Sikinos

SPORADES ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Skiathos
• Best Hotels in Alonissos
• Best Hotels in Skyros
• Best Hotels in Skopelos

IONIAN ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Corfu
• Best Hotels in Zakynthos
• Best Hotels in Kefalonia
• Best Hotels in Kythira
• Best Hotels in Lefkada
• Best Hotels in Paxos

DODECANESE ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Rhodes
• Best Beaches in Rhodes
• Best Hotels in Kos
• Best Hotels in Symi
• Best Hotels in Kalymnos
• Best Hotels in Patmos

SARONIC GULF ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Hydra
• Best Hotels in Spetses
• Best Hotels in Aegina

OTHER GREEK ISLANDS

• Best Hotels in Thassos
• Best Hotels in Ikaria
• Best Hotels in Lesvos
• Best Hotels in Chios
• Best Hotels in Samos

MAINLAND GREECE

• Best Hotels in Delphi
• Best Hotels in Meteora
• Best Hotels in Thessaloniki
• Best Hotels in Kavala
• Best Hotels in Parga

I was born and raised in Greece, and I am actually Greek. I have visited pretty much every square meter of my beautiful country and I want to share my experiences and give my tips to anyone wishing to visit this beautiful piece of land.

This is my travel blog, which is read by more than 1 million people every year (I never expected that!), and I really hope it will help you out with your research on my beautiful country.

Get my secrets for Greece and Santorini in your email!

I have visited Santorini hundreds of times and I have actually lived on the island a few years ago for some time. It is my favourite greek island , but I want to be honest with you: it can also be a tourist trap and feel like a rip-off nowadays as prices have increased significantly.

However, I am going to try and give you all the secrets of Santorini in my dedicated Santorini blog but also provide you with a ton of travel tips for all greek destinations in my Athens Travel Blog , my Crete Travel Blog and my Mykonos Travel Blog .

Santorini’s tiny airport has recently had some upgrades, but it’s still a small airport on a small island, so don’t expect any exceptional services and facilities .

Yes, Santorini has big chain grocery stores and supermarkets that actually have local produce as well, so you can always find cheap food to cook by yourself if you don’t want to spend a fortune in premium restaurants.

This is the fantastic Franco’s Cafe in Pyrgos with some of the most magnificent views on the island of Santorini. Pyrgos is one of my favourite villages of Santorini, and if you are looking for very cute and picturesque accommodation off the beaten path, then this is where you should stay.

This is Vlychada Beach in Santorini, with its dramatic white geological rock formations at the back. There is no shortage of great beaches in Santorini , and if you are visiting between May and October, you will be able to swim in the seawater as the ambient temperature is usually above 30 degrees.

Ammoudi bay is a small bay below the famous Oia town, and if you decide to eat there you will literally be eating on the water! All 3 restaurants on the bay offer excellent quality seafood (mainly) and you won’t be disappointed. Make sure you reserve a table though as these restaurants get super busy in the high season!

Kamari is a beautiful long beach with black sand and pebbles (that can become very hot in the summer!), which is ideal for families and kids. There are lots of amenities behind the beach, many restaurants and beach bars to get a drink or a snack. Hotels in Kamari are usually cheaper than in Oia, Fira, or Imerovigli as you are not getting famous volcano views.

This is Perissa beach , the famous black beach in Santorini with lots of beach clubs , cafes and restaurants. Perivolos and Perissa are on the same long beach. The beach bar in this photo is my favourite one in Perissa called Tranquilo which is a lovely bar-restaurant with lots of healthy and vegan options with a mexican vibe.

Finally, I highly recommend you subscribe to my free newsletter, where I regularly send travel tips for Greece and the Greek islands to more than 15.000 people from all over the world. Alternatively, you can follow me on Twitter and I will try my best to respond to you personally!

Happy reading!

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TOP RATED HOTELS IN:

Santorini:  Canaves Oia Suites Mykonos:  Cavo Tagoo Mykonos Athens:  Coco-Mat Athens Crete:  Domes Noruz Chania Hotel  Corfu:  Corfu Imperial Resort Rhodes:  Casa Cook Rhodes

Delphi: Amalia Hotel

Meteora: Doupiani House

TOP RATED VILLAS IN:

Santorini:  Villa Aura

Mykonos:  Villa Evi

Athens:  Acropolis Villa

Crete:  Cavo Dago Villa

BEST THINGS TO DO IN GREECE:

🌄 Santorini Sunset Cruise

🥾 Samaria Gorge Full Day Hike

🏛️ Acropolis Guided Tour

🪨 Meteora Day Trip from Athens

🏛️ Delphi Day Trip from Athens

ALL AVAILABLE FERRIES TO GREEK ISLANDS:

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My name is Pavlos and I come from the beautiful country called Greece. You can follow me on Twitter here and I will try to do my best to respond to you personally. This is my blog to help you plan your next holidays to Greece and the greek islands, whether it is Santorini, Mykonos, Crete or even Athens. I was actually born in Athens, and I have been to almost all of the greek islands and pretty much most of mainland Greece. I know the ins and outs of my country and hopefully, my travel blog will help you make the most of your holidays.

Booking.com  i s the website with the most available rooms and Private Villas in Athens, Santorini , Mykonos & Crete  (more than Airbnb!)

Ferryhopper    is the best website to book your ferry tickets or check the timetables for Santorini, Mykonos , Crete & all greek islands

Get Your Guide  has the best and largest variety of Tours in Athens and the greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete etc)

Rentalcars is the easiest way to rent a car or a quad for Greece with thousands of available options

Booking.com Flights  has all the available flights to and from the greek islands

Santorini Secrets

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A Greece itinerary for the ultimate summer holiday

The myths are true - Greece vacations are just magical! The blue Aegean Sea, whitewashed houses, delicious food and wine, and the smell of night-blooming Jasmine await.

I have been to Greece many times and absolutely love the country. After quite a few road trips I am sharing my favorite Greece itinerary with you. In addition, a 10-day Greece itinerary to see some of the best Greek islands.

