tour planner greece

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Athens International Airport Guide

Cities to Visit

Neighborhoods to Explore

Day Trips from Athens

48 Hours in Athens

Top Things to Do

Top Temple Sites

Best Beaches

Mount Olympus

Ancient Greek Theaters

Foods to Try

Top Restaurants in Athens

Best Bars in Athens

Your Trip to the Greece: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Greece: The Complete Guide

A visit to Greece can be a dream vacation as long as you know what your dream really is and plan for it. The country's beautiful beaches and world-famous archaeological sites are just two (of many!) reasons to visit Greece . But whatever your reason, use this guide to learn more about the various regions of Greece, how to travel around the country and what to expect of Greece's food, culture, and sights.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit : Spring and early fall are the best times to visit when there are fewer tourists but the sea is still warm and the weather fine for outdoor activities.

Language: Greek  . English is spoken in the cities and areas popular with visitors.

Currency: Euro (€)  .

Getting Around: Train service in Greece is limited. An exception is the InterCity Network run by TrainOSE that connects Athens to Thessaloniki and several other cities. Buses, including both local and intercity services, are run by regional cooperatives known as KTEL. The services are not nationally coordinated, so you need to look up KTEL for the region you plan to visit. This KTEL Macedonia website (covering the area around Thessaloniki) is typical. Athens and Thessaloniki have local and suburban public transportation systems. Athen's Metro (expanded for the Olympics) is particularly good, cheap, and clean. Hundreds of ferries connect the mainland to the islands and mainland coastal ports to each other. Private companies run the ferries, and there is no nationwide timetable. Save time and money by using the services of a Greek travel agent to book ferries and for information about buses and trains. Greek websites on these subjects are not well developed for international travelers, but agents are common in ports and city centers.

Travel Tip: Driving in Greece is not for the faint-hearted. Even though many of the highways have been improved in recent years, mountain roads can be hair raising. That, coupled with Greek driving habits, means that the country has a much higher accident rate than elsewhere in Europe.

Things to Do

Eighty percent of Greece is covered in mountains, divided into many peninsulas, and separated by canals  . There are also about 6,000 islands, 227 of them inhabited, and thousands of miles of coast. Getting from one part of the country to another can be complicated so it's important to know, in advance, what you want to do and where to find it:

• Two major cities, Athens , the center of Classical Greece, and Thessaloniki , the heart of Byzantine Greece, are hubs of culture, museums, fashion, nightlife, shopping, dining, and festivals. Both are good bases for touring.
• Fragrant woodlands, dramatic mountains, olive groves and sacred sites dedicated ancient oracles and gods cover mainland Greece. Byzantine fortresses and remote monasteries perch between deep, folded mountain valleys.
• Wherever you go in Greece you'll find thousands of years of history, from the earliest signs of democracy to the temples and theaters of the ancient world as well as the remnants of the Romans and the Byzantines. The Parthenon, the Acropolis , and the Temple of Apollo at Delphi are among the most popular sites.
• The thousands of Greek islands and beaches are an essential part of Greece and Greek culture and are surprisingly easy to reach by plane or ferry. Islands like Crete , Santorini , and Kefalonia are worth a trip on their own.

What to Eat and Drink

Though the foodie scene in the cities is becoming pan-European and international, the best things to eat in Greece are still fresh and local. Octopus and kalamari (fried rings of squid) are popular taverna fare. Fresh Greek salads with feta or local cheeses, a squeeze of lemon and tangy olive oil, are part of every meal. Look for sweets flavored with mastic, a gum from evergreen trees. You may be welcomed to your hotel with a spoonful of cherry or apricot jam and a glass of water.

Take some time to stop at a kafenio (cafe) for coffee and honey-soaked Greek pastries, like baklava and kataifi , or the custard pie known as galaktoboureko . A popular outdoor coffee drink, apparently invented accidentally in Thessaloniki, is frappé. It's made of instant coffee, ice water, and sugar beaten with an electric whisk to form a foam.

The Greeks these days are producing outstanding red and white wines from vineyards in Crete and Santorini. Ouzo, flavored with aniseed, is similar to French pastis drinks. It is sweet and robust and, when added to water, turns white. It packs a lethal punch. If you have a taste for firewater, try the raw spirit made from the byproducts of winemaking. It's called raki in Crete and Tsipouro or Tsikoudia everywhere else. As far as local beers are concerned, microbreweries have caught on, and there are excellent craft beer makers. Look for Red Donkey, a fruity amber ale from Santorini.

Learn more about what to eat and drink in Greece, including the top 10 dishes to try in Greece and the best restaurants in Athens .

Where to Stay

Accommodations in Greece range from quirky Athens boutiques in bohemian neighborhoods like Psirri to corporate giants, like the Athens Hilton in the city center or the luxury Hotel Grande Bretagne in Syntagma Square. The area immediately west of Syntagma Square and into Monastiraki has a concentration of moderately priced three and four-star hotels.

Learn more about the best hotels in Athens, as well as top neighborhoods to visit in Athens .

Getting There

The main international airport for Greece is Athens International Airport , with connecting flights to Thessaloniki, Kalamata , and several of the islands, including Crete and Santorini. Athens Airport is on a main highway and is about 20 minutes from the city center by car or taxi (taxi fares are set by law). Car rental, pick up and drop off, is easiest to arrange at the airport. The cheapest and fastest way to get to the airport from Athens is by Metro Line 3. The airport Metro station is well marked. There are also bus services from the airport to the ports of Piraeus, Rafina, and Lavrio.

To find out more about getting to Greece, explore the best ways to get to Athens Airport , how to take the ferry from Athens to Santorini and how to avoid taxi scams in Greece .

Culture and Customs

Outside of the big cities and major tourist resorts, Greece is a relatively conservative country. In small towns and rural areas, women should dress modestly, avoiding bare shoulders, exposed bosoms, tight or very short skirts or shorts. Even in the cities, cover up before entering Greek Orthodox churches. And, if you are visiting monasteries like the ones at Meteora, don't wear trousers. If you do, the monks will give you wrap around skirts to put on over pants.

Nude and topless bathing is tolerated in many parts of Greece, and on some of the islands, like Crete and Spetses, a short walk beyond the end of a popular beach will take you to a nude beach area. But check with your hotel or a local taverna first. Nude bathing is still technically illegal. On the small islands and in more rural places, Greek families from the small mountain villages visit the beach on weekends with their families. Nude bathing that may be tolerated during the week is not allowed on weekends and school holidays.

Check out everything you need to know about nude bathing in Greece and discover Crete's best nude beach.

Money-Saving Tips

• Travel in the off-season: The most popular time to visit, with the highest prices from June to September. Visit in May or October, and the weather is reliably warm, but prices are much lower.
• Consider self-catering: That's what Europeans call vacation rentals. Efficiency apartments and small villas are usually cheaper than hotel accommodation, and you can save quite a bit by cooking some of your meals yourself.
• Rent an electric bicycle or moped: They're cheaper than rental cars and popular for getting around on islands and in coastal resorts. Just be careful. They are very noisy, and you may not be aware of traffic coming up behind you.
• Take advantage of what's free: Most museums and historical attractions have free admission on certain days or for certain groups of travelers. Look up the site you're interested in on the Greek Ministry of Culture & Sports website . In the left column of your attraction's listing, click on "Information," and you'll find all the free days.

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "General Info."

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "Geography."

Planning a Honeymoon in Greece: The Complete Guide

48 Hours in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary

Traveling Safely in Greece

Don't Make These 8 Common Tourist Mistakes in Greece

Top 18 Things to Do in Athens, Greece

The Towns of Santorini: The Complete Guide

How to Travel from Venice to Athens by Plane, Ferry, and Cruise

Cheap Flights to Athens

How to Travel from Athens to Santorini by Ferry and Plane

Cyclades Islands Map and Travel Guide

Santorini Map and Travel Guide

A Complete Guide to Visiting Mount Olympus

The Top 20 Things to Do in Greece

The Greek Ferry System

The Top 8 Greek Cities to Visit

How to Avoid Taxi Scams in Greece

7 Days in Greece: Epic 6-7-8 Day Itinerary (First Time Visit)

7 days in greece: the best itinerary.

You’re traveling to Greece and you’re looking for the best 7 days Itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this detailed 6, 7 or 8 days itinerary in Greece . During your trip, you will discover Central Greece must-see attractions.

Quick note: If you prefer to visit Athens and Santorini island during your trip, you should rather read my other itinerary: How to visit Athens and Santorini in 1 week.

In this travel guide, in addition to the best places to visit , you will find a list of the best accommodations depending on your budget . And as always, I will also give you all my best tips to make the most of your stay!

So, what are the best things to do in 7 days in Greece?

Where to stay in Athens

Where to stay in nafplio, where to stay in mystras, where to stay in olympia, where to stay in delphi, 6) return to athens (1 day), greece tours, renting a boat in greece, cyclades (greek islands), 1) athens (2 days).

To visit Greece in 7 days , you will directly land in Athens, the Capital.

The international airport is about a 50-minute drive from the city centre. For the first 2 days of this 7 days trip to Greece, you don’t have to rent a car, as you can easily visit Athens on foot.

However, you will need a car for the rest of your itinerary. You can rent your car at the airport on your first day, so you won’t have to come back later to get it. But if you prefer to save 2 days of rental, just pick up your car in the morning of the 3rd day.

In any case, when you rent a car in Athens , you should use the website Rentalcars.com . I’m using it everytime I need to book a car for 3 reasons:

• On Rentalcars.com, you can compare prices between all the rental companies located at Athens’ Airport. You can also see the customers reviews.
• You can choose the “Full Protection insurance” when booking. It allows you to get complete excess refund in case of car accident or theft.
• You will get free cancellation or modification.
• They have the “best price warranty”: if you find the same car cheaper somewhere else, they will refund you the difference!

Click on the button below to compare car rental prices:

So, if you’ve already rent your car, it will be easy to go to your hotel.

If not, you will have 4 choices to go to the city centre:

• By taxi for 40€
• By metro , using the line 3 (the blue one). The best option to avoid traffic jams!
• By bus , with the X95 line. It goes straight to Syntagma Square, Athens’ central square. It’s the cheapest option, but not the fastest.
• By using an airport shuttle service , if your hotel have one. Don’t forget to ask them if this service is available.

Now that you’re in Athens’ city centre, it’s time to discover Greece’s capital city.

When visiting Athens during a 7 or 8 days itinerary in Greece, you have to start with its most famous tourist attraction: The Acropolis.

Built on the top of a hill and overlooking the city, you can see the Acropolis from almost everywhere in Athens. Visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site is totally worth it!

The best preserved and restored monument is the Parthenon. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, it was one of the first building to be entirely built with white marble.

On the site, you will also admire 2 other temples, also dedicated to Athena, as well as a theatre and an amphitheatre.

And, if you want to learn more about Greece’s rich History, you have to visit The Acropolis Museum. There, you will discover the numerous remains found on the site . Don’t forget to go to the top floor terrace, to admire the magnificent view of the Parthenon.

To avoid waiting in line, you can directly get a skip-the-line ticket for the Acropolis Museum here:

You can also visit the Museum first. It can help you understand the historical context before going to the Acropolis!

It will now be time to have a lunch break . Plaka district, located on the foothill of the Acropolis , is full of restaurants and taverns!

For example, you can try the Liondi Traditional Greek Restaurant, just in front of the Acropolis Museum. Here, the typical Greek food tastes amazing. It’s so much better than some tourist traps you can find in the neighborhood.

If you don’t want to stop and eat in a restaurant, you can discover the traditional Greek sandwich: the chicken or pork Gyros. With an ice cream, or a Greek yoghurt for dessert, it was my typical lunch during my trip to Greece!

Then, start your afternoon with a walk in Plaka district, one of the oldest of the city. You will find many souvenir shops, but the place still looks picturesque.

After that, go to the Ancient Agora, for your 3rd visit of the day. The Agora was Athens’ main square in the ancient times. There, you will discover the Temple of Hephaestus , one of the best preserved doric temple in Greece.

You can also visit The Agora Museum , to help you picture what the site looked like in the classical Antiquity. It mainly houses statues discovered on the site.

At the end of your visit, go to Monastiraki district. This neighborhood is well-known for its many and varied shops . It feels a little like the Arabic souks! You will find everything you need: clothes, shoes, jewellery and souvenirs.

It will now be time to go up to Philoppapos Hill and watch the sunset over the Acropolis. On the top, you will enjoy a panoramic view of all Athens up to the Port of Piraeus!

If you’re not too tired and you feel like going out at night , you can end your 1st day in Greece in Gazi district. This is where you will find all the trendy bars and night clubs, and where everyone goes to party!

Spend a night in Athens.

The next morning, continue your 6-7-8 days in Greece with your 2nd day in Athens .

Your 1st stop will be the Panathenaic Stadium, or Kallimarmaro. Built in the 4th century B.C, this stadium was hosting major sporting events, like track and field competitions, chariot races and gladiator fights. The stadium was renovated to host the 1st Modern Olympic Games in the 19th century.

For 5€ , you can access the inside of the stadium, the bleachers and the track. If you don’t want to pay, just go to the public park next to the stadium. There, follow the path to the top of the bleachers , and enjoy the view of the Acropolis.

After that, just walk 5 minutes and have a brief stop at the Arch of Hadrian and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. Then, you can enter Zappeion Park and the National Garden (they are actually the same park) to enjoy some greenery.

Head to Syntagma Square, to attend the Changing of the Presidential Guard. This must-see attraction in Athens takes place every hour. You will be amazed by the traditional costumes of the guards (the Evzones), with skirts, white tights and pompom shoes!

On the square, you will also see the House of Parliament, the center of Greece’s political life.

Then, go to Ermou Street. Located right in front of Syntagma Square, it’s the place to be for shopping lovers! You will find here all the big international brands, like Zara or H&M.

If you go straight to the end of Ermou Street, you will be back in Monastiraki district. As you have already seen it on your 1st day, you should continue with a visit of Athens National Archaeological Museum. There, you will see amazing collections of ancient objects, from the Neolithic era to the end of the Roman period! The golden Mask of Agamemnon is one of the most famous pieces.

To end this great day in Athens, go up to Mount Lycabettus , one of the most famous point of views to watch the sunset over the Acropolis and the city. You can reach the top of the hill by foot, or using the cable-car.