In this article

How to get to Greece?

What is the best mode of transport for your greece itinerary, best time for your greece itinerary, average budget for a greece itinerary, greece itinerary 7 days - from central to east macedonia, greece itinerary 10 days - greek highlights tour.

At the moment the only direct flights from the US fly to Greece’s capital Athens. You will pay an average of $1090 for a roundtrip from NYC to Athens and $1192 for LAX to Athens (Data sourced through the KAYAK comparator search tool).

From Athens, you can either take a domestic flight or in some cases a car ferry to many other Greek destinations and islands.

If you are already in Europe, chances are you can get direct flights to Thessaloniki or Crete as well. However, the flight schedule will depend on the season and direct flights are usually only available in summer.

Regardless of where you are coming from, all U.S. citizens need to familiarize themselves with the new ETIAS requirements for travel to Europe.

Greece is best explored with your own rental car. Except for the big cities and some intercity bus connections, there is very little public transport in many places.

When heading to the Greek islands you can also use an extensive ferry network. Many of the ferries also allow cars so you won’t even have to get a new rental car. Some ferries run very frequently on any given day during the summer months, others only have once-a-day departures. Check when putting together your Greece trip itinerary so you can plan accordingly.

The good news when driving in Greece: Since 2021 a new legislation has allowed US drivers to use their domestic driver’s license in Greece if staying less than six months. Remember that Greece uses the metric system and familiarize yourself with traffic laws when driving in Europe.

Our data shows that summer months are the absolute best in Greece and from June to July temperatures soar up to 82 degrees (data sourced on weatherbase.com ). However, keep in mind that the increased popularity also means more tourists and steeper prices. Especially when the other European countries start their summer holidays things can get crowded.

A personal tip so you don’t have to repeat my mistakes: When going to Greece during the summer make sure to book a rental car for your road trip with AC!

Shoulder season is in late April and May as well as in autumn from September to early October. Afterward, Greece gets less busy and prices drop as well as temperatures. While great if you are on a budget, touristic infrastructure also becomes limited in places. This means fewer or no ferry connections, fewer open hotels, and reduced hours for sights and restaurants.

Are you ready to book your flights and start your Greece vacation? Before you click ‘book flight’ have a look at the prices I have put together for you. This will give you an idea of how much you need to budget for your Greece itinerary.

• Average price for a double room in Athens: $147 per night
• Average price of a bed in a hostel in Athens: $44 per night
• Average price of a rental car in Athens: $52 per day
• Price for a gallon of gas in Athens: $7.56*

*As of March 2024, source: numbeo.com

These are average prices based on data collected and can vary between different locations in Greece. For a 10 days in Greece itinerary covering up to 500 miles (ca. 17 gallons) with a rental car the total budget will be approximately $1060. These are the cost per person based on two people sharing a double hotel room and doesn’t include your international flights.

You will also need to add costs for domestic ferries or flights for some legs of these itineraries. Prices will vary by season, route, and how far in advance you book.

Your Greece itinerary for 7 days officially starts in Thessaloniki. Alas, if you are coming from the US you will need to fly into Athens first and then take a domestic flight. If you are already in Europe you can usually find direct flights to Thessaloniki.

Day 1 & 2: Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is Athen’s much cooler little sister. While there is plenty of history to explore thanks to a 315 BC founding date, there is also a thriving young art scene. Plenty of students and some of the most innovative restaurants add to the atmosphere.

There are also some amazing beaches not far. If you want a proper beach holiday head to Halkidiki, the oceanside weekend destination for the city folk.

Hotel in Thessaloniki: The Modernist is a cool, little city hotel with the best breakfast

Beach promenade

Most visitors will start their Thessaloniki trip on the beach promenade. You will see locals go for a run, some even fish, and quite a few tourists as the promenade is home to two of Thessaloniki's most famous sights. First up is the historic White Tower, a building with a gruesome but interesting past. Next are the Umbrellas by Zongolopoulos, an incredibly cool artwork right by the water.

Museum of Photography & Port

Plenty of gritty interesting industrial space awaits at the Port of Thessaloniki. Just follow the promenade and you can’t miss it. It is also home to the Museum of Photography which hosts modern exhibitions.

Don’t forget your camera when you stroll around afterward, as the port is home to fascinating motifs for your own pictures. Later, the Kitchen Bar is a good place to chill, have a coffee or a sneaky glass of Greek wine.

Day 3 & 4: Kavala

Distance from Thessaloniki: 95 mi - less than 2 hours

Once you step into Kavala you feel like you are going back in time. The city’s past is turbulent thanks to Byzantines, Ottomans, and pirates. It is also home of Mohammed Ali who later became what is considered the founder of modern-day Egypt.

Kavala is also known as the center of tobacco production in Greece and is an all-around historic gem.

Hotel in Kavala: The Anthemion House, located in the old city close to all the sights

Leave your rental car at Mohamed Ali Square because Panagia, the old city of Kavala, is best explored by foot. Start by visiting the house, now a museum of Mohammed Ali as well as his beautiful Imaret. The old Islamic school is now a very stunning hotel.

After that you can make your way up cobblestoned roads to the castle. From the top of its tower, you have a panoramic view of Kavala.

Mud Bath of Krinides

For a special kind of wellness head to Krinides. Mud bathing is great for the skin and joints and has been done for ages in the area. First you will see a doctor who will advise on treatments before you enter a huge pond of mud. You basically float on the mud, a weird and wonderful feeling. If you want you can also book massages on the property.

Expert tip: Make sure to pack an old bathing suit or swim trunks as the mud is very hard to get out of fabrics.

Day 5 & 6: Thassos

Distance from Kavala: 30 mi - 2 hours including car ferry

Thassos is also known as the Emerald Island and an absolute stunner. And that says something considering how many beautiful islands Greece has to offer. Thassos is also known for its bright white marble which is world-famous and was even used to retile Mecca. There are quarries all around as well as dark green forests, beautiful beaches, and of course some crystal clear water.

Hotel in Thassos: Angelica Hotel, a seaside retreat right by the Harbor

Marble Beach

Marble Beach, also called Paralia Saliara, is made entirely of marble sand and rocks. The sand is almost too bright here and feels like powdered sugar. A good pair of sunglasses is a must!

Getting there is no easy task as you are driving on steep white sandy roads and your rental car will need a wash afterward. But it is worth it because the bay has a fun beach club and is just oh-so-beautiful.

Island boat trip

A boat trip around the island is a very special experience in Thassos as much of the island’s charm can only be discovered from the water. For example, the ancient ruins of Aliki that are also considered the first marble quarry of Thassos.

Then there is an island inhabited only by goats, an old iron ore factory, and Giola. This is a natural rock pool in the south you can jump into if you dare.

Day 7: Thessaloniki

Distance from Thassos: 140 mi - 4 hours including car ferry

To get back to Thessaloniki you first take the car ferry from Thassos back to Kavala. Make sure to check the departure times before though the ferry does go quite frequently during the summer season. From the port, you will head to the airport in Thessaloniki where you can drop off your car.

Just like at the beginning of your Greece travel itinerary, you will need to catch a domestic flight from Thessaloniki to Athens now. If you can’t make all your connections in one day, it might be better to book your international flight for the next day. There is a lovely Sofitel hotel directly in Athens airport where you can spend the night.

This trip takes you to some of the best-known places in Greece. While you can road trip the entire itinerary you will need to budget extra time for some lengthy car ferry rides. An alternative is to book domestic flights from one destination to the next and get a new rental car in each place.

If you have enough time you can also expand this to a Greece itinerary for 14 days. In this case, I recommend you add an extra day for a day trip from Athens and three more days in Crete. This being the largest Greek island there is so much to do and see, I promise you won’t get bored.

Day 1 & 2: Athens

Your Greek vacation starts in Athens, the country’s historic but cool capital. There are archeological sites everywhere making it one of the most important European cities for those interested in ancient history.

However, Athens is anything but dusty and there are rather hip areas like Psyrri and Exarchia as well as an innovative food scene.

Hotel in Athens: Acro Urban Suites , a simple hotel in the middle of the Plaka

The Acropolis is the most famous sight in Athens and landmark of the city. The ancient citadel towers over the streets of Athens. It is an absolute must-see even if you are not particularly into history.

It comprises different buildings with the Parthenon being the most significant one. You can go on your own or do a tour - this might be a better option to gain more insight into the history and meaning of the Acropolis.

Expert tip: Go as early as possible especially if you are traveling during the summer months. It is always crowded here but at least in the morning, you can avoid the worst heat.

Plaka is the old town of Athens and located at the foot of the Acropolis. Its cobblestone streets are steep but incredibly picturesque. There are also cute cafes and restaurants everywhere and it is the perfect place for a glass of wine and to soak up the atmosphere of Athens.

Day 3-6: Crete

Distance from Athens: 250 mi - approximately 11 hours with the car ferry

Crete is Greece’s largest island and yet somehow feels a world away. Cretans are proud of their heritage and proud to be a bit different. Personally, it is my favorite Greek island as there is just something very special about it. A long coastline with stunning beaches, mountain paths, and the most incredible food said to be one of the healthiest cuisines in the world.

Hotel in Chania: Fagotto Art Residences , a cute boutique hotel in a historic building by the Venetian Harbor

Chania’s city center is historic and cute with buildings and restaurants dotted around the Venetian Harbor. This is a great place for a stroll during sunset. There are plenty of incredible restaurants that show off the best of Cretan cuisine.

In the morning you should head to one of the city beaches. While these are not the best beaches you will find in Crete, they are convenient and offer a glimpse into local life. Usually, you will see many senior citizens gather in the calm waters early in the day to have a chat with their friends.

Botanical Park & Gardens of Grete

The Botanical Park & Gardens are a truly special place especially for plant lovers. Surrounded by mountains and olive groves you can find three different climate zones and their flora here. This includes alpine, tropical, and Mediterranean plants. Walking through the garden is like walking through an enchanted paradise.

They also have an incredible and super local restaurant that only uses produce from Crete - you won’t even get a Coke. Instead opt for Romeiko, a wine made from an indigenous Cretan grapes.

Balos Beach

It may look like a Caribbean lagoon but Balos Beach is still firmly set in Crete. It is one of the best beaches in Greece and for good reason. The water is shallow, warm, and sparkly turquoise and the sand is white.

To get there you can book an organized boat trip or go on an adventure. Reaching Balos from land is not easy as it requires a dusty car ride and a hike. Make sure to check with your rental car company that your car is adequately insured.

Day 7-9: Santorini

Distance from Crete: 90 mi - 2 hours with the car ferry

Santorini, also called Thera, is an island known for its wine, over-the-top romantic sunsets, and a lot of glitz and glamor. It is also a mostly submerged caldera with its volcano in the middle, one of the few active ones in Europe. You will probably start your trip in the capital Fira before making your way to Oia. This village is home to houses carved into lava rock and probably the best-known postcard picture of Santorini.

Wine tasting

While you may think that every Greek island is a wine island (and you wouldn’t be that wrong) Santorini takes the cake. Excavations show that wine-making was already a thing here in prehistoric times.

The lava stone, hot temperatures, and strong winds make for a very special terroir. You will find vineyards and wineries all over the island where you can go for a tasting and to learn more about the Santorini grapes.

Volcano visit

You can visit Santorini’s volcano which is located on the islet Nea Kameni. You will need to take a boat to get there before you go on land to explore the bizarre volcanic landscape.

From the water, you also have a great view of the caldera that is Santorini with its traditional white houses on top. Should you get cold you may want to take a dip in the volcanic hot springs on the islet Palea Kameni.