Spend another night in Athens.

If you want more details about the things to see in Athens, you can read my article: Visit Athens: the 20 best things to do and must-see attractions

A 30€ combined ticket allows you to visit the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and other ancient sites: the Hadrien’s Library, the Temple of Zeus, the Roman Agora and the Lykeion.

It’s valid for 5 days.

To get this combined ticket, it’s very simple, you just have to book it by clicking on the button below:

To make them most of your visit to Athens, you should opt for the Athens City Pass. It includes all the must-see attractions , such as:

• The combined Acropolis ticket mentioned above
• The Acropolis Museum entrance ticket
• An audio guide for your visit to Athens
• A 10% discount on all other attractions in Athens

To book it, simply click here:

And if you want to learn everything about the Acropolis History , the best is to opt for a guided visit (it’s also a skip the line ticket).

The best guided tour in English is the one from GetyourGuide Originals. It’s so great that they will give you a full refund if you don’t enjoy your time!

To book it, you just have to click on the button below:

• Bedbox Hostel: A Youth Hostel located 300m from Monastiraki Square, and 700m from the Acropolis. Dormitory room starting from 18€ per night. Strong points: the location, the really kind staff and the cleanliness!
• Evripides Hotel: Located 400m from Ermou Street and 500m from Monastiraki. The rooms are simple but comfortable, starting from 70€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the breathtaking view of the Acropolis from the rooftop, the location (perfect to visit Athens on foot) and the friendly and helpful staff! A great choice in Athens for its exceptional value for money!
• Amalia Hotel: Located on Syntagma Square, just in front of the National Gardens. The double rooms are modern and spacious. Some of them even have a balcony with a nice view of the gardens. The price starts at 155€ per night with breakfast included. Strong points: The comfort, the generous breakfast, and the location in the centre of Athens.
• Wyndham Grand Athens: 5-star Hotel located 1km from Ermou Street and 1.5km from the Acropolis. You’ll love the elegant and design double rooms here, starting from 200€ per night. Breakfast will cost you 16€. Strong points: the outdoor pool on the roof, the view of the Acropolis, the spa center, and the location right next to a metro station!
• Electra Metropolis: This 5-star hotel is located only 200m from Syntagma Square and 600m from the Acropolis. The price for a spacious and comfortable double room starts at 270€ per night, breakfast included. What I loved: the ideal location, the view of The Acropolis from the rooftop, the amazing restaurant, the pool. The best choice for a luxury stay in Athens!

2) Mycenae/ Epidaurus/ Nafplio (1 day)

Now that you have visited some of Athens must-see attractions, you can start your 7-day road trip in central Greece.

Get in your car, or go pick it up at the airport. It’s time to discover Peloponnese region!

Your first stop, the Corinth Canal, is located about 1h drive from Athens . Carved into stone, this impressive canal is very high and narrow. The biggest boats crossing just have a few centimetres of margin!

And for an exceptional experience during your itinerary in Greece, you can also do a 70m bungee jump over the Corinth Canal!

Then, take back your car for a 40-minute drive to Mycenae. Known as one of Greece’s most ancient site, Mycenae was the home of King Agamemnon, a Trojan War hero.

In Mycenae, you can visit the Royal Palace (also known as Agamemnon’s Palace), the Tholos Tombs , and an archaeological museum. As you remember, Agamemnon’s golden mask is not in Mycenae, but in the Archaeological Museum of Athens.

The entrance fee costs 12€ , but I must warn you: the site is mostly in ruins. You will need a lot of imagination to picture what it looked like during the ancient times! If you are not an old stone lover, you can directly go to the next site.

After Mycenae, drive to another major archaeological site of Peloponnese: Epidaurus. It’s located 45 minutes away from Mycenae.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its ancient theatre, an architecture masterpiece. Built in the 4th century B.C, it has an exceptional acoustic. If someone drops a coin in the centre of the scene, another person located on the last seat row will hear it perfectly!

In Epidaurus, you will also find a temple dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medecine. The site was an ancient pilgrimage site , and many sick people came here to ask for a miraculous healing. There is also a small archaeological museum.

Only the theatre is well preserved. The rest of the site is mostly in ruins, and surrounded by scaffolding.

Now, it’s time to drive to your last stop of the day, the lovely city of Nafplio , located a 30-minute drive from Epidaurus.

Nafplio is a small city, located on the sea side. The town is divided in 2 parts: a modern town, and an old town with its picturesque alleys. There, you will enjoy a pleasant walk.

You can also see 3 fortresses:

• The castle of Bourtzi, located at the entrance of the port.
• The ruined castle of Acronaflplia, with its nice view over the city and the Bourtzi. Easily accessible by car, it will take you only 5 minutes to drive there and enjoy the view.
• The Palamidi fortress, overlooking the city. It’s by far the biggest and the most impressive of the 3! But don’t visit it yet, it’s on your next day’s schedule.

To end your day, go to Arvanitia beach, a small and nice pebble beach. The place is ideal to go sunbathing and swimming, and you can also rent deckchairs and beach umbrellas. Get some rest, there is a big day on the road awaiting you the next day.

Spend the night in Nafplio.

• Agamemnon Hotel: Located in Nafplio’s old town, just in front of the Bourtzi Castle. The double rooms, with a balcony and sea view for some of them, are starting from 55€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the location, the view, the kind staff.
• Amymone and Adiandi Hotel: Located 5 minutes away from the beach, in the old town. You will love the elegant double rooms, starting from 75€ including breakfast. What I loved: the delicious breakfast, the location on a pedestrian alley, the rooms’ original and nice design. It offers the best value for money in Nafplio!
• Amalia Nafplio Hotel: Located about 2km away from the city centre. The luxurious and comfortable double rooms are starting from 110€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the free private parking, the quietness, the varied breakfast.
• Nafplia Palace Hotel & Villas: This 5-star hotel is only 5 minutes away from the beach and 15 minutes away from the city centre. The rooms are large and modern, with balconies and the offer a great views of the sea and the castle. Price starts from 260€ per night. If you want an even more luxurious stay, you can sleep in a villa with its private pool, starting from 570€ per night. It’s my favorite hotel in Nafplio, perfect for a luxury stay!

3) Palamidi Fortress/ Monemvasia (1 day)

To continue your one week in Greece itinerary, start your day by visiting the Palamidi fortress, in Nafplio.

Try to get there early, as you will have to drive quite much during the day.

You can directly park your car at the entrance of the fortress . The site is quite big and well built, with many strongholds. The viewpoints on the sea and Nafplio are really amazing. The entrance fee is 8€, and it will take you between 1:30 and 2 hours to visit the fortress.

Get back in your car, it’s time to go to Monemvasia. This village, located 3h drive from Nafplio, is one of the best places to visit in Peloponnese. Don’t worry, it goes quite fast, as the landscape is amazing.

Monemvasia is located on a huge rock, only connected to the mainland by a small road on a dike. You will find parking spots at the end of the road. You should park your car here, then take the 1€ shuttle to the entrance of this pedestrian village. You can also walk, it will take you only 15 minutes.

The village of Monemvasia is completely hidden by the cliff until you cross the fortified gates . Built under a cliff, the city was a natural stronghold during Barbarian invasions, or during the many wars against the Franks or the Turks.

Today, you will walk down the village’s paved alleys , and enjoy a lot of bars, craft shops and local products shops . On the main square, you can admire a church and a cathedral.

From the bottom of Monemvasia, you can take one of the walking trails to go to the fortress located on the top of the cliff. There, you will enjoy a splendid bird’s-eye view over the city roofs and the sea.

After Monemvasia, get back in your car and drive for around 1h30 to go to Mystras. This way, you will be close to the site of your next day’s visit!

Spend a night in Mystras

• Byzantion Hotel : Located just across Mystras’ main square. The simple but comfortable rooms offer a view on the Archaeological site. Price starts from 55€, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the view, the private parking lot.
• Mazaraki Guesthouse: Located close to Mystras’ Archaeological Site and surrounded by nature, this place offers large and warm suites with balcony, starting from 115€ including breakfast. What I loved: the pool, the environment, the decoration, and the breakfast served in your room.
• Arxontiko Taygeti: This Guesthouse is located only 5km away from Mystras’ city centre. The duplex suites, with a kitchen, a living room and a balcony with a beautiful mountain view are starting from 160€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the calm, the kind staff, the environment. You will also find everything you need for breakfast in your fridge!
• Mystras Grand Palace Resort: This 5-star hotel is located only a 5-minute drive from Mystras. This brand new hotel offers rooms with stone walls, exposed beams and terrace, starting from 180€ per night including breakfast. What I loved: the pool, the hot tub, the sauna, the comfortable rooms, the calm. It’s the best choice for a luxury stay in Mystras!

4) Mystras/ Olympia (1 day)

Let’s continue this 7 days itinerary in Greece with one of the places I enjoyed the most when visiting the country: Mystras.

The archaeological site is located only 5 minutes from the city centre. There are 2 distinct entries, with 2 parking lots: one for the upper city, and one for the lower city. You should start with Mystras’ upper town.

This ancient fortified city was once the capital of the Byzantine Empire. Now, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In the upper city, you will discover the fortress. From the highest point of the site, you will enjoy a magnificent panorama on the surrounding plain and the city. Then, go down the stairs to see the Agia Sofia Church, the Palace of the Despots and the small palace.

To continue your visit, take your car back and park near the entrance of the lower city. They will ask for your entrance ticket again to enter the site, so don’t throw it away!

In Mystras’ lower city, you can visit several churches, monasteries and convents, with one still inhabited by nuns. Don’t miss:

• The Pantanassa Monastery
• The Peribleptos Monastery
• The Brontochion Monastery
• The church of Agios Theodoros

In my opinion, Mystras is one of the most beautiful places in Peloponnese. The constructions are perfectly restored, and the site is located in the heart of nature. It’s simply beautiful.

Plan at least 3 hours for your visit, the site is really big!

Now that you have visited Mystras , it’s time to go to Olympia. This other major ancient site of Peloponnese is located 2 hours from Mystras.

If you visited Mystras during 3 hours, and then drove for 2 hours, you should be in Olympia around 3 or 4 p.m. You will have enough time to visit this UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site.

Olympia is the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games. They were hosted here every 4 years between 776 B.C and 393 A.D. Athletes were competing in wrestling, discus throw and chariot races. The winners were considered as heroes!

I must warn you, it will take you some imagination to picture what the site looked like with its gymnasium, temples or sports facilities. Luckily, there are many explanatory signs on the site to help you.

If you visit Olympia at the end of the day, it will be less crowded, and you will take better pictures, as the luminosity is often perfect.

The 12€ entrance ticket includes an entrance to the Archaeological Museum. There, you will see ancient objects and statues found in Olympia. Don’t hesitate to visit the museum before the archaeological site, it will be easier to picture what the place looked like.

If you still have time, your entrance ticket also includes the Olympic History Museum. You can know everything about of the Olympic Games history and organization, with all the different sports and events. All the explanations are available in English.

Spend a night in Olympia

You will need hiking shoes or good sneakers to visit Mystras. The steep trails are slippery and rocky.

If you are looking for a good restaurant in Olympia, just go to Dimitra restaurant . The pasta here was delicious!

• Leonidaion Guesthouse: Located only 10-minute walk from the Archaeological site of Olympia. The large and comfortable double rooms are starting from 55€ per night, including breakfast. What I loved: the free private parking lot, the location close to the site, the quietness. It’s the best value for money in Olympia!
• Amalia Hotel Olympia: Located at the city’s entrance. The large and bright rooms, with balcony or terrace are starting from 80€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the very tasty breakfast, the kind staff, the free fruit basket and water in your room.
• Arty Grand Hotel: Located on a hill overlooking the city, this 5-star hotel offers modern double rooms, with a small living room and a balcony, starting from 95€ per night including breakfast. Strong points: the huge outdoor pool, the indoor pool, the environment. It’s the best hotel for a luxury stay in Olympia!

5) Delphi (1 day)

Let’s continue your 7-8 days trip to Greece. You are about to leave the Peloponnese to visit the last archaeological site of your stay: Delphi.

In my opinion, Delphi is the best ancient site in Greece!

It will take you 3h15 to drive to Delphi from Olympia. During your journey, there will be many nice places where you can stop:

• Kalogria Sandhill a large sand beach, surrounded by dunes and pine trees. You can have a lovely walk here!
• Gianiskari Beach: follow the track to find this very nice sand beach. The place is really quiet, with only a few tourists.
• Nafpaktos: a nice seaside town with 2 large beaches, bars and a small port. This is a perfect place for your lunch break. You can also visit a castle located on the hill. There, you will enjoy a beautiful view over the bay and the Charilaos Trikoupis bridge. (entrance fee is 2€)
• Galaxidi, an other small seaside village with some cafés and restaurants, where you can walk along the harbour and in the pine forest.
• Between Nafpaktos and Galaxidi, the seaside road is really nice, with several beaches to go swimming.

When you arrive in Delphi in the afternoon, start with the visit of the Archaeological site, located just outside the city. You can park your car in the parking lot.

This ancient site, located in the middle of the mountains, is one of the most famous in Greece. There, the Pythia (the oracle of Delphi) transmitted Appolo’s directives from the gods to humans . The city was considered to be the centre of the world by ancient Greeks. During 6 centuries, Greek History was strongly affected by the interpretations of the Pythia’s prophecies.

Erected on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a breathtaking view over the mountains and valley. During your walk, you will admire the Temple of Apollo, the theatre and the stadium.

The 12€ entrance ticket includes the visit of the museum located on the site. There, you can discover the ancient objects and statues found in Delphi.

For your lunch break in Delphi, you should try the Taverna Vakhos . The menu is quite different and more upscale than in the other restaurants, for an identical price. The food was copious and delicious. It’s better to book it in advance.

• Fedriades Delphi Hotel: Located a 10-minute walk from the ancient site of Delphi. The modern double rooms with balcony are starting from 55€, and you have to add 8€ for breakfast. Strong points: the panoramic view, the high quality beds, the kind staff.
• Kastalia Boutique Hotel: Located only 5 minutes from Delphi. You’ll enjoy large and modern double rooms, starting from 62€ including breakfast. What I loved: the terrace, where you can have your breakfast, the warm welcome, the location. It’s the best value for money in Delphi!
• Nidimos Hotel: Located only 1km from the archaeological site. The bright and comfortable double rooms with balcony are starting from 65€ per night, with a 10€ breakfast. Strong points: the various and copious breakfast, the free parking lot, the beautiful view.
• Amalia Hotel Delphi : Located 800 meters from the archaeological site. Modern and bright double room offering a nice view up to the sea starting at 90€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the large swimming pool, the view. The most high-end hotel in Delphi!