Day 10: Athens

Distance from Santorini: 190 mi - 5 hours by car ferry & 1 hour to the airport

From Santorini it is quite a distance to get back to Athens by ferry. Then it is another one-hour drive from the port to the airport. Make sure to add a buffer to your travel time so you won’t have to worry about catching your flight. Alternatively, you can drop off your rental car in Santorini and take a quick domestic flight to Athens.

If you want to explore more check out our Greece travel guide and have a look at these six amazing Greek islands to prolong your vacation.

The hotel recommendations included in this article are based on customer ratings and the author's personal choices, so please feel free to use our hotel search tool to find the accommodation best suited to your needs.

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Greece Travel Secrets is a website committed to helping you get the most out of your visit to Greece and the Greek islands

Yassas and hello!

We are Sandy and John Papas, from Brisbane, Australia.

Thanks to Johns fabulous Greek heritage we visit Greece each year, sometimes twice,  and explore as much of the country as we can, as well as returning to old favourites. We love to cook (and eat) Greek food and are huge advocates of the wine, the way of life and the ‘Filotimo’, ( love of honour and other virtues).

Like you we are visitors, and have become experts at wrangling suitcases, ferry hopping and airport intricacies. We think we’ve learnt a trick or two and hope to pass on those tips to make your visit the best it can be.

We are parents to 3 great young adults who have been to Greece with us many times, and two furry daughters too, Penelope and Pandora.

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13 things to know before you go to Greece and the Greek Islands

Mar 6, 2024 • 8 min read

These top planning tips can help you prep for a trip to Greece, from health and safety to local etiquette © EMS-FORSTER-PRODUCTIONS / Getty Images

Get out your bucket list; it’s time to cross off a major line item: Greece . 

The fabled land remains tops for culture , food, outdoor travel, art and, of course, beaches and islands . As part of the border-free Schengen Area, it’s also incredibly easy to visit for many travelers worldwide. From advance booking to local etiquette – and health and safety issues when you're there – here's everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Greece.

1. Choose your season wisely

Your experience in Greece will be wildly different depending on when you visit . Summer is tops for action, family fun, and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea, but prices are at their highest and pre-booking is necessary for everything since it’s all so popular.

The shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) are a delight – prices are lower, and rooms and resources are more readily available. Winter offers a moody and budget-friendly retreat, great for walking, hiking and sedate travels where you will often be the only visitor around. Bear in mind that some businesses will shut down completely during the low season.

2. Prioritize your wishlist and make a plan

Do you want a grand tour, taking in the not-to-be-missed highlights all over Greece, or would you prefer to focus your time on exploring your favorite islands  or regions, like the Peloponnese ?

The best way to choose from the dizzying array of options on offer is to focus on what is important to you – relaxing on beautiful beaches, learning more about Greece's fascinating history and culture , museums and archaeology, off-the-beaten-track wildlife, or partying until dawn – and plan accordingly.

3. Find the perfect island or region for you

Greece merits multiple trips as every island offers something different , and each of its regions is equally dazzling – you're never going to see everything on your first visit, and you'll ruin your trip if you pressure yourself to do just that. Also, don’t be fooled that the biggies are the only islands worthy of your attention. Though Mykonos , Santorini and the major names have plenty to offer, lesser-known islands (there are hundreds!) like Amorgos or Kythira are also a delight. They've also got the added bonus of smaller crowds and lower prices if that's a key consideration for you.

4. Athens isn't the only gateway to Greece

In many cases, you will find it useful to transit in or out of Greece via Athens , as its airport has connections with numerous international destinations, and the city itself is a gem . However, there are other international airports around the Greek mainland (such as in Thessaloniki ) and on some major islands (such as Mykonos , Santorini  and  Corfu ).

If you need any internal flights to get to your destination of choice, it's worth checking the price of these individually. Due to government subsidies, it can work out significantly cheaper to book each part of your Greek itinerary separately from your international flights.

5. Book everything in advance during peak season

In peak season , prices are high, and demand for car hire, accommodations and ferry tickets is even higher – this is not the time for ad hoc bookings on the fly. Greece is an incredibly popular summer destination, and the best options get snapped up well in advance.

6. Roads in Greece are for confident drivers

No one who has traveled on Greece’s roads will be surprised to hear that the country’s road fatality rate is one of the highest in Europe. Overtaking is listed as the greatest cause of accidents. Heart-stopping moments aside, your own car is a great way to explore off the beaten track if you are confident in your driving and keep a few key points in mind.

• The road network has improved enormously in recent years; many roads marked as dirt tracks on older maps have now been sealed, and a lot of the islands have very little traffic.
• There are regular (if costly) car-ferry services to almost all islands.
• Greece is not the best place to initiate yourself into motorcycling. If you're not confident on a motorbike, it may be best to park this option until you have more experience.
• All the big multinational car-rental companies are represented in Athens, and most have branches in major towns and popular tourist destinations. The majority of islands have at least one outlet.

7. Greece is not very wheelchair-friendly beyond Athens

Access for travelers with disabilities has improved somewhat in recent years, but the majority of accessible sights, hotels and restaurants tend to be located in Athens. While improvements are on the horizon for beach access,  much of the rest of Greece remains inaccessible to wheelchairs, and the abundance of stones, marble, slippery cobbles and stepped alleys create frustrating barriers for those with mobility issues. People who have visual or hearing impairments are also rarely catered for.

Careful planning before you go can make a world of difference. There are specific resources online that provide links to local articles, resorts and tour groups catering to tourists with physical disabilities.

8. Pack the right kinds of clothing

Athenians are well-dressed, and the younger crowd is trendy, so keep your smart clothes for the urban catwalk of clubs and bars. Nevertheless, in Athens and other metropolises such as Rhodes , Thessaloniki and Iraklio , everyday attire such as shorts or jeans and casual tops are just fine.