This 7-day tour in Greece is already over. Unfortunately, you have to drive back to Athens!

Going to the airport will take you around 2h30.

Depending on your flight’s time of departure, how about a last walk in Athens, to complete your souvenir shopping? You can also go to one of the many beaches located nearby.

If your road trip in Greece lasts only 6 days, you can visit Athens in one day. Just follow the detailed itinerary I have written to visit the city on foot: Getting around Athens on foot in 1 day.

If you spend 8 days in Greece, you can add a day in Athens’ surroundings at the beginning of your holidays, to do a one-day boat trip to the Saronic Islands. During this cruise from Athens, you can swim and visit the islands of Poros, Hydra and Aegina. The lunch is also included.

These tours must be booked early, so just click on the button below for more details:

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Greece by yourself. (Click here to read all my articles about Greece)

However, if you prefer to book a Greece tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Greece tours by clicking the button below:

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Greece, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Greece? 😊

Now you know how to spend 7 days in Greece! If you have any questions about planning your 6, 7 or 8 days itinerary in Greece, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section.

Greece travel guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
• The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greece – The best Itinerary to visit Athens + Santorini!
• Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
• The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
• Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
• Naxos: Top 10 things to do
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Santorini: The definitive guide
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do
• Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

4 days in Edinburgh: the perfect Itinerary (first time visit)

2 days in Edinburgh: Itinerary for your weekend +my best tips

5 days in Edinburgh: the perfect Itinerary (first time visit)

Discussion 11 comments.

This is an excellent 7-day itinerary. There’s so much to see in Greece it can be overwhelming to people who are trying to plan a trip. This itinerary gives a great overview.

I did this itinerary and truly it turned out to be one of the best experiences I have had in Greece. Thank you so much.

I am super glad you enjoyed your 7-8 days itinerary in Greece.

Maybe see you again on the blog for another destination 🙂

Have a great day!

Is there a way to shorten this itinerary by a day? I don’t have 7 days. Thanks

Hello David,

As I recommend in this article, if you only have 6 days in Greece, you can visit Athens in one day. Just follow the detailed itinerary I have written to visit the city on foot: Getting around Athens on foot in 1 day .

Have a nice trip to Greece!

Hi Vincent, my wife and I followed your itinerary during our holiday in Greece and found it to be extremely informative and helpful. We had an extra day, so we added the Mani peninsula with an overnight stay in Areopoli. Great rugged and remote landscapes, winding roads and nice beaches. We could not be happier with your itinerary and our holiday. We highly recommend it to everyone. Thank you so much!

Thanks a lot! I’m glad you had a great stay following my 7 days itinerary in Greece. Adding the mani peninsula was indeed a great choice for your extra day.

See you for another trip!

Hey, I loved your article. Are you able to suggest 7 day itinerary ? I am landing in athens ( 2 days) and santorini (2-3 days) . I wanted to spend the middle two days either naxos and Los. what do you suggest ?

Thanks! I’m glad that my 7 day itineray in Greece is helping you to plan your stay.

From Athens, they are for sure more ferry going to Naxos than Ios. However Ios is less touristic and more off the beaten path destination. You should check the ferries on Ferries in Greece .

Enjoy your trip in Greece!

Thank you so much for this article, we have done 95% of it staying mostly at places recommended. This was our first visit to Greece and we have thoroughly enjoyed it. All the suggestions made it so easy to plan. Your efforts are much appreciated.

Thank you John, that’s very nice! I’m glad you enjoyed your itinerary in Greece.

See you for another destination!

Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Middle East
• North America
• Cheap car rentals: my best advice
• Back to Homepage

Greece Trip Planner Sample Itineraries

• Featured Tours
• Travel Agents

Customers rate Zicasso's travel referral service  5  on a scale of 1 to 5 based on  1540  reviews on Trustpilot

We match you with top tour companies that specialize in the trip you want,  whether it's a customized private tour or a group tour.

Your ideal Mediterranean vacation starts with Zicasso’s Greece trip planner. Get intimately acquainted with the country’s marvelous ancient history, coastlines, and cuisine when you design a tour alongside a local expert. From your imagination to reality, a dream vacation is made possible through a customized itinerary from Zicasso.

Life-Enriching Travel Designed Just for You

Trips curated by the world’s top destination experts

Concierge-level service leading up to and during your trip

Unique, exclusive experiences and insider access

Zicasso in the News

9  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,920

Embrace the history, culture, food, and breathtaking scenery of Greece on this vacation that combines experiences in Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini in nine days. Feel Greek mythology come to life as you explore the Acropolis, spend time on the sweeping golden sands of Mykonos, and discover the Cycladic charms of Santorini. This tailored trip shares the best of Greece, from Athens across the Aegean Sea.

8  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,595

This is the ultimate one-week historical tour on the Greek mainland and will cover all of the legendary ruins and magnificent sites. Piece together the Greek storyline around Athens and Peloponnese for an incredible week spent through the country’s best ruins and relics. Ruined Corinth, mythical Olympia, Apollo’s sanctuary at Delphi and different acropolises. From ancient civilization to medieval enchantment, you can also discover the Meteora monasteries, coastal Nafplio, and enigmatic Plaka.

14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,545

History and culture of Western Civilization will reveal 4,000 years of tradition on your 14-day historical Greece tour. From the famous images of the Parthenon to gilded Byzantine churches, the dramatic walls of Mycenae to the Venetian streets of charming harbors, you will step into history in a time-honored setting uncovering the often-overlooked treasures of Greece along the mainland, islands, and Peloponnese Peninsula.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,895

Set sail for the islands on this perfect Grecian odyssey tailored to take you through the many phases of antiquity. Set within a mix of spectacular ruins, sensational beaches, and filled with the classic must-see wonders of Greece; follow in the footsteps of epic poems and philosophers. Reach into the labyrinth to find the Minotaur in Crete. Stand along the red cliff shores of Santorini. Walk next to the adored pillars of the Parthenon. All of these wonders are possible within the span of your unforgettable odyssey on this amazing Greece trip.

7  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $2,270

When one thinks of beautiful and romantic locations, the stunning Greek islands most likely come to the forefront of your mind. This luxurious, 7-day excursion to Greece’s premier islands is designed especially for couples. A brief stay in Athens begins your trip before you travel in luxury to the gorgeous islands of Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini. Exclusive tours, dinners for two, and spectacular sea views will be found on every island. Add in the delicious food and idyllic beaches, and you have a true paradise on your hands. During this luxurious and memorable adventure for two, experience some of the best that the Greek islands have to offer.

Your custom-tailored 10-day Greece family tour will become a household legend as you experience mythology, discover the inspiring history, and bask on captivating beaches. The wonders of Greece will immerse your family in antiquity and have you wandering through epic natural terrain. From the Golden Age of Athens to the Minoan treasures of Crete, your family vacation will blend education and adventure to give you lasting memories.

Why Travelers Choose Us

Benefits of Using Zicasso

11  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $3,570

The mystery and intrigue of Athens will immerse you in millennia of history and heritage during your 11-day custom-tailored Greece tour. You will explore grand temples with specialized guides, relax on the shores of the exclusive Athenian Riviera, and delight in the luxuries of marvelous coastal resorts. Your Athenian escape will offer you a new and exciting perspective in and around Athens, from unique neighborhoods to memorable coastal sunsets.

More Trip Planners Near Greece

Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service

4.93 stars based on 1787 reviews.

Reviewed By  Charnisha A.

Reviewed By  Robert W.

Reviewed By  Cynthia L.

Reviewed By  Nancy a.

Reviewed By  Todd E.

Reviewed By  Jeff J.

2 Weeks in Greece: 4 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Greece is a country located in Southeast Europe on the Southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula. It shares borders with North Macedonia and Bulgaria to the North, Albania to the Northwest, and Turkey to the East.

The Sea of Crete also borders Greece, and the Mediterranean Sea can be found to the South and the Ionian Sea to the West, while the Aegean Sea lies to the East.

When I first visited Greece, I couldn’t believe my eyes. The preservation of ancient ruins, the culture, the food, and the people – this country is a must-visit . Aside from its ethereal places, it is also well-known for Greek mythology, which is often referenced in both classic literary and pop culture.

The Olympics are inspired by the ancient Olympics held in Greece, and this country is considered the cradle of Western civilisation. With 2 weeks in Greece, you might not be able to cover everything, but it’s a start.

ALSO CHECK-OUT: 2 weeks in South Europe and 2 weeks in Europe

BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR GREECE

Before we dive into the travel plan, let’s briefly discuss things you should know about vacationing in Greece. This includes when to go, estimated cost, transportation, and more, which will help you create a customised 2-week travel itinerary .

When is the best time to travel to Greece

The best time to visit Greece is late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner. Peak season is July-August, offering warm waters and vibrant nightlife but also drawing large crowds and high prices.

The rainy season typically occurs in winter, from November to February , making it less ideal for beach activities. However, it is a great time for a cultural trip and a more laid-back vacation in Greece.

Are 2 weeks enough for Greece

Two weeks is a reasonable time to explore Greece’s highlights, but it won’t allow you to see everything . You could spend a week on the mainland visiting Athens and historical sites like Delphi and Meteora, and another week island-hopping among popular spots like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.

The main idea here is to ask yourself what are your priorities . Is it to enjoy the beaches and islands? Is it to explore the ruins? Write down the top cities you have in mind, then choose 3-4 . From there, you can start an ideal 2-week Greece itinerary.

How to get around

To travel between Greek cities, you can opt for domestic flights, trains, or long-distance buses called “KTEL” . For island-hopping, ferries are the most popular choice, though flights are available for certain routes.

Within cities, public transportation like buses, trams, and the Metro are convenient, especially in Athens. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also widely available, such as Beat, e-Taxi, and FreeNow.

One thing to keep in mind is the travelling between the islands in southern Greece. While there is an extensive network of ferry routes, taking flights usually means you often have to connect back to Athens.

Another option is to rent a car . Many people do this since there are “car ferries”, which allow you to bring your rented car to some islands. Renting a car or scooter can offer flexibility for exploring islands or rural areas.

Language and currency

Th e main language in Greece is Greek . However, English is widely understood in tourist areas , major cities, and among younger Greeks. While you might encounter some language barriers in rural areas, most menus, signs, and tourist spot information are in English.

So yes, tourists can generally get around comfortably using English , but learning a few basic Greek phrases is always appreciated.

The main currency in Greece is the Euro (€ ). While some tourist-heavy areas may accept major foreign currencies like the U.S. Dollar, it’s generally best to use Euros for transactions.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist spots, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments and remote areas. ATMs are readily available. Overall, it’s advisable to carry both cash and a card while travelling for 2 weeks in Greece.

Greece is part of the EU and the government has implemented the Schengen State visa policy. This means that if you have a passport from the most countries in the Americas, the UK, East Europe, Australia, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand, South Korea, Malaysia, and UAE, you can travel and stay in Greece (or the Schengen State), for up to 90 days in a 180 calendar day .

Visitors that hold a passport from an EU member have a freedom of movement in Greece. The rest of the world must apply for a visa in advance to the nearest Greek Embassy or Consulate.

Cost of 2 weeks in Greece vacation

It can be hard to say what it will cost you to plan a trip for 14 days since it all depends on your level of comfort, style, and the season. But to give you some ideas:

• Affordable : Budget travellers can expect to spend around €900-€1,300 . This includes staying in hostels, eating at cheaper tavernas, and using public transport. Activities like sightseeing and beach visits are generally low-cost.
• Mid-Range : For a more comfortable experience, plan on spending €1,800-€3,500 . This includes 3-star hotels, dining at mid-range restaurants, and some guided tours or activities. You might also include some inter-island ferry tickets or domestic flights.
• Luxury : If you’re aiming for a luxury experience, budgets start at €5,000 and can go much higher . This covers 5-star hotels, fine dining, private transfers, and exclusive experiences like yacht rentals or private tours.

Travel arrangement tips

Map of top sites and activities in greece.

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN GREECE ITINERARY

In this article, I created 4 different itineraries based on your travel preferences. If you prefer slow travel, activity, or adrenaline-filled travels, go to locations rich in historical sites and the like.

Additionally, you can swap cities and islands around. Just keep in mind that transportation can be a bit of a hassle if you choose places that are far from one another. In that case, you might spend more time in terminals and airports.

RELATED POST: 2 weeks in Croatia itineraries

Itinerary #1: First-timers/Beach Trail (Athens, Mykonos, Crete, Paros, Santorini, Milos)

The first 2 weeks in Greece itinerary is perfect for first-timers because it has a little bit of everything, from iconic landmarks to vibrant nightlife, and for those who prefer lesser crowds, cities with a laid-back vibe, you name it.

I also added locations here that are included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plus, some of these locations offer tons of day trips to nearby cities or landmarks, so you’ll really get to see a lot of places through this itinerary.

Athens for 3 days

Athens is the capital of Greece. I t has tons of iconic landmarks, historical sites, and monuments . Aside from that, it has huge shopping malls, a lively night scene, and world-class museums.

Personally, for historical enthusiasts, Athens alone could easily eat up your 14 days in Greece.

It is actually a perfect starting point , as most of the locations here are walkable. You can also reach various locations by diverse modes of transport via rail, air, sea, and driving. A transfer from the airport to your hotel might make your arrival more hassle-free.

Athens also offers many day tours here, such as day trips to Olympia, Corinth, Delphi, and the Saronic Islands. Other must-visit locations are the Acropolis Museum, Agora, Parthenon, and various temples.

Mykonos or Crete for 3 days

Mykonos and Crete both have different sceneries and experiences to offer , so in this part of the article, I’ll highlight what each island is famous for so that you can decide where to go from Athens.

Mykonos is a small island that belongs to the Cyclades group, so it can be included in island hopping trips. It is well-known for its nightlife , the main town Chora because of its architecture, and a day trip to the archaeological site of Delos.