Bars or fashionable restaurants require more effort – the scene is stylish rather than dressy. Think tops and trousers rather than T-shirts and cut-offs. In out-of-the-way places, you can wear casual clothing, and in summer, the heat will make you want to wear the least amount of fabric you can get away with – bring quick-drying tank tops and cool dresses.

Sturdy walking shoes are a must for the cobbled roads, and proper hiking boots are key if you're exploring the countryside on foot . It's respectful to cover up before entering churches.

9. Learn some basic Greek phrases

Greek is a tough language to learn thoroughly, but mastering a few basic greetings and niceties will make a world of difference in how Greek speakers receive you. In touristed areas, many people speak English, so rest assured that you can get by as long as you know some key phrases.

10. Carry cash and don't rely on cards or ATMs

As part of the EU, Greece uses the euro. In restaurants, a service charge is normally included in the bill, and while a tip is not expected (as it is in North America), it is always appreciated. Taxi drivers normally expect you to round up the fare, while bellhops who help you carry your luggage to your hotel room or stewards on ferries who take you to your cabin normally expect a small gratuity of between €1 and €3.

ATMs are found in every town large enough to support a bank and in almost all the tourist areas. Be aware that ATMs on the islands can lose their connection for a day or two at a time, making it impossible for anyone (locals included) to withdraw money. It’s useful to keep some backup cash just in case this happens during your visit.

Credit cards are now an accepted part of the commercial scene in Greece, although they’re often not accepted on many of the smaller islands or in small villages. Don't rely on your cards alone, and check in advance when dining or drinking if it's your only option.

11. Make sure you have good travel insurance

Although medical training is of a high standard in Greece, the public health service is underfunded. Hospitals can be overcrowded, and relatives are expected to bring in food for the patient – often a problem for solo travelers. Conditions and treatment are much better in private hospitals, which are expensive. All this means that a comprehensive travel insurance policy is essential.

There is at least one doctor on every island, and larger islands have hospitals. Pharmacies can dispense medicines that are available only on prescription in most European countries. If the situation isn't critical, it's often best to consult a pharmacist first for minor ailments.

12. Stay hydrated and remember how powerful the sun can be

Tap water isn't safe to drink on many islands – if in doubt, ask. Keeping a supply of bottled water to hand is essential for hydration as well as safety; many tourists underestimate how hot it can get in Greece, and heatstroke and serious sunburn are common on beaches with little shade.

Break up your sun-drenched siestas with time in the shade getting hydrated, and pack plenty of high-factor sunscreen. Mosquitos are an irritant rather than a danger – packing insect repellant is recommended.

13. Pickpocketing and other petty crime is common in busy places

The major risks of theft in Greece are pickpockets in the large cities and theft of belongings when lounging on busy, popular beaches (leave passports behind in hotel safes). Never leave your belongings unattended, and don't leave your bags hanging from the back of your seat where you can't keep an eye on them. 

The tourist police work in cooperation with the regular Greek police. Each tourist police office has at least one member of staff who speaks English. If you need to report a theft or loss of passport, go to the tourist police first, and they will act as interpreters between you and the regular police.

Some unscrupulous taxi drivers will try to charge you extortionate rates from the airports to the city centers. Always make sure the meter is running or pre-negotiate and agree on the price before you get in.

This article was first published March 2022 and updated March 2024

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• Destinations

Greece's Largest Island Is Packed With Ancient History, Gorgeous Resorts, and a Stunning Pink-sand Beach

Get ready for plenty of fun in the Grecian sun.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Cities to visit, best things to do, best beaches, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Crete, Greece's largest island, clocks in at more than 3,000 square miles and offers plenty of ancient history, incredible food, and natural beauty to explore. But you don't have to take my word for just how special Crete is. 

"I often describe Crete as a compact, island version of California. We have surfing and backcountry skiing in winter. In summer, we have canyon hiking, mountaineering, and, my personal favorite, hidden beaches only accessible by boat. And the shoulder seasons are — chef's kiss — perfection," Anastasia Sotiropulos, a tour guide based in Chania, Crete, shared. "The real treasure of Crete, though, are the people. The farmers, cheesemakers, fishmongers, artists, restaurateurs, winemakers, musicians, and homemakers create unique experiences for those lucky enough to visit this incredible island." 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Stay at a hotel with stunning Mediterranean views, like Elounda Bay Palace or Domes of Elounda. 
• Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos. 
• Catch some sun on Elafonissi Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful pink-sand beaches. 
• Wander the streets of Chania’s Old Town to admire Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. 
• Visit during the shoulder season to avoid the hottest temperatures and largest crowds.

Ready to start exploring for yourself? Here's everything you need to know to plan a trip to Crete.

Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure

Elounda Bay Palace

This luxury hotel has long been beloved for its mix of elegance and charm. The rooms and suites here open up to sweeping views of the azure Mediterranean waters, and the hotel's private beaches ensure you can always find a chair (and an umbrella). Make an appointment at the Chenot Spa, which offers massages, facials, and body treatments using science-forward ingredients and techniques. 

Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection

Looking to stretch out? Domes of Elounda is the place to be. Known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and the historic island of Spinalonga, the resort is home to just suites and villas, which open to fantastic patios with private plunge pools. Yes, this hotel comes with its own spa, but guests can also indulge in an in-room treatment to truly never lift a finger. 

Courtesy of Blue Palace, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa

Blue Palace

Blue Palace was named a Travel + Leisure reader favorite in the 2023 World's Best Awards , and in 2024, it's getting a whole new look. The renowned hotel is reopening as a modernist boutique hotel with just 47 bungalows and suites, all with brand-new interiors and some with private plunge pools. But even if you don't book a room with a pool, that's okay, as the hotel sits just steps from the beach anyway. 

Casa Delfino Hotel & Spa

Find yourself in a 17th-century Venetian mansion-turned-boutique hotel at Casa Delfino . The hotel, located in the heart of Chania's Old Town, allows travelers to stay amid the action while also offering a retreat-worthy rooftop garden that comes with sweeping views of the sea. It's a perfect place for families thanks to its one and two-bedroom suites. 

A visit to Chania's Old Town is a must, thanks to its charming Venetian, Turkish, and Greek architecture. To make the most of your time in Old Town, book a tour with a guide who can show you all the best sights and all the prime spots to get a great meal. 

Get in a little more Venetian architecture at Rethymno Old Town , one of the best-preserved historical districts in Crete. The city is built around the Venetian fortress, which provides fantastic panoramic views from its hilltop location. Don't skip the artisan shops where you can find the perfect souvenir. 

No visit to Crete is complete without a visit to its capital, Heraklion . Here, visitors can check out numerous historic sites, the Archaeological Museum mentioned below, and all the city's bustling markets, cafes, and bars. And as a bonus, the Palace of Knossos is just a short drive away. 

Elisanth_/Getty Images

Explore the Palace of Knossos.

Dive into more than 4,000 years of Greek history at the Palace of Knossos , Crete's most iconic archaeological site. The ancient complex is absolutely massive, and it comes with a gorgeous view of the sea thanks to its position high on the hill. "Crete's most famous archaeological site is the great Minoan Palace of Knossos, the oldest, largest, and most elaborate of these sites," Peter Sommer of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. "In its wide courts, shaded colonnades, and intricate arrangements of room after room, floor after floor, one can really come to grips with a civilization from far back in the Bronze Age, and grapple with questions that are still hotly debated – what did these palaces look like, what were they for, who lived in them, and how did they function?"

Hike the Samaria Gorge.

Outdoor lovers will adore spending a day hiking through the Samaria Gorge, a lengthy hike through Crete's White Mountains. The hike stretches on for nearly 10 miles through ancient cypress and pine forests and the abandoned village of Samaria before ending at the sea. However, the most famous part of the hike has to be the "Gates," where the gorge is just 13 feet apart but is more than 1,500 feet high. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time if you plan to hike the entire trail. The park's official site estimates that it takes about five hours to complete the journey. 

David C Tomlinson/Getty Images

Visit the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania.

Take a stroll through the Old Venetian Harbor of Chania and take in all the colors of Greece. Travelers can walk past homes and buildings showcasing Crete's unique melding of history, including all its Venetian, Ottoman, and Greek influences. Shop in its boutiques, grab a frappe in a cafe, view the massive fortress, and dine on plenty of fresh ingredients (hello, Greek salads) at its waterfront restaurants. Just make sure to have your camera ready, as its colorful buildings make for the perfect Instagram backdrop. 

Learn something new at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Get an even deeper education on the island's history with a visit to the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , which houses the world's most comprehensive collection of artifacts from the Minoan civilization. Its most famous exhibit is the Phaistos Disc, a clay disc sporting more than 240 symbols that is said to be more than 3,000 years old. As the museum notes, "experts have not yet a definitive conclusion of the contents of the inscription," so maybe you can uncover what it all means during your visit.

Elafonissi Beach

Get ready to step foot on one of the world's most beautiful and romantic beaches, Elafonissi Beach . The stretch of shoreline is well-known for its pink sand — created by millions of crushed seashells —that disappears into shallow, turquoise waters. The beach, which is part of a nature reserve, is an ideal spot for families with small children thanks to the calm waters, but there are also plenty of spots for adults to put down their towels and umbrellas for a quiet day at the beach. 

Balos Lagoon

One more brilliant beach to visit is Balos Lagoon , a beach made up of brilliant white sand that's lapped by unbelievably blue water. "One of the most popular must-see places in the Chania region is the Balos Lagoon with hypnotizing turquoise waters and a panoramic landscape," Alonso Marly, a travel expert at Skylux Travel , said. "I suggest visiting the beach early in the morning to experience the lagoon at its most tranquil and skip the tourist crowds." 

Find a different style of landscape at Vai Beach , famous for the palm forest lining the coast. Once again, it's a spot where travelers can find warm, sandy beaches and beautiful blue waters, just this time with the bonus of tree shade for the perfect beach snooze. 

Related: 15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Greece

The best time to visit Crete is from June to August when the weather on the island is at its prime. As WeatherSpark notes, the warmest weather can be found between early June and late September, when the average daily high temperature hits above 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Things get particularly hot in July, when the average temperature hits 84 degrees. 

"When it comes to the best times to visit Crete, keep in mind that the island is seasonal, and during winter months, most of its attractions are closed," Marly added. "However, throughout the high season, it is full of life day and night." 

But, if you're looking to escape the crowds, try plotting a visit during the island's shoulder seasons, which fall over April to May and September to early October.  

 "If possible, I recommend visiting the island during the shoulder season when it's not too hot and crowded – from April to June or September through October — to make the most of your authentic Greek holiday, full of sunshine and unforgettable experiences," Marly said.  

Crete is accessible via its international airports in Heraklion (Heraklion International Airport, HER) and Chania (Chania International Airport, CHQ). Heraklion is the island's busiest airport, and it is also the second-largest airport in Greece, just behind Athens. Several major airlines fly into the airport, including Emirates, Aegean, RyanAir, EasyJet, and KLM. 

For those looking to avoid the airport, there is a ferry option, but be warned: It's a long ride. Travelers can hop aboard a ferry from Piraeus Port in Athens to Heraklion or Chania, but the ride can take between nine and 10 hours.

Related: Everything You Need to Know to Plan Your Perfect Greek Islands Vacation

The best and easiest way to get around Crete is with your own car. Remember, this is Greece's largest island, so if you want to explore more widely, you will need some wheels. There are a ton of rental car companies on the island, including big names like Avis, Budget, and Hertz, all ready to loan you a ride. 

Public Transit

Crete also has a robust public bus system that can get you to most points of interest. Just note the buses here tend to move more slowly than cars, but it's also a rather affordable option, with rides starting at just a few euros. 

Scooters are also a rather popular mode of transportation here, as they are in almost all of the Greek islands. Visitors do need a valid license to rent scooters and must wear a helmet while riding. 