Conversely, Crete has tons of traditional villages and picturesque towns , with tiny cafes, restaurants, and marinas, so even if it is way larger than Mykonos, Crete has a more laid-back vibe. Some of the must-visit towns include Agios Nikolaos, Anogia, Choudetsi, Heraklion, and Rethymno.

The travel options from Athens to Mykonos are by ferry and plane . The slowest boat takes 5 hours to reach your destination, while high-speed ferries will take more than 2 hours.

Ferries, especially high-speed ones, are more advisable than plane rides since they are cheaper. Besides, the travel time difference isn’t that far. Flying duration is 30 to 45 minutes.

The travel options from Athens to Crete are also the same, but Crete is further compared to Mykonos, so the travel duration is longer. The ferry ride can travel between 8 to 16 hours, depending on the route. In contrast, the plane ride is just over an hour.

Paros for 3 days

Paros is a Greek island located in the Central Aegean Sea . It is also included in the Cyclades island group. It is known for its festivals, parties, high-quality white marble, and beaches.

It is very strategically located as it’s usually the first ferry port from Athens to the Cyclades islands. A couple of tourist attractions here are Paros Park, the Archeological Museum of Paros, Venetian Castle, Agios Konstantinos Church, Valley of Butterflies, and more.

In either Mykonos or Crete to Paros , you must check the ferry options as there are no direct flights; you need to connect to Athens. The travel time from Crete to Paros via ferry is almost 4 hours, while from Mykonos to Paros, it takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Santorini in 3 days

Santorini is an island in the Southern Aegean Sea, around 200 km from the mainland. It is also the Southernmost member of the Cyclades group of islands.

Santorini is well-known as the site of the largest volcanic eruption recorded in history. This is the island you want to go to if you’ve seen those white stone houses facing the ocean in travel magazines and social media.

Aside from that, it is also renowned worldwide for its architecture, oftentimes replicated and turned into tourist attractions. Other places to visit include Red Beach, Fira, Caldera, Akrotiri Archeological Site, and more.

The distance between Paros and Santorini is 43 nautical miles, which is approximately 89 kilometres. You can reach Santorini from Paros through a ferry ride . The travel duration is anywhere between almost 2 hours to almost 4 hours, depending on the boat speed and boat line that you’ll ride.

You should book an airport transfer to make this travel day much easier.

Milos for 2 days

Milos is a volcanic Greek island in the Aegean Sea , north of the Sea of Crete. 2 archaeological artefacts found here are now in The Louvre and The British Museum. This place is famous for its otherworldly beaches and volcanic landscape.

Some places to visit here include Pollonia, Klima, and other fishing villages, Tsigrado Beach, Kastro, The Ancient Theater, and more. You can do a half-day cruise to Kleftiko as well.

The distance between Santorini and Milos is 95 km, but there are no direct flights, so it would be better to take a ferry instead . The travel duration lasts from anywhere between 2 hours to 5 hours and 40 minutes.

It is a perfect place to end your trip because aside from the archaeological sites brimming with history, it also has tons of scenic views because of the abundance of minerals and colourful rock formations formed after the volcanic eruption thousands of years ago.

Itinerary #2: Historical and Culture (Athens, Mycenae, Delphi, Crete, Meteora, Corfu)

This second itinerary is perfect for history and culture buffs because the locations I included here are filled with historical and archaeological sites left and right, particularly in the Athens/Mainland Greece area.

Aside from that, if you want to take a break from the crowd and unwind, tons of wineries in Athens will loosen you up and lift your mood. It is followed by Crete, which is another laidback destination with a lot of charms.

And then Meteora, which is well-known for its rock formation and offers tons of outdoor activities. Finally, Corfu, where you could lay on the shore to your heart’s content, which is a perfect way to end a trip.

Athens for 6 days

The first stop for your 2 weeks in Greece is Athens. You might be wondering why the advisable duration of stay here is so long. It’s because there are so many historical sites here, and most of them could be accomplished as day trips, so Athens can serve as your base location for a couple of days.

Some of the day trips include 1-day cruise in Aegina, Poros, Spetses, and Hydra , which was home to the critically acclaimed musician Leonard Cohen, as well as other famous playwrights.

Athens offers Meteora day trips, though it’s going to be a long day for sure as there are tons of things to do and sights to see there. Arrange an airport transfer to your hotel for a more convenient start of your vacation.

Crete/Knossos for 3 days

We already previously established that Crete is a very large and laidback place with lots of places to explore, including Knossos. It is a Bronze Age archaeological site and was a major centre of the Minoan Civilization.

Some of the things to do and places to visit at or near Knossos include visiting its Palace, Heraklion City tour, Mount Ida hiking, Crete Historical Museum, or swimming at the nearby beaches. There is also a waterpark in Heraklion for those who prefer pools over beaches.

There are a couple of ways to reach Crete if you’re from Athens . There are locations where ferry rides are more advisable, but for this one, I highly recommend riding the plane unless you rent a car and plan to bring it with you.

This is because flying is faster, with a travel duration of more or less 3 hours while ferry rides last from anywhere between 7 hours to 16 hours, depending on the ferry line, ferry type, and route.

Meteora for 2 days

Meteora is a rock formation found in the region of Trikala in Thessaly, Greece. It is famous for hosting the most precipitously built and largest complexes of Eastern Orthodox Monasteries, second in terms of importance to Mount Athos. It is also included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The distance between Crete and Meteora is 584 km . There aren’t any direct transportation options, so you have to ride multiple rides before you can go to Meteora, but once you are here, it will all be worth it.

Corfu for 3 days

Corfu is a Greek Island in the Ionian Sea. It is administered by 3 municipalities with the islands of Ereikoussa, Mathraki, and Orthonoi. It is famous for its cluster of colourful buildings dating back to the Venetian period .

While staying here during your two weeks in Greece, you could try out local foods through a guided tour around Old Town, explore Corfu on a jeep safari, or through an Odyssey-themed boat tour.

There are two ways to reach Corfu if you’re coming from Meteora . The fastest way is to drive to Igoumenitsa and then take a ferry, with a travel time of around 3 hours and 30 minutes. The cheapest option is to take a ferry solely, but it has a travel time of 6 hours.

Corfu is the ideal place to end your trip because aside from the pristine beaches and its rich military history, you’ll also find tons of quiet hideaways, unique views, and generally a laidback village lifestyle where you can just unwind to the fullest.

The cheapest option is to ride the bus and ferry, and then the bus again, which has a travel time of almost 18 hours, while the fastest is to ride the plane and then take the bus, which has a travel time of 7 to 9 hours, depending on the route.

Itinerary #3: Away from Tourists (Northern Greece)

This third itinerary also highlights laid-back locations, perfect for those not fond of crowds, long queues, and the like .

There are a couple of not-so-popular places included here which are as good, if not better, than the famous tourist spots in Greece, so for me, you also need to check out these locations.

Another good thing about places that aren’t as famous as the usual tourist spots is that they generally have lower rates, so this is also perfect if you’re on a tight budget but still want to experience Greece.

Kavala for 3 days

Kavala is a city found in Northern Greece and is the principal seaport of Eastern Macedonia. It is also known as the Blue City because it is built on a rocky headland surrounded by turquoise blue waters.

It is a centre of fishing, commerce, tourism, and oil-related activities. Some of its tourist spots include Imaret, Kavala Fortress, Halil Bey Mosque, Ammolofoi Beach, Kavala Archeological Museum, and more.

Kavala is a perfect place to start your trip because it has everything that a tourist will want to see. Mountains, beaches, significant monuments, cityscapes, and local cuisine.

For international tourists, if you arrive in Athens, you can book a non-stop domestic flight, which is a bit over 3 hours.

Thessaloniki for 3 days

Thessaloniki is the second largest city in Greece and the capital of the geographic region of Macedonia. It is known for its vivid nightlife, ancient monuments, and a plethora of shopping options.

A lot of people also consider it the food capital of Greece. Aside from the wonderful locations here, there are also tons of day trips from this place, including Mount Athos, the Ancient City of Dion, Mount Olympus, and Meteora.

You can reach Thessaloniki from Kavala by land transportation . You can either ride the bus or drive. Riding the bus has a travel duration of more than two hours, while driving has a travel duration of more than an hour.

Vergina for 3 days

Vergina is a small town in Northern Greece that is famous for the ancient Aigai site , which is the first capital of Macedon. It was also the burial site of Macedonian Kings and was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list for its significance in Western civilisation.

There are 3 ways to reach Vergina if you’re travelling from Thessaloniki , and the cheapest option is by bus, with tickets costing around $44. Other options include booking a taxi or driving, which both take around 50 minutes.

One should not skip Meteora during these 2 weeks in Greece because besides its history and natural beauty . It also offer many activities like horseback riding, hiking, biking, mountain climbing, and rafting through the Pinios River.

A couple of other tourist attractions here are Theopetra Cave, the Natural History Museum of Meteora and Mushroom Museum, the Great Meteoron Monastery, and more.

The distance between Meteora and Vergina is around 103 km . The mode of transportation options are riding the bus or driving. Driving is both cheaper, and you’ll reach your destination faster. It has a travel time of 2 hours and costs around $35-$55.

Athens is one of the oldest cities in the world and is a must-visit as it has so much to offer. You’ll get to see a couple of essential cultural attractions here, such as The Temple of Olympian Zeus and The Temple of Hephaestus.

There are also a couple of beaches nearby for those who want their daily dose of sun and sand and, of course, numerous rooftop restaurants that offer a perfect view of the Parthenon.

There are a couple of ways to reach Athens from Meteora , and the most recommended is riding the train, which has a travel time of 4 and a half hours or taking the bus.

Athens is the perfect place to end your journey because it’s highly possible that your roundtrip flight is arriving and leaving here.

Itinerary #4: Enjoy the Beach (Athens, Mykonos, Crete, Naxos or Thera)

This is the last but definitely not the least itinerary option for those who are staying for 14 days in Greece. This is curated for those who love the beach .

The locations here are filled with crystal clear beaches, blue skies, and white sands. The islands included here are all located south of Athens, though getting from one island to another can be tricky, so it’s important to plan in advance to see if a ferry or a domestic flight is available to avoid any hassles or roadblocks on your trip.

Athens for 4 days

Start here because Athens has everything that you will need . You can get all of your essentials here, get your money changed, arrange for ferry services, or go to car rental shops, you name it, it’s all here.

You can also see a lot of historical sights here, so you can have your fill of history before you go and visit beaches and islands on the next stops of this itinerary.

Mykonos for 3 days

Mykonos is a Greek Island lying between Paros, Naxos, Syros, and Tinos. It is also known as The Island of the Winds because of the strong winds that usually blow on the island, and it is parallel to Ibiza in terms of vibrant nightlife .

Some of the must-see attractions here include Mykonos Windmills, Paraportiani Church, Little Venice, and Cavo Paradiso, among others. You can also rent a motorbike to tour the city.

There are 3 ways to reach Mykonos from Athens . You can fly directly from Athens to Mykonos, you can also ride the car ferry or the ferry, which is the cheapest option. The travel time for flying is more than 3 hours, but it’s only more than 2 hours for car ferries.

Crete for 3 days

Crete is the largest and most populous Greek island, the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea, and the 88th largest island in the world. Crete is a must-visit because aside from great landscapes and good food, it also has some of the best wines, vibrant nightlife, and mountain towns.

Some of the must-visit places here include Psychro, Samaria Gorge, Elafonissi Beach, Lychnostatis Open Air Museum, Old Venetian Port of Chania, and more.

Personally, this is my favourite Greek island . Yes, it’s a popular one and quite busy. But it’s a big island. It means you can easily find a little spot to relax and enjoy a serene atmosphere, but at the same time, you can find everything you want from the main town.

In order to reach Crete from Mykonos, you could fly, ride the car ferry, or ferry. The travel duration for a car ferry ride is 4 and a half hours while flying has a travel time of 4 hours to 4 hours and 30 minutes because most flights connect back to Athens.

Naxos or Santorini for 4 days

Naxos is considered one of the most beautiful Greek islands. It is well-known for its impressive monuments and expansive natural landscapes, filled with various greenery such as mountains, green valleys, and forests.

Some of its iconic landmarks include Portara, Chora, which is the main town, Plaka, Kastro, and more. Compared to Santorini, Naxos is quieter, so this might be perfect for those who aren’t fond of crowds, and since it’s not that well-known, the prices are generally lower.

Thera, on the other hand, is an ancient, perfectly round volcano island that is now known as Santorini. It is famous for its divine sunsets, the historical site of Akrotiri, as well as red, black, and white sand beaches.

If you prefer crowds and vibrant nightlife, then Santorini is the better option for you. It is also closer to Athens as it would only take you 50 minutes to reach your destination.

Another travel option from Athens to Santorini is by ferry ride, which has a travel time of 4 to 7 hours, depending on the boat type. As for Athens to Naxos, you can ride the car ferry, ferry, or fly.

Flying is the fastest option, with a travel time of more than 2 hours. I prefer to end the trip in Naxos because of its multifaceted landscape since it is a mountainous island. Before you arrive in Santorini, arrange a transport to your hotel .

Being a part of the Cyclades group, it is also near other islands, so you would be able to have a fun island-hopping experience. It also has a nice climate all year round, perfect for vacationers.

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN GREECE (per city)

This list of things to do in Greece can help you plan your 2 weeks in Greece itinerary. This list also includes tours and sightseeing activities you can book. If you’re visiting from June to August, book your tickets in advance to ensure you’ll one one for the dates you will be there.