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE Decor editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Your Guide to the Very Best Beaches in Greece to Visit This Summer

“Mythological” doesn’t even begin to to describe these eye-wateringly blue destinations.

For Misty Belles, an executive at luxury travel consortium Virtuoso , the Greek island with the best beaches is Santorini. “The volcanic rock provides a diversity in color and composition with red, white, and black shores,” she says. And for those seeking more than natural beauty, solitude, and stuffing their faces with taramasalata, some of the Greek islands, Belles reminds us, are well known for their Dionysian nightlife. Mykonos , anyone? But at the end of the iméra, whatever your vibe—or vice—at least one of these 15 Greek beaches will fulfill your needs.

Sarakiniko Beach, Milos

Sarakiniko is a surreal lunar landscape of white volcanic rock contrasting with the deep blue of the Aegean. It’s a solid 10 on the rugged-otherworldly-beauty-o-meter.

Voutoumi Beach, Antipaxos

Tucked away on the tiny island of Antipaxos, Voutoumi does a number on your eyeballs with its crystalline waters and powdery white sand, surrounded by lush green cliffs. It’s almost too perfect.

Voidokilia Beach, Messinia

For the Before Midnight fans out there, this amphitheater-shaped beach is located in the heart of the Peloponnese. In addition to its aesthetic bona fides, the beach is said to be the home of Nestor’s Cave, the place where the deceitful god Hermes kept the cattle he stole from his half-brother Apollo.

Seychelles Beach, Ikaria

It turns out that the Seychelles are closer than Expedia might have you believe. Named after its resemblance to the shores of the East African archipelago, this rugged beach on the island of Ikaria is a good choice for those looking to stray from the beaten path.

Elafonissi Beach, Crete

We’ve seen a lot of white sand so far, but if pink is still your color after the Barbiecore craze beat it to death, then Elafonissi is for you. Located on the southwestern coast of Crete, the beach looks like it’s been super-soaked in Whispering Angel.

Plaka Beach, Naxos

On the western coast of Naxos, Plaka Beach is white sand and azure waters framed by rolling dunes and towering cliffs. It’s also a haven for nudists, so if you’re going for the full bronze statue look, Plaka awaits.

Paliorema Beach, Milos

Paliorema is more than the sum of its red cliffs and clear turquoise waters. In fact, the beach is home to the remnants of an abandoned 19th-century sulfur mine. Between sunbathing sessions, you can explore the ruins of the still-extant facilities.

Possidi Cape, Halkidiki

When the Aegean Sea gives you the finger, you should be happy. Possidi Cape in Halkidiki is a digit-shaped stretch of seemingly untouched coastline, perfect for beachgoers seeking just a little more solitude than usual.

Kolimvithra Beach, Tinos

Kolimvithra blends natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Sun-stroked visitors can take a break to check out ancient ruins and traditional Tinos villages.

Astir Beach, Athens

Away from the urban din of Athens center lies Astir, a ritzy private beach club along the Athenian Riviera. Beyond the beach, the food offerings are righteous, and there are numerous historic sites nearby, such as the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion, just 50 minutes away by car.

Navagio Beach, Zakynthos

Framed by towering limestone cliffs and accessible only by boat, Navagio, on the island of Zakynthos, is a flex. Getting there shows commitment, but once you’ve arrived, the social media content creates itself.

Apantima Beach, Antiparos

Apantima is synonymous with unspoiled beauty and cultural heft. It’s surrounded not just by rugged cliffs, but also by ancient ruins and charming villages steeped in tradition.

Platys Gialos Beach, Mykonos

The party starts and ends here. Platys Gialos on Mykonos epitomizes Greek island luxury. It’s the height of glam, perhaps why celebrities gravitate to it.

Balos Beach, Crete

Venturing to the northwestern coast of Crete gets you to the Balos, a beach endowed with crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes. Nearby, there are historic sites aplenty, including the ancient city of Aptera, which features Minoan and Roman ruins, ancient walls, and a cistern.

Red Beach, Santorini

Better dead than red? Not in Santorini! Come for the dramatic crimson landscape of Red Beach, where its towering lava cliff frames a crescent of dark sand on the Aegean. LEARN MORE

Charles Curkin is ELLE Decor's Articles Editor, covering everything related to luxury watches, design, and travel, and has previously written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Paris Review.

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10 things I wish tourists knew before visiting Greece, from a local

• I'm from Athens, and I've seen plenty of tourists make mistakes while traveling to Greece .
• Pace yourself if you're planning on staying out at the bars and clubs all night.
• It's worth it to do some research on smaller islands and local cuisine before your trip.

Thanks to its ancient ruins, picturesque beaches, and incredible food, Greece is one of the top tourist destinations. In 2023, over 32 million people visited.

I was born in Athens and currently split my years living between the US and Greece , so I've spent plenty of time in the beautiful European country.

Here are 10 things I think tourists should know before visiting.

There’s so much more to see in Greece than the popular islands.

It seems like everyone visits Mykonos, Santorini, and maybe Paros, but Greece has over 220 inhabitable islands. Plus, most of them are more budget-friendly than the popular spots.

I recommend looking into places like Kimolos, Astypalaia, Paxoi (also known as Paxos and Paxi), or Folegandros.

The Greek mainland is also beautiful. There's a lot to see there, from UNESCO sites at Delphi and Meteora and the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese to the stunning mountains and villages of Epirus.

Athens is more than the Acropolis.

Athens has great nightlife , restaurants, museums, and cool neighborhoods like Plaka, Exarcheia, Psyrri, and Pangrati.

Tourists who just swing by to check the Acropolis off their list are missing out. I've always found it to be one of the liveliest cities in the world.

You don’t need to tip 20%.

Greek servers generally rely on hourly wages, so there isn't the same tipping culture as the US .

I normally just round up the bill or leave a couple of Euros on the table as a tip — unless I had exceptional service or dined at a more formal (and tourist-oriented) restaurant.