• Explore Athens via a hop-on, hop-off red bus or yellow bus or an e-bike tour or hop-on or a half-day tour or a full-day tour or the Mythological tour or a biblical tour
• Monastiraki Square
• The Prison of Socrates
• Lycabettus Hill Funicular
• Acropolis – book an afternoon walking tour or Acropolis tour combo with 6 other archaelogical sites
• Acropolis Museum
• Philopappos Monument
• Areopagus Hill
• Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Center
• Go on a cruise – 3 islands featuring Agistri, Moni, and Aegina with lunch and drinks, see the price first
• Erechtheion
• Hike to Veikou Grove
• Day trip – to Delphi or Delphi and Arachova or Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon or to Meteora by train
• Attend a show at Petra’s Theater
• Statue of Athena
• Hadrian’s Library
• Technopolis City of Athens
• Discover Greek cuisine through a food tour or gourmet walking food tour or this food-tasting tour
• Travel around Corfu by hop-on, hop-off bus or sightseeing tour
• Capodistrias Museum – Kapodistrias Museum
• The Achilleion Palace
• D-Marin Gouvia Marina
• Book a boat cruise – to Antipaxos and Paxos Blue Caves or Corfu Town with lunch and drinks or underwater boat tour or book a private yacht or a sunset cruise with cocktails
• Danilia Village
• Kontokali Beach
• Day trip – to Saranda and Butrint National Park
• Old Fortress of Corfu
• Join a food tour or food walking tour
• Archaeological Museum of Corfu
• Go ATV Quad bike adventure – read the reviews
• Discover Crete wineries and olive farms through this food tour or this cooking class
• Old Venetian Port of Chania
• Enjoy Crete and go sightseeing with – this full-day tour
• White Mountains Forest Preserve
• Knossos – visit the museums with audio guides
• Museum Of Typography
• Dia Island Cruise from Heraklion – either this sailing tour or this cruise
• Heraklion Archaeological Museum
• Heraklion Lighthouse – get a hop-on, hop-off bus pass for Heraklion
• Natural History Museum of Crete
• Samaria George – join a day hike from Chania or from Rethymno
• Elafonissi Beach
• Day trip to Santorini or Day trip to Elafonisi Island from Chania
• Rethymnon Old Town
• Boat trip to Spinalonga from Agios Nikolaos – read the reviews
• Dive in the Matala Caves
• Quad-bike safari trip from Rethymno – look at the price first or this one that picks up from other parts of Crete
• Kavala Beach
• Kavala Archaeological Museum
• Rapsani Beach
• Tobacco Museum of Municipality of Kavala
• Kavala Fortress
• Waterfalls of Kavala
• Thasos Island
• Explore Mykonos’ main attractions through a – sightseeing-guided tour or this one with a local guide or Old Town walking tour or a half-day tour
• Armenistis lighthouse
• Paralia Ftelias
• Agios Stefanos Beach
• Delos Island Archaeological Site – read the tour reviews or an evening guided tour or just pay for the transfer only
• Fokos Beach
• Paralia Kalo Livadi
• Rhenia Island – book a combo Delos Island and Rhenia boat tour or this one
• Paradise Beach
• Gyzi Castle
• Discover Greek food and wine – check this wine-tasting tour or Souvlaki cooking class with a local
• Boni’s Windmill
• View of Alefkandra (Little Venice)
• Go on a cruise – a sunset cruise with drinks
• Explore Paros with a bus tour
• Kayak and Snorkelling – book the trip with a snack or picnic
• Boat Rental with Self-drive – check the cost
• Boat tour covering Paros, Antiparos, and Despotiko – read the reviews
• Day trip on a boat to Delos Island and Mykonos from Paros – see the price
• Sailing trip from Antiparos – book the trip with lunch and drinks
• Horseback riding – there’s an evening tour
• Marble workshop or a watercolor workshop – a perfect way to make a unique souvenir
• Book a traditional cooking class or a pasta-making class
• City tour – full-day bus tour or bus tour with swim stop at Apollonas or Greek Mythology sunset tour or a sunset city walk
• Venetian Castle of Naxos
• Temple of Apollo – Portara
• Sailing Cruise with lunch – read the reviews or a Catamaran Cruise with snorkelling and food/drinks or a Cyclades sailing cruise
• Agios Georgios Beach
• Temple of Dionysus, Yria
• Hike to Cyclades Mount Zas – check the price
• Agios Prokopios Beach
• Maragkas Beach
• Do a marble carving – look at the itinerary
• Temple of Demeter
• Mikri Vigla Beach
• Join a cooking class or food tour – half-day at Basiliko Family Tavern or a cultural food tour
• Zeus’ Childhood Cave
• Alyko Beach
• Go wine-tasting – a food tour with wine or wine-tasting at Saint Anna
• Tower of Ayia
• Hike the Fira to Oia Walk
• Castle of Oia
• Travel around Santorini – via a bus tour with Oia sunset or Blue Shade tour or a 6-hour sightseeing tour
• Fira Theotokopoulos Main Square
• Santorini Old Harbor
• Fira Scenic Spot
• Volcanic Islands – cruise with a hotspring visit or Caldera half-day tour
• The Heart of Santorini
• Lost Atlantis Experience – Interactive Museum
• Catamaran cruise – with a meal and open bar or BBQ and drinks or all-inclusive luxury cruise or cruise with meal, drinks, and transfers
• Castello Veneziano
• Caldera Beach
• Go scuba diving – dive at Volcanic Caldera
• Akrotiri and Akrotiri Lighthouse
• Attend a Greek Wedding show – get your entry ticket in advance
• Ancient Thera
• Perissa Beach
• Do a wine-tasting – wine and tapas or highlights tour with wine-tasting and sunset in Oia
• Kamari Beach
• Open Air Cinema Kamari
• Santorini Caldera

Thessaloniki

• Thessaloniki City Tour – get a hop-on, hop-off bus pass or a walking tour
• Arch of Galerius
• Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
• OTE Tower – get your admission ticket with a light meal
• Aristotelous Square
• White Tower of Thessaloniki
• Go Sailing – to Shipwreck Bay or to Blue Lagoon
• Thessaloniki Concert Hall
• War Museum of Thessaloniki
• Day trip to Meteora – see the itinerary
• Museum of Byzantine Culture
• Day trip to Mount Olympus – with Canyoning trip or with Dion combo
• Lazaristes Monastery
• Day trip to Pozar Thermal Baths and Edessa – read the reviews
• Kalochori Lagoon
• Day trip to Kerkini Lake – check the cost
• Mount Chortiatis
• Olympic Museum Thessaloniki
• Day trip to Vergina and Pella – book the tour
• Thessaloniki Waterfront
• Join a food tour – gastronomy and cultural tour or How Greeks Eat tour
• Pasha’s Gardens

LOCAL GREEK DISHES AND DRINKS TO TRY

They say the Mediterranean diet is an amazing way to stay healthy due to its rich in healthy fats and centred on plant-based foods. Perhaps here’s your chance to give it a try. Here’s a list of Greek dishes that you must give a shot during your visit:

• Moussaka : A layered dish of eggplant, meat, and béchamel sauce.
• Souvlaki : Skewered and grilled meat, often served in a pita wrap.
• Tzatziki : A yogurt-based dip flavored with cucumber and garlic.
• Spanakopita : A spinach and cheese pie wrapped in flaky phyllo dough.
• Gyro: Rotisserie-cooked meat served with vegetables and sauce in a pita.
• Saganaki : Fried cheese, often flambéed tableside.
• Pastitsio : A baked pasta dish with meat and béchamel sauce.
• Dolmades : Grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs.
• Baklava : A sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo, filled with nuts and honey.
• Galaktoboureko : A custard pie wrapped in phyllo.
• Loukoumades : Deep-fried dough balls covered in syrup.
• Kourabiedes : Almond shortbread cookies coated in powdered sugar.
• Ouzo : A strong anise-flavoured liquor.
• Retsina : A unique pine-resin flavoured wine.
• Frappé : A popular iced coffee drink.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN GREECE (per city)

Accommodations are the ones that get booked up fast, especially during the peak season. There awesome hotels, which are well-located and decently-priced gets snatched quick, so book your room as soon as you know the dates.

• Affordable: When in Athens Hostel or Athens Quinta or Bedbox Hostel or Mosaikon Glostel or Athens Raise Acropolis Project
• Mid-range: Still Athens or Attalos Hotel or Ederlezi Boutique Hotel
• Luxury: B4B Athens Signature Hotel or Belle Epoque Suites or The Athens Gate Hotel or Colors Hotel Athens
• Affordable: Corfu Room or The Pink Palace Hostel or Sunflower Apartments and Studios
• Mid-range: Spyridoula Resort or Mythos Apartment or Telesilla Hotel
• Luxury: Acharavi Beach Hotel or Casa Verde or Domes of Cofru by Autograph
• Affordable: So Young Hostel or Intra Muros Hostel or Alexis Hotel or Corinna Mare
• Mid-range: Notus Chania Crete or Hyperion City Hotel & Spa or Spilia Village Hotel & Villas
• Luxury: Seaside A Lifestyle Resort (adults only) or Creta Maris Resort or Manili Boutique Suites & Villas or Peninsula Resort & Spa
• Affordable to Mid-range: Old Town Inn or Esperia Hotel or Castello Boutique Rooms
• Luxury: UrbanBay Hotel & Spa or Lucy Hotel or Blue Apartments or Airotel Galaxy
• Affordable: The Holy Rock Hostel or Meteora Central Hostel or Panos House
• Mid-range: Guesthouse Bloutsos Rooms or Guesthouse Kastelia or Rooms Batalogianni or Zosimas House
• Luxury: Alsos House or Hotel Doupiani House or Tsikeli Boutique Hotel
• Affordable: Island Mykonos Suites or Pension Alexandra or Elena Hotel or Villa V a rnali Boutique
• Mid-range: Sunset Paraportiani Rooms or Mykonos View Hotel or Hotel Adonis
• Luxury: Semeli Hotel or Yalos Hotel or Harmony Boutique Hotel
• Affordable: Iliovasilema or Infinity Apartments or Burgos Barrio
• Mid-range: Naxos Illusion Nikos Verikokos or Anatoli Hotel or Ippokampos Beachfront or Annio Studios
• Luxury: Portara Seaside Luxury Suites or Argo Boutique Hotel or Hotel Grotta
• Affordable: Madaky Hotel or Siroco’s Rooms and Studios or Anixis Studios Aliki
• Mid-range: Villa Isabella or Hotel Iris or Apollon Boutique Hotel or Stella Hotel
• Luxury: Hotel Senia or Blue Waves Suites & Apartments or Katerina Mare
• Affordable: Gianna Suites or Unique Galini Oia (adults only) or Cyclades Hotel or Kamari Beach Hotel
• Mid-range: Irene City Villas or Alleys All-Suites Hotel & Spa or Caldera Premium Villas
• Luxury: Altana Heritage Suites or Elitoz Suites or The Museum Project Oia or SantAnna Luxury Suites
• Affordable: Zeus is Loose Hostel or Luxury Aristotelous or Nea Metropolis
• Mid-range: V1 Boutique Rooms or Hotel Ilisia
• Luxury: Plaza Hotel and Resorts or Luxury Living Apartments and Spa or Mandrino Hotel

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN GREECE

I can’t believe that we have already reached the end of the article. I was so drawn to everything Greece has to offer that I didn’t realise that I was already writing the last parts of it.

However, I believe I wasn’t able to share everything yet as there are still more reasons to visit Greece. One of those is its tons of natural Geothermal wonders that will revitalise and rejuvenate you. In fact, they have more than 800 geographical thermal springs locations all throughout the country.

Aside from that, you wouldn’t want to miss many off-the-beaten paths in Greece. Metsovo, Kastoria, Volos, Karpenisi, Tinos, Spetses, and Folegandros are some of the locations that come to mind.

I hope that this compilation of amazing travel itineraries of 2 weeks in Greece has been useful in your planning.

TO SAVE THIS ITINERARY, PIN THIS IMAGE BELOW:

Itinerary for Greece & Greek Islands

Greece › Itineraries Updated: March 12, 2024 By Santorini Dave

• Aegina – where to stay
• Andros – where to stay
• Athens – where to stay
• Corfu – where to stay
• Crete – where to stay
• Delphi – where to stay
• Hydra – where to stay
• Meteora – where to stay
• Milos – where to stay
• Mykonos – where to stay
• Nafplio – where to stay
• Naxos – where to stay
• Paros – where to stay
• Poros – where to stay
• Rhodes – where to stay
• Santorini – where to stay
• Spetses – where to stay
• Zakynthos – where to stay
• Greek Islands – where to go
• Mainland Greece – where to go
• Peloponnese – where to go

The Acropolis and Plaka (my favorite neighborhood) in Athens , Greece. I recommend at least a few days in Athens for any first-time visitor to Greece.

My Favorites for First Time Visitors Best Places to Visit: Athens • Santorini • Mykonos • Naxos • Paros Best Tours: Santorini Wine Tours • Santorini Boat Tours • Mykonos Boat Tours • Athens Historical Tours Best Ancient Sites: Delphi , Meteora , Delos (near Mykonos), and the Peloponnese are some of the historical highlights of Greece. Best for Honeymoon: Santorini is a marvelous honeymoon destination . On Crete, Chania is also great. Best Restaurants: Most towns and every island have several good restaurants. Athens , Naxos , and Santorini are loaded with great places to eat (both modern and traditional). Best Beaches: Naxos has the best beaches in Greece . Best Nightlife: Santorini • Mykonos Most Fun Activity: The Fira-Oia Hike along the caldera in Santorini. (Bonus: It’s free!) Best Hotels: Athens , Santorini , and Mykonos have the best luxury hotels. How Many Days in Greece: For most tourists, I recommend a visit of 10 to 15 days. This allows for a few days in Athens; a day or overnight trip to Nafplio, Delphi, or the Meteora; and a few nights on 2 or 3 Greek islands. Of course, trips of more or fewer days are great too. If possible arrive into one airport and fly out of a different airport so you don’t have to retrace your steps (e.g. Fly into Greece to Athens, and fly out of Greece from Santorini). Can you visit Greece for only two or three nights? Yes, it’s possible, but in this case limit your visit to either Athens or just one Greek island and arrive and depart from the same airport.

Greek Island Itinerary – The Basics

5 Days in Greece Athens – 1 Full Day Santorini, Mykonos, Paros, or Naxos – remainder of time 1 Week in Greece Athens – 1 Full Day Mykonos, Paros, or Naxos – 3 Days Santorini – 3 Days 10 Days in Greece Athens – 1 Full Day Mykonos – 3 Days Paros or Naxos – 3 Days Santorini – 3 Days 2 Weeks in Greece Athens – 2 Full Days Nafplio or Delphi day trip – 1 Day Mykonos – 3 Days Paros – 2 Days Naxos – 2 Days Santorini – 4 Days 3 Weeks in Greece Athens – 2 Full Days Nafplio, Delphi, or Meteora – 1 or 2 Days Mykonos – 3 Days Paros – 2 Days Naxos – 3 Days Milos, Folegandros, or Sifnos – 2 Days Santorini – 4 Days Agios Nikolaos (Crete) – 2 Days Chania (Crete) – 3 Days Greece Itinerary: Top 5 Highlights 1. The Santorini Caldera Santorini is the most magical and unique Greek island. Boat tours of the volcanic caldera are a highlight of any trip to Greece. 2. The Beaches of Naxos (and Many Greek Islands) There are many Greek islands with fantastic beaches (Mykonos, Milos, Paros, and Crete) but no island has a better beach scene than Naxos. 3. The Parthenon and Acropolis in Athens Athens has lots to see in a compact area. The Plaka, Acropolis and Acropolis Museum are where you should spend most of your time. 4. The Beach Clubs & Nightlife of Mykonos Mykonos is the place to go for an ideal mix of great beaches , beach clubs , and nightlife . 5. The Town of Chania in Crete Chania is a charming town on the island of Crete (the largest Greek island). Both Chania and Heraklio have many international flights to other cities in Europe which make it a great place to start or finish your holiday vacation. And Crete has many amazing tours . Read More Where To Go in Greece Mykonos Travel Guide Santorini Travel Guide Greece Travel Guide Best Hotels in Greece

About Santorini Dave

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Greece Trip Planner

Top destinations in greece.

Top attractions in Greece

Other notable attractions

Explore nearby places

• Agioi Anargyroi
• Agia Varvara
• Agios Ioannis Rentis
• Agios Dimitrios
• Nea Filadelfia
• Paleo Faliro

All related maps of Greece

• Map of Greece
• Map of Athens
• Map of Tavros
• Map of Kessariani
• Map of Kaisariani
• Map of Kallithea
• Map of Zografou
• Map of Egaleo
• Map of Vyronas
• Map of Dafni
• Map of Nea Smirni
• Map of Ymittos
• Map of Peristeri
• Map of Galatsi
• Map of Agioi Anargyroi
• Map of Agia Varvara
• Map of Agios Ioannis Rentis
• Map of Moschato
• Map of Agios Dimitrios
• Map of Nea Filadelfia
• Map of Ilion
• Map of Chaidari
• Map of Ilioupoli
• Map of Korydallos
• Map of Paleo Faliro
• Map of Nikaia
• Map of Filothei
• Map of Cholargos
• Map of Nea Ionia
• Map of Petroupoli
• Map of Alimos

Greece throughout the year

• Greece in January
• Greece in February
• Greece in March
• Greece in April
• Greece in May
• Greece in June
• Greece in July
• Greece in August
• Greece in September
• Greece in October
• Greece in November
• Greece in December

Q&A about Greece

Add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

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

Explore related stories

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Summer is just around the corner in the northern hemisphere. Here's where the Lonely Planet team is going.

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 15, 2024 • 4 min read

Feb 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 29, 2024 • 11 min read

Jan 19, 2024 • 11 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Jan 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Your unforgettable Greece adventure starts here

Customized experiences in greece designed by a local expert, what is flanner.

Flanner is a personalized travel service that simplifies and elevates your Greece trip. Explore Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini with customized Greece travel packages and itineraries designed by a local expert. Enjoy a unique, seamless experience without worrying about tourist traps or missing out.

Get access to our insider connections and expertise that only come from growing up in Greece. We’ll make sure your Greece trip is stress-free, exciting, unique, and unforgettable.

Why use Flanner?

Are you ready to explore Greece’s best-kept secrets? Get insider access to our most stunning destinations and hidden spots. As a well-traveled local who grew up here, I’ve got a comprehensive network and understand what makes an experience unforgettable.

Say goodbye to tourist traps

No more overwhelming travel guides and worrying about whether you're in the right place or are spending your time right. Relax and let us take care of it. Get a personalized Greece trave package and itinerary based on your preferences. All you have to do is to show up!

Transparent pricing

We believe in transparency and honesty. Our customized Greece travel packages are clearly listed, with no hidden fees or surprises. You'll always know what you're paying for.

100 % satisfaction guarantee

We're confident in our abilities to exceed your expectations. That's why we offer a 100 % satisfaction guarantee on all our Greece travel packages. If you're not happy with your experience, we'll make it right.

Customized Greece travel packages

Choose from an exciting mix of customizable Greece tour packages, based on the number of days you're planning to stay. We'll work with you to create a bespoke itinerary that matches your idea of perfection.

What Customers Say

"i didn't have to worry about anything".

"What an amazing experience"

"Amazing trip, stress-free! Would do it again"

Ready to design your personalized Greece adventure?

Greece travel inspiration.

Copyright 2023

• Terms & Conditions
• Cancellation Policies
• Cookie Policy

Planning a Trip to Greece: Your Travel Checklist

It seems like a trip to Greece is on everyone’s travel bucket list, and we can hardly blame them! Allison and I have both traveled extensively around Greece, exploring both mainland Greece and far-flung islands.

Since traveling to Greece can incorporate so many different types of travel styles, it’s common for people to have a lot of questions as they start planning a trip to Greece. Especially if you’re coming to Greece for a special event like an anniversary or a honeymoon, you’re probably concerned with how to plan the best Greece vacation.

To make it easier, we’ve created this easy 11 point checklist for traveling to Greece to help you make sure you’ve covered all of the important pre-trip planning steps so you can sit back and enjoy your Greek vacation once you get here! Consider this your one-stop Greece trip planner.

Want to pin this guide to planning your Greece trip? Click below!

> Read Next: 30 Magical Things to Do in Athens in Winter & Athens Winter Day Trips! <<

Where to Stay in Greece

If you’re visiting Greece any time soon, you’ll probably spend some time in Athens before moving to discover other amazing places in the country. In that case, it’s a good idea to check this  accommodation guide to Athens  to find the best places to stay in Greece’s capital. Check  this article  as well, if you’d like to book a room with unforgettable Acropolis views.

Remember that booking early is always the best way to get better prices and nicer rooms! We recommend checking out  Booking.com  as early as possible since this is a popular time to visit. These are some of the places we suggest you check.

Budget:  If you’re looking for a budget hotel in lively Monastiraki, book a stay at  Fivos Hote l. Located right by Monastiraki Station, the hotel has free wifi and ensuite bathrooms.  Check out prices and availability at Fivos Hotel here .

Mid-range:  If you want more traditional accommodation, stay at the  Kimons Athens Hotel  in Plaka. The rooms are cozy and there’s a roof terrace that guests can enjoy.  Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Kimons Athens Hotel here .

Luxury:  To enjoy a bit of luxury in Monastiraki, check into the four-star  Emporikon Athens Hotel  on Agia Irini Square. The rooms are sophisticated and swanky, with a traditional take on comfort.  Check out guest reviews, prices, and availability at Emporikon Athens Hotel here .

Step 1:  Check to See if You Need a Visa

Greece is one of the two Balkan countries that are part of the Schengen Zone, the block of twenty-six European countries that use a common visa system.

Passport holders from Schengen Zone member countries do not need a travel visa to visit Greece:

Austria, Hungary, Norway, Belgium, Iceland, Poland, Czech Republic, Italy, Portugal, Denmark, Latvia, Slovakia, Estonia, Liechtenstein, Slovenia, Finland, Lithuania, Spain, France, Luxembourg, Sweden, Germany, Malta, Switzerland, Greece, and the Netherlands

Additionally, passport holders from these countries can visit the Schengen Zone without a travel visa for up to 90 days out of a 180 day period:

Albania, Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Bosnia and Herzegovina*, Brazil, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, El Salvador, Georgia, Grenada, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong S.A.R*, Israel, Japan, Kiribati, Macao S.A.R*, Macedonia*, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova*, Monaco*, Montenegro*, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Palau, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent, Samoa, Serbia*, Seychelles, Singapore, Solomon Islands, South Korea, Taiwan**, Timor Leste, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tuvalu, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu, Venezuela

Countries marked with an asterisk have special requirements to be allowed visa-free travel to the Schengen zone.

Note that travel to one country in the Schengen Zone starts the clock on your ninety days, so you can travel to Greece for up to ninety days or spread it out amongst different countries.

If you have been traveling the Schengen Zone for a while before arriving in Greece, make sure you have enough days left so that you don’t overstay.

While we will try to keep this post updated, you also always want to check visa rules ahead of time with the country you are visiting as well as your own country. You can check updated Schengen Zone information here .

Step 2. Book Your Tickets

I’ll never forget seeing the view out of the plane window the first time I flew to Greece. Landing in Athens, it looked like I was flying into a mythical paradise.

I’d actually decided to visit on a whim since Athens was the cheapest flight from Cyprus, where I’d been staying. However, as soon as I saw Greece first-hand, I was hooked.

I am not the only traveler first enticed to visit Greece because of the abundance of cheap flights available. The country has a lot of cheap flights available from most of Europe, as well as having a lot of great budget flights to help you hop between Greek islands .

If you are coming from North America, flights will be more expensive. However, you may want to compare the prices of flying into Athens and flying to one of the islands directly when it comes time to plan a trip to Greece.

You may save money by spending a few days in Athens and booking a separate flight to the islands (or even taking a ferry).

To find the best value for your flights, we suggest  Skyscanner  and  Google Flights . Use Skyscanner’s “Everywhere” feature to check all of the various airports in Greece, since the country has so many different ones. Google Flights has a nicer interface and updates with the correct prices faster, so there are no disappointments when you click through, unlike Skyscanner.

Step 3. Plan Your Greece Itinerary

Many people who visit Greece explore a combination of Athen and the mainland plus some islands. However, there are so many places to visit in Greece that it would be impossible to give one example itinerary that would cover all the best options. Here are some things you need to ask yourself when it comes time to plan your trip to Greece.

• Am I interested in exploring Athens and seeing ancient sites like the Acropolis?
• Do I want to spend time on mainland Greece seeing Meteora, Olympus, or the Oracle of Delphi?
• Do I want to spend time exploring multiple islands and experiencing how they are different?
• Do I want to explore one Greek island in-depth?

The answer to these questions will help you figure out how best to divide your time. I’ve spent almost two months in Greece, and I’ve barely scratched the surface! Don’t feel bad if you can’t see everything you want to on your first trip here. You can always come back!

Here are some good guidelines to keep in mind when planning a Greece vacation.

If you have four days or less to travel in Greece, stick to one place. This would be a great amount of time for an initial trip to Athens. You can even include one day trip like the Oracle of Delphi or a cruise to the nearest three Greek islands.

If you have a week, you can explore two places. Alternatively, you can base yourself somewhere for the week and add in a day trip or two. For example, you can spend three days in Athens and then four days in Crete  or Rhodes.

You could also spend the week in Athens, but add in a day trip to Delphi, an island day cruise, or Meteora. Or you could spend three days in Athens, and then rent a car and see Meteora , Olympus, and Delphi on a Greek road trip. Greece has so many options, and it’s hard to go wrong when it comes to choosing how to plan a trip to Greece!

If you have more than a week, then I suggest spending a few days in Athens and then picking a few Greek islands to explore. For each island, you’ll want three or four days so that you have time to sightsee and also to relax.

While the most popular islands are Santorini , Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes, Greece has dozens of amazing islands for you to explore. You can also combine a few popular ones with one or two that are less touristy.

An important part of picking your Greece vacation itinerary is going to be knowing how you’ll get between destinations (unless you’re staying in one place). Check prices for both flights and ferries, and book these ahead of time if you’re traveling between April and September when it’s high season.

If you are trying to decide where to go in Greece, we’ve created a few pieces to help you decide:

• Where to Go in Greece: 27 Top Greece Vacation Destinations
• Greek Island Hopping: The Best Islands to Visit

If you are combining a trip to Greece with visits to additional Balkan countries, you’ll want to check out these Balkan travel resources. We think Bulgaria is the best country to combine with Greece, but Turkey is also an excellent choice.

• These are the 12 Balkan Countries Plus the Top Reason to Visit Each One
• The 10 Balkan Itinerary Commandments
• 41 Balkan Travel Tips
• Balkan Bus Trips: 10 Things You Must Know Before Your Ride

Step 4. Plan Your Activities

After you decide where you’re going to go, you’ll want to decide which activities to enjoy. In Athens, it’s popular to do day trips to some of the more important sites on the mainland like Delphi, Cape Sounion, and Meteora. If you’re going to be on the islands, you will want to look into boating activities, water sports, and walking tours.

We use and recommend GetYourGuide for booking tours in Greece and the Balkans.  We like that they have the best price guarantee and that they tell you the name of the tour companies they partner with (unlike Viator), so you can research it and be sure it’s worth your money!

If you are traveling between April and September, you will want to make sure your tours and activities are booked in advance since Greece is a hot tourist destination. I have traveled to Greece in the shoulder season (early April and October), and I still found that my tours were full or almost full.

Step 5. Budget Your Trip

Once you know where you want to go and how long you have, you can put together your trip budget.

Greece is a great budget-friendly destination compared to most of Western Europe, but if you’re traveling through the rest of the Balkans first, prices will seem a bit higher.

Even in cities like Athens and touristy cities like Rhodes, there are budget options available. We personally choose to stay in private rooms in hostels or AirBnB apartments over hostel dorms, but there are dorm beds available on almost every island to help you save money.

You can find hostels in Athens for around $15 a night, but expect to spend a bit more on the islands, up to $30 or even $40 in popular places like Santorini in the high season.

You can travel through Greece on $40 USD per day by staying in dorms, eating falafel and other cheap street food, and minimizing your activities and travel between places.

When I travel through Greece, I typically spend closer to USD 60 per day and enjoy that Greece offers some true bargains in this price range.

For someone wanting the best of everything, like fancy hotels, fine dining, and the best activities, you’ll find that this will cost much less than a similarly luxurious trip in France or Italy. So if you want to have a seriously bougie time somewhere, Greece is a great value.

Good ways to cut down costs without sacrificing quality is to travel with someone so that you can split costs, enjoy your nicer meals at lunch when there are specials, and opt for public transportation between cities whenever possible.

Step 6. Book Your Accommodations

Once you’ve decided out what you want to spend per night on accommodations, it’s time to book! We use Booking.com  because we like that they have free cancellation if you end up changing your plans. This is critical in Greece since you may decide to change your itinerary if you uncover a new Greek vacation spot that you need to add.

Booking.com  also has a wide selection of types of accommodations. On my last trip to Greece, I stayed at a budget hotel in Rhodes, a private villa in Crete , and a mid-range hotel in Athens.