Pace yourself when drinking alcohol.

A lot of travelers take advantage of Greece's lax attitude toward alcohol restrictions. Coupled with the fact that Greek bars and clubs close pretty late (like 4 a.m. late), some tourists get sloppy.

Locals usually intersperse drinks with food and water so they can last the whole night, and I recommend tourists do the same.

Slow down and take Sundays off.

Greeks have a pretty relaxed relationship with time — people often arrive late and stores may open half an hour after they said they would.

Service in Greece can seem slow to people from more fast-paced places, especially on the quieter islands . A lot of stores and supermarkets are also closed on Sundays, even in Athens.

I know this can be annoying at times, but I recommend just enjoying the slower pace of life.

Don’t try to visit too many islands on one trip.

So many people ask me if they can fit four or five islands into a seven-day trip, and I never recommend it. Take your time and enjoy each destination for at least a couple of days.

Half the joy of the Greek islands is getting to destress. If you're hopping from ferry to ferry and running around to cover the highlights, you'll miss out on the best parts of the country.

Be sensitive about natural disasters.

I never thought I'd have to say this, but I have seen multiple tourists in the last few years posting about how "pretty" the skies or sunsets are thanks to the glow from raging wildfires .

At a time when a lot of Greek people are wondering if their houses are still standing or their loved ones have gotten to safety, it's a pretty insensitive thing to do.

Don't skip out on experiencing a traditional taverna.

Athens and other popular Greek destinations now have a lot of upscale restaurants with cuisines from all over the world. But make sure to eat in a traditional taverna at least once.

A taverna is a casual restaurant with family-style dining. Diners can spend hours in them chatting with friends while sharing food paired with some great wine or ouzo (a Greek aperitif).

Greek food is more than just gyros.

Well-known dishes like gyros and souvlaki are truly delicious, but Greek cuisine is so much more than that.

For example, a lot of Greeks start their day with a tiropita (cheese pie) and freddo coffee. Each region also has local specialties that I recommend inquiring about.

In tavernas, popular menu items include calamari, octopus, all kinds of fish, grilled and fried cheeses (like saganaki and halloumi), and side dishes like fava.

Learn a few local words.

Most younger Greek people understand English, but you may run into problems communicating with older people — especially in more rural areas.

Even if a local person can understand you, I think it's nice to learn a few simple words and phrases like "good morning," "thank you," and "how are you?"

It's nice when tourists make a little bit of an effort.

• Main content

10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These are the best Greece cruises for island hopping with ease.

With its stunning beaches, rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, a trip to Greece is always a great idea. However, since the nation is home to more than 6,000 islands — some of which are only accessible by boat — your best bet is to explore via cruise. Just take it from Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder, who tells T+L that “Greece and the Greek isles are just the perfect destinations to explore by ship” since “a cruise allows you to see more islands and gives you a unique vantage point.” Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighboring countries like Turkey and Italy, for example, which allow travelers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favorite Greece cruises for every type of traveler, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency. 

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specializing in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

Windstar Cruises

According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer “a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience.” Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as “upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top.” It’s also worth noting that “each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel gear, floating carpets, and other ‘toys’ that are deployed (weather and location permitting, of course) at least once on most Greek itineraries.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighboring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call specialty restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools, each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style. 

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos , a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, " Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, "When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation." The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is "a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship." 

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini, followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, " Infinity   travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Silversea offers a variety of Greece cruise itineraries, and it’s one of few truly luxe all-inclusive cruise lines. Per Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon offers all-suite accommodations and a classic small-ship feel — complete with excellent meals, beverages, and shore excursions all included in your cruise fare. Speaking of the latter, he says, “The inclusion of shore excursions also makes it easy to dive deeper into Greek culture and culinary experiences.” 

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes ,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean, and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry , this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travelers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens. The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish. After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships. Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travelers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colorful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favorite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: "Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!" says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbor, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, "there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine."

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. "On board," says Guinnup, "There's a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles itinerary sails round-trip from Rome with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. Keep in mind that because the ship is so large, Santorini and Mykonos are both tender ports. With that in mind, Dillon recommends springing on The Key, an optional add-on that includes priority tender access so that you can spend as much time as possible on land basking in its beauty.

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlor, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travelers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L, “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it [also] has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey, which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean voyage visits Thessaloniki (which offers an eclectic combination of history, nightlife, and gastronomy), Kuşadası (a popular Turkish resort town), and Heraklion (the capital of Crete) before heading to iconic isles like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will remain overnight. Before returning to Athens for disembarkation, you’ll also stop in magnificent Milos.

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Royal Couple Announces Divorce: "Thank You Very Much for Your Respect and Discretion."

Prince Nikolaos and Princess Tatiana of Greece shared news of their separation this week.

"Prince Nikolaos and Princess Tatiana, after fourteen years of living together, have decided to dissolve their marriage," the statement reads. "Both express the difficulty of this decision, the deep appreciation and respect they have for each other, but also the love with which they have walked all these years. The same values ​​of respect and understanding will form the basis of their relationship in the future, a relationship of deep and sincere friendship."

They do not have any children together and plan to "continue to live and be active in Greece, the place they both feel at home."

The statement ended with: "Thank you very much for your respect and discretion."

The news comes just a few weeks after Nikolaos and Tatiana appeared together in the UK for a memorial event honoring Nikolaos's father, King Constantine, the last king of Greece, who passed away at the age of 82 in January 2023 after treatment in an intensive care unit.

Notably, Prince William unexpectedly missed a planned appearance at the service of thanksgiving for his godfather, with the Palace citing a personal matter as the reason. Even though a Palace aide added that Kate “ continues to be doing well ” following her abdominal surgery, William's absence only spurred on rumors regarding Kate's health, speculation which was only put to rest after she announced her cancer diagnosis in a personal video message.

As the digital director for Town & Country, Caroline Hallemann covers culture, entertainment, and a range of other subjects 

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