One great way to keep accommodation costs down is to stay somewhere nice at one destination, and then pick a budget hotel at your next destination.

Step 7. Research Any Vaccinations You May Need

Greece has a lot of animals, both stray and wild. There are stray dogs and cats everywhere, many of which are taken care of by local business owners and families. Since we can’t help ourselves, visiting Greece is basically like visiting one giant petting zoo of friendly dogs and cats. The only animals we wouldn’t feel comfortable petting in Greece are bats (not that I would pet those anyways). According to the CDC :

Rabies is present in bats in Greece. However, it is not a major risk to most travelers. CDC recommends rabies vaccine for only these groups:

Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities in remote areas that put them at risk for bat bites (such as adventure travel and caving).

People who will be working with or around bats (such as wildlife professionals and researchers).

Anyone not at high risk for a bat run-in just needs to be up-to-date on normal shots:

Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.

Step 8: Learn a Few Common Greek Words and Brush Up on the Greek Alphabet

One thing that a lot of travelers from North America and Western Europe overlook is that Greece still uses the Greek alphabet. This means that reading maps, street signs, and menus will be more difficult.

The more off-the-path you are (like when we visited the tiny beach town of Agia Triada outside of Thessaloniki), the more helpful knowing the Greek alphabet will be.

Most tourism professionals and people in the service industry speak amazing English. The one area where my friends and I found it more difficult not speaking Greek was when it comes to dating since locals who don’t interact with many tourists are less likely to speak fluent English. This does make for some fun misunderstandings, though!

The Greek alphabet was the precursor to Cyrillic, so many letters are similar. Plus, anyone who’s taken secondary math and science classes will be familiar with some of the letters.

For Americans who were in fraternities or sororities in college, your days of memorizing the Greek alphabet for rush will certainly come in handy here! (That’s how I learned it). Here’s a great primer  for anyone who wants to brush up!

Here are the Greek phrases we recommend you have handy for your trip to Greece:

Hello   = Yasou

Hi (Informal) = Yah

Good Morning = Kaliméra

Good Evening (Can also be used for Good Afternoon though it doesn’t technically mean this)  = Kalispera

Good Night (right before bed only) = Kalinikta

Goodbye = Antío Sas or Yah

Please = Parakaló

Thank You = Efkharistó

Excuse Me = Synchoréste Me

Okay or Good = Kalós

I Don’t Understand = Den Katalavaíno

Do You Speak English? = Milás Angliká

Note that Greek is an inflected language, so pronunciation and inflection change the meaning. If a Greek doesn’t understand the word’s meaning based on your pronunciation, don’t be offended! English and Greek speakers mentally classify words differently in our heads.

One of the biggest misunderstandings native English speakers have in Greece is with the Greek word for yes. When a Greek says  Ne,  a lot of English speakers will inadvertently hear No . Be careful since this can cause headaches!

We always recommend a good translator app, like Google Translate, just in case!

Step 9. Pack Your Bags

We are in the process of creating packing lists to help you know what to pack for Greece, but until then, here are some items you don’t want to leave home without:

• A Lonely Planet guidebook, to help you plan when on the ground
• An unlocked smartphone, so you can buy a cheap SIM card and use taxi apps in Athens
• An extra swimsuit so you can enjoy Greece’s beaches without having to put a wet one back on. Never go to Greece without a swimsuit! Even when you don’t think you’ll be at a beach, Greece tends to surprise you!
• Seasickness pills and Seabands for taking the ferries between Greek islands.
• Sunscreen (if you’re bringing checked luggage). Sunscreen and other cosmetics can be expensive in Greece compared to back home.

Step 10. Prepare For Your Arrival

Since there’s no universal way to arrive at a destination in Greece , you’ll want to do some prep work beforehand to make sure you know how you’ll get from the airport, ferry station, or bus station to your hotel.

Flying into Athens

This is the most common way for visitors to arrive in Greece. Since I first traveled to Greece in 2016, several things about Athens ground transportation have changed. Uber has been kicked out, so you have two options. Take a taxi from the official taxi stand (with a set rate) or take the train. I’ve used both, and the train will save you a lot of money while the taxi will save you a lot of time.

We were able to convince a taxi driver to take five of us into the city for ten euros more than the official rate, which saved us money. I don’t recommend this, however, as the ride was a bit harrowing!

While you can’t use Uber at the airport, you can use the taxi app Beat which works similarly to Uber after you’re in the city.

If you plan on taking the train into Athens, have the instructions written out and easily accessible since you may not have working data on your cell phone yet. We also recommend downloading the Google Maps area for wherever you travel so that it’s available offline.

Flying into Other Airports

I’ve also flown into Thessaloniki, Crete, and Rhodes, and at all three I found that the taxi rate was set from the airport. My Airbnb host graciously arranged to pick us up when we arrived at Thessaloniki, saving us a few euros.

Most airports also have public transportation options, though not all do. Because there are so many Greek airports, research the airport individually. For example, Crete alone has two airports with two different systems.

Before You Leave the Airport

You’ll want to have some Euros on you for your taxi or to get on a bus. You can take them out at the ATMs in the airports for the best exchange rates. Just make sure you don’t have big ATM withdrawal fees from your bank. Some banks require a travel notice, and others will still put fraud blocks on cards making purchases outside of their home country.

Tell your bank when and where you’ll be traveling to avoid this. They may still put a block on your card at some point (mine frequently does). To rectify this, you’ll need to call them or respond to an email if they send one. This is one reason it’s good to always travel with multiple cards attached to different accounts.

Note that many places in Greece take Visa and Mastercard, but you’ll still need some cash to be able to travel through Greece smoothly. It can be difficult finding places that take American Express.

Step 11: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

We put this last so it’s fresh on your mind: travel insurance is essential for Greece and travel in general! Allison and I have both been paying customers of World Nomads  for the last two years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption. Also, car rental accidents in Cyprus, that time a goat peed on Allison’s dress, many cracked phone screens, the time I was too sick to fly to Santorini, etc. You get the idea!

While Greece is perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always risk inherent in everyday travel, so it’s better to play it safe. The saying goes “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel” is true!

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here.

Pin This Guide to Be Ready for Your Next Trip to Greece

Have you been to Greece before or are you planning a trip to Greece now? Leave your best Greece travel tips and any questions below!

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

Related posts

27 comments.

Hi….Thanks for your valuable advise. I am in greece from 31.5.19 to 7.6.19 and planning to spend my days in athens,santorini and mykonos. Kindly help me in distributing the days. My flight will reach at 20:25 to the Athens airport. Will I have enough time to catch a connecting flight to Santorini at 22:35 or 23:15 ? Is it safe for a family to land in santorini so late ?

Hi Harsh! I imagine this message is too late, somehow we missed your comment, sorry! We hope you have a great trip to Greece, sorry we weren’t able to get your message in time.

Hello. This article sure helped to get a picture of Greece. I am planning to visit Greece in August, probably 6-7 days. Athens being the airport i will arrive and leave Greece. Apart from Athens, i intend to visit Mykonos and Santorini. So could you please help me on how to split the tour. Like where to start from and how many days per place, etc. Or do you think i should cut off one island and visit a destination in mainland Greece. Your input will be very helpful. Thanks

Hi Vivek, with only 6-7 days I would recommend cutting off one island and then adding a day trip to either Meteora or Delphi (we have posts on them both) or perhaps doing a day trip from Athens where you visit 3 of the nearest islands. I would say 3 days in Athens (including 1 day for a day trip) and 3 days in either Santorini and Mykonos and one day free for travel at some point would be a good way to split it. Otherwise you’ll spend all of your time in transit with such a short trip.

My wife and I are planning a trip there in the near future. It has always been a dream of ours and we thought we wouldn’t ever be able to afford it since our kids steal all our money lol. But your article and looking around has made us see that this is a strong possibility for us! How many days would you recommend staying to really see Greece?

Hi Stefan! It definitely is a possibility for you – Greece is a lot more affordable than it looks! I highly advise traveling outside of the summer period when prices are easily 3x higher. For example, Stephanie and I had a room in Rhodes for $18 USD a night – no kidding – on Rhodes in mid-April, and it was already warm enough to swim (but just barely). Santorini and Mykonos are easily 2-3x the price of other islands. I’d strongly recommend focusing on cheaper islands if budget is a concern (so basically, stay away from Santorini, Mykonos all times of year and away from Crete, Rhodes, and Corfu in the summer high season).

Greece has hundreds of islands you can visit as well as a rich and diverse mainland – you could easily spend a year traveling it and not scratch the surface. But I’d say 10 days is a minimum to see mainland Greece and some of its archaeological wonders (Meteora, Delphi) and some of its islands. 14 days would be even better.

Thanks for sharing these excellent tips. Great post. This is really going to help me with my next greece Trip.

Thanks! Enjoy!

Hello! your article is so educative. Thanks for sharing! I’m planning to visit next year for 10days with a group of friends. What tips can you give?

1. Where to go (islands, structures, tourist spots) 2. Where to stay 3. Budget friendly hotels

Hi Moyo! Check out the following posts for more info:

1. Where to go: https://sofiaadventures.com/where-to-go-in-greece-vacation-destinations/ 2. Where to stay: We are working on filling out our guides but these ones are finished — https://sofiaadventures.com/where-to-stay-in-athens-hotels-accomodation-hostels/ for Athens and https://sofiaadventures.com/where-to-stay-in-rethymnon-hotels-hostels-crete/ for Rethymnon in Crete. 3. Those posts above should have budget hotels listed.

Hope that helps!

Thank you for your valuable advice! I want to plan my next autumn trip from Hamburg to Athens, and then I plan to go to Santorini. I have read that I have to rent a car in Santorini, if I want to wander around. Is that true? Are there buses on the island that go to the best beaches and villages?

Hi Getrud! Thanks for your comment. Renting a car in Santorini will definitely make things easier. There are some buses, but in autumn, the running times may be less frequent (though they will also be less crowded). Taxis are also an option, but they are expensive. I’d rent a car for a few of the days, but not all, if you are staying for a while in Santorini.

Athens is a city of history and culture. I love greek history and their lots of monuments and architectural amazes. I wish to travel Athens soon.

Thanks for your amazing travel guide, that was informative for me.

Thank you Tiana! We’re happy you enjoyed the post!

Hi! This is great information on Greece. I hope to travel to Athens with my 20 yrs son next year. Is October a good month to travel? How is the weather in October?

I love Athens in October! I spent the entire month there in 2016. The weather is cooler, but it can still get hot. It’s not beach weather anymore, but it’s great sightseeing weather! It definitely gets colder as the month goes on.

Am planning a trip with my friends to Athens in April of 2021. We enjoy the culture and history ofGreece. Great information.Very helpful. Thanks .

You’re welcome! We will publish TONS more post about travel in Greece between now and then, so come back and check our resources down the road!

Is February 2020 a good time to visit Greece mainland and Santorini and the ship wreckage island? Will 10 days enough to cover? Any day tour agency to recommend Delphi and Meteora? Pls advise. Thank you. Jessy .

Hi Jessy – it’d be a little cold, but no reason why not! The shipwreck island is Zakynthos and it’s quite far from the mainland and Santorini. I’d suggest cutting that and focusing on mainland Greece (Delphi + Meteora via Athens) and Santorini. That’d be a lot less stressful! We have tour company suggestions for Delphi + Meteora which you can find here: https://sofiaadventures.com/visit-delphi-or-meteora-greece/ . If you need more help, we offer itinerary planning services here: https://sofiaadventures.com/bespoke-balkan-itinerary-planning/

Hi, is late March a good time to visit Santorini? Is one week too long just to stay in Santorini? Would you recommend Athens + Santorini for a week? Also is it cheaper to book return flights to Athens from my home country and get a separate domestic ticket between Santorini and Athens? What are the baggage allowances for the domestic flights within Greece? Thank you so much for your help in advance!

Late March would be lovely! I was there at end of October and it was still quite crowded, but when I talked to my friends who visited in March they said there were very few people but it was perfect. Personally, I was in Santorini for 4 days and found that to be just right. I think one week would be ideal for Santorini and Athens, as Athens has some great sights to see and 3 days is a good introduction. It’s definitely usually cheaper to book flights to Athens roundtrip and then a separate ticket for Santorini and Athens. As for baggage, it will 100% depend on the airline so we can’t advise that! Sky Express I believe has the most generous allowances and Volotea is more strict, but there are a half dozen or so airlines serving this route and I don’t know them all 🙂

Hi. V well written. It was a grt insight for me to start planning. Which is a non – touristy month

The months that are the least “tourist” with weather that’s still nice are October and April!

Hello! is the corona virus affecting Greece? I am not sure whether to book a holiday there or leave it for a few months?? Any advice?

Sorry for the delay, I was taking maternity leave. Yes, I’m sure by now you’re aware that it’s affecting all of Europe. Greece is closed through at least May. I would avoid booking a holiday until borders are reopened.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

New on Sofia Adventures:

• How to Spend a Magical One Day in Istanbul: Mini Itinerary
• 30 Insanely Delicious Greek Street Foods You Need to Try
• 13 Things That EXIT Music Festival Visitors Should Know

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• 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. 

Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Greece Itinerary: 7 Days in Greece for First Time Visitors

A popular 7 day Greece itinerary combines time in Athens, Santorini and Mykonos. Here's a local's guide to planning the perfect Greece itinerary 7 days.

7 Day Greece Itinerary

People often ask how long they should stay in Greece for. My answer is as long as you can, as Greece has a lot more to offer than you think.

I've lived here for nearly seven years, and feel I've still barely scratched the surface!

After setting up a design your own trip feature on the blog, I came to realize that a significant amount of people were requesting information for spending 7 days in Greece.

I also noticed that the most popular combination, was the Athens – Santorini – Mykonos one. We could think of this as the classic Greece itinerary for first timers.

As a result, I created this Greece in 7 days itinerary to help people plan their Greek vacations.

1 Week in Greece

If this is your first time in Greece, it makes sense to go to the most famous destinations, i.e. Athens , Santorini and Mykonos .

Keep in mind that these Greek destinations are quite popular. So, whilst you will be visiting well known and incredibly beautiful places, Santorini and Mykonos in particular offer less of the ‘authentic' Greece. 

I've tried to create this Greece 1 week itinerary to minimise your travel time, and maximise your overall experience. This Greece tour includes visits to ancient sites in Greece, beaches, and how to see the incredible Santorini sunset.

Before we get too far in though, sign up for my travel itineraries, insights and guides. Trust me, you'll appreciate the information you'll receive.

All good? Awesome.

Let's carry on and look at how should you get around Greece. The logistics of travel between Greek islands in 7 days is something worthy of deeper consideration.

Logistics and transportation for your Greece 7 days itinerary

Before you start planning your week in Greece, you should understand the logistics of travelling around Greece and the Greek islands.

Greece has several groups of islands, most of them being in the Aegean Sea. 

Mykonos and Santorini both belong to a group called the Cyclades , and they are reasonably close to each other. As they are popular destinations, they each have an airport as well as a port.

As such, whilst Greek island hopping by ferry is the ‘old way' to get around, flights are certainly an option.

How to get from Santorini to Mykonos

You can only travel between Mykonos and Santorini by ferry.

Santorini and Mykonos are connected by a number of boats, running on a daily basis. There are many types of boats, the fastest one taking just under 2 hours and the slowest one around 4 hours.

If you only have seven days in Greece, time is important, so you might prefer to choose the fast boat.  At the same time, the journey on the slower boat is generally more pleasant. Something to consider.

You can check out ferry schedules between Mykonos and Santorini and book tickets online using Ferryhopper .

How to get from Athens to Santorini and Mykonos

Athens, the capital, is connected to both Santorini and Mykonos by flights as well as several types of boats departing from Pireaus or Rafina, the two ports close to Athens.

It takes anything between 5 and 10 hours to get to Santorini on a boat, while getting to Mykonos takes anything from just over 2 hours to about 5 and a half hours.

A flight from Athens to the islands and vice-versa will take you just under an hour.

Is it best to fly or use the ferry?

With all of the above in mind, if you are trying to plan your Greece itinerary for 7 days, your best bet is to spend less time getting from A to B, and more time enjoying the different places.

If you book well in advance, you can get good deals for flights to Mykonos and Santorini – in fact, some boat tickets are a lot more expensive than flights booked in advance.

You can book ferry tickets online easily here: Ferryhopper

Want specific information on Getting from Athens to Santorini? Take a look at my travel guide to get from Athens to Santorini .

And here's how to get from Athens to Mykonos .

Arriving in Greece

Unless you are arriving on a direct flight to Santorini or Mykonos (which you can if flying from some European countries), chances are that you will be landing at Athens International Airport.

My suggestion is to find the next available flight to Mykonos or Santorini, whichever one suits best your budget and your timetable, and go to the first island straight away, leaving Athens as your last destination.

This is so that you can have some time to unwind on the islands before hitting the capital. Also, there is the rare (but still possible) scenario of getting stuck on one of the islands because of bad weather or a last-minute boat strike.

Greece Itinerary 7 Days

In short, your Greece itinerary for 7 days could look like this:

Athens > flight to Mykonos > 2 days in Mykonos > boat to Santorini > 2 days in Santorini > flight back to Athens > 3 days in Athens .

Or, it could look like this:

Athens  >  flight to Santorini  >  2 days in Santorini  > ferry to Mykonos  >  2 days in Mykonos  >  flight back to Athens  >  3 days in Athens .

If you want a more relaxed week-long vacation, you could just choose two destinations, and skip either one of the islands or Athens.

However most people seem to prefer to visit as much as they can in their Greece itinerary for 7 days. I don’t blame you!

7 Days in Greece – 2 Days in Mykonos

If I had to choose, I would marginally prefer to go to Mykonos before heading to Santorini. The reason being, that Mykonos is more geared towards beaches and nightlife, whereas Santorini has more to do in terms of day activities.

When in Mykonos, you can rent a car and go around the island, visiting the most famous beaches like Elia, Platis Gialos or Ornos for some beach time.

You don't need a rental car at all though if you want to walk around the picture-perfect old town.

When visiting Greece, you're never too far away from an ancient site, and this also applies to Mykonos! Don't forget the UNESCO World Heritage Site of  Delos which is a perfect half-day tour . I highly recommend visiting on a guided tour!

At night, there are several bars and clubs to choose from in Mykonos Town and other resort areas.

Mykonos has been a party island for many decades, so they definitely know what they are doing!

Check out this article to plan your 2 days in Mykonos – Fun things to do in Mykonos .

Looking for interesting day trips and tours? Take a look at this guide to the 10 best Mykonos tours .

How to get from Mykonos to Santorini

From Mykonos, the best way to get to Santorini is by ferry.

I've got a full guide here on how to get from Mykonos to Santorni .

A good website for checking out boat routes in Greece is www.ferryhopper.com .

Note that if you are planning your trip many months in advance, the information isn’t always updated.

Also, there are more boats during high season (June-August) than in low season, and it’s best to book your tickets early if your dates are fixed.

Note that it is actually possible to fly from Mykonos to Santorini through Athens, but the boat trip makes more sense – and is more scenic.

7 days in Greece – 2 days in Santorini

Santorini is world-famous, and for good reason.

The white-washed houses, blue-domed and stunning sunsets would be enough on their own, but there are also winery tours, boat cruises around the island, Akrotiri and a visit to the volcano and hotsprings.

The scenic backdrop makes it a popular addition to a Greece honeymoon itinerary, and the sunset at Oia is legendary.

The beaches in Santorini are not as nice as the ones in Mykonos, but you should still take time to put your feet up and get some sunshine. The black sand beach of Perissa is a good place to take a swim, and there's plenty of places to eat along it promenade. Red Beach is another Santorini attraction to make time and see.

You can start planning your 2 days in Santorini here – Santorini 2 day Itinerary .

If you wanted to stay a bit longer, I've also got a 3 Day Santorini itinerary .

How to get from Santorini to Athens

From Santorini, you can fly to Athens airport. If you are there in high season, book your tickets as early as possible, as they tend to go up in price closer to the time. Some people however prefer to take a ferry to Piraeus port in Athens.

Santorini’s airport is tiny, but it gets super crowded, so arrive with plenty of time.

For information on how to get to and from Santorini airport, take a look here – Santorini Airport Transfers .

7 days in Greece – 3 days in Athens

With 7 days in Greece, staying in Athens for 3 days might sound a lot, however the capital has plenty to offer in terms of history, archaeology, museums, walks, as well as shopping, if that’s what you are into.

However, some people might prefer to spend less time in Athens, and spend an extra night on one of the islands – it’s all up to what you are after so there is no “right” or “wrong” way of planning your 7 day itinerary in Greece.

What to see in Athens

When you are in Athens, the obvious sights to see are the Parthenon and Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and the Acropolis Museum. While these can easily be done in just one day, I definitely do not recommend it if you want to do them justice.

If you want to find out more about Greek history, I also suggest talking a guided walking tour of the Greek capital.

Other must-see highlights in the capital include the Parliament and the change of the Guards at Syntagma Square, Plaka, Roman Agora, the National Archeological Museum, the Benaki Museum, the food market, and a walk on Areopagitou Street.

If you are a sports fan, make time to see the Panathenaic Stadium. This was where the first modern Olympic games were held.

If you are lucky, you can also catch a performance in the Herodion Ancient theatre – check for tickets well in advance. There is a yearly Athens and Epidaurus festival, with live events held at this historic ancient site.

Staying an extra day in Athens also gives you the option of taking a full day tour. The most popular day trips from Athens include Delphi, Mycenae, and the Temple of Poseidon.

To learn about detailed Athens itineraries, take a look at these popular posts:

• Athens in a day
• 2 days in Athens
• Athens in 3 days
• Day trips from Athens
• Choose a hotel in Athens

Also read: Best time to visit Greece

Athens And Greek Isles Vacation Planning – Useful to know

Here's some quick links to essential travel sites that will make your Greece vacation planning easier:

Skyscanner – To start getting an idea about flights and prices

Booking – For apartments and Greece hotel choices. AirBnB typically offers poor value for a 7 day trip.

Viator – Book all your day trips such as a caldera boat tour or guided tour of the Acropolis UNESCO heritage site in advance.

Ferryscanner – When you need tickets for a ferry ride in Greece, book them online!

Rental Cars – You won't need to rent a car in Athens, but you might consider one in Mykonos and Santorini.

Free Guides to Greece

Hopefully, the above itinerary ideas should give you a good start on planning your 7 day Greece itinerary. These 10 day Greece itinerary ideas might also be of interest.

If you'd like more information and travel tips on things to see and do in Greece, sign up for my free guides.

I'll send you inside tips and useful insights into things to do in Greece, so you'll have the perfect vacation!

Trip Planning for One Week In Greece FAQ

Readers planning a vacation in Greece often ask questions similar to:

Is 7 days enough time to visit Greece?

Spending the week exploring Greece will allow travelers to spend time in both Athens and one or two Greek islands, such as Santorini or Mykonos. Alternatively, you could always spend the week exploring one place such as Crete.

What can you do in Greece for 7 days?

By spending 7 days in Greece, you can experience everything from the grandeur of Ancient Athens to the beautiful beaches of the Cyclades islands. You can put together a Greece itinerary that includes whatever interests you have for the ultimate dream trip!

How many days is enough for Greece?

Greece is such a varied country, that it really needs as much time as you can give it. The bare minimum of time to get the most out of your trip to Greece should be a week.

What famous Ancient Sites can I see in Athens?

If you are a lover of ancient Greek history, you'll want to visit historical sites in Athens such as the Acropolis and Parthenon, the Ancient Agora, and the Temple of Olympian Zeus.

What Greek islands can I see in a week?

The Cyclades are some of the most stunning islands in Greece. They are also quite close together, with ferry journeys between them being just a few hours. This means it is possible to visit 3 or 4 Greek islands in a week if you want to pack out your schedule!

Pin this 1 week Greece itinerary for later

If you are a Pinterest pinner, please add this one week in Greece pin to your boards. This way you'll be able to return to it again when you are finalizing your travel plans for your Greece vacations.

104 thoughts on “Greece Itinerary: 7 Days in Greece for First Time Visitors”

Hello Dave. I’m visiting Greece June this year and have 7 days. Would like to follow your itinerary, but would like to avoid Myokonos. Any suggestions of islands to replace Myokonos ?

A lot depends on what you are after. Assuming you want to keep Santorini, a couple of good Greek island pairings that might go well with Santorini include Milos and Folegandros .

Hi Dave I am hoping to come to Greee in June, flying to Santorini and then taking a ferry to Folegrandos. Staying a few days and the taking a ferry to Sikinos. I can find Ferries for the Santorini – Folegandros part of my planned trip but cannot see any ferries from Folegandros – Sikinos in June. Are there any Ferries that connnect the two Islands.Reading what you have said in your pages Dave i do not want to book accommodation then find i cannot get to the island etc. I have looked at Ferry scanner without any joy. Warm Regards Eddie Street

Hi Eddie, Normally Zante ferries offer 3 a week in June – Unfortunately they are the worst ferry company in Greece for putting up their timetables! I wouldn’t expect them to put anything live much until after Greek Easter – and even that might be giving them too much credit!

SeaJets normally offer a couple as well – but again this is a minor route for them, so nothing released yet.

Sadly, it’s just a matter of wait and see. It’s a quiet ferry route so one of the last to get finalised in Greece.

The good news is that accommodation in Sikinos is extremely unlikely to get booked out in June – there won’t be so many other visitors there at all, especially in the earlier parts of June.

Booking do sometimes have an option where you can reserve accommodation and have free cancellation which might be worth looking at.

A guide here to Sikinos in case you haven’t seen it yet: Sikinos Travel Guide

Dave, your website has so much useful content. Thank you! We are traveling for 7 days in April, with kids aged 10 and 13. What would you recommend?

Hi Raj, Given the time of year and the age of the kids, I’d say an Athens, Crete (Heraklion especially), and Rhodes combination would be worth looking into. If you don’t wan to travel around too much, stick to Athens and Rhodes.

Me, my wife and 3 teenage girls are planning to visit Athens/Islands in last week of October. It’s really useful information on your webpage, thanks for that. How do you think is weather gonna be? We plan to enjoy swimming and beaches, do you think it’s doable or will be too cold to do so?

Hi Jamal, It’s really the tailend of the season – if you are brave you might still get a comfortable swim, but you probably shouldn’t base the vacation around beaches alone.

Hi Dave … Girls trip to Greece in September (arrive 9/16 – depart 9/22) and I should mention we are in our early 50’s. My friend wants to take surfing lessons, I want to do some Greek wine tasting, we want to take in great water experiences (beach, sunset cruise, etc) and we’d like to experience good Greek food and culture. Looking for more authentic experience vs tourist trap. What do you suggest?

Honestly, this is a difficult one! The surfing is a problem – it’s not so big here as kitesurfing. That said, I think Chania in Crete would tick a few of your boxes, and at that time of year, the tourist crowds have thinned out considerably. There’s a couple of surf schools there from what I can see.

Hi Dave, My husband and I want to travel to Greece late September/early October this year for about 10 days. We have to fly into Athens. What island or islands would you recommend we travel to? We are looking to avoid crowds (this is priority!) and want to spend our time doing a lot of swimming, hiking, and eating (we’d love to do a wine and/or olive oil tour). We are happy to ferry or fly to another island but don’t want to spend too much time traveling. Thanks in advance! Mariana

Hi Mariana, I think Naxos would be a perfect fit. It’s a big island, so things will still be open for the locals, and at that time of year it’s quiet with tourists. There’s lots of hiking paths and great beaches. You can also take a day trip and/or spend a few days on nearby Paros island .

We are a 30 something couple who love to look at history, hike, good beaches, and eat good food. We love your itinerary and wanted to see if you could give us any advice on adding Zankynos Island where the famous shipwreck beach is to your Athens-Santorini Mykonos itinerary from above. Thanks so much.

Hi Christine,

There’s two barriers in the way of that. The first is that Zakynthos is on the ‘wrong side of Greece’. It means you’d have to add on two additional flights (not ferries) to your journey at some stage. If you only have a week, I don’t think it would be enough time. If you have longer (10 days), possible, but… The second problem is that the beach is now closed due to a landslide. So, while boat trips take you out there, you can no longer go on the beach itself. If you have extra days and want to go somewhere amazing, look into Milos !

Hi Dave, My husband and I will be celebrating our 10th year anniversary and going to Greece for the firs time. We’ll arrive to Athens September 18 close to 8pm. Leaving Athens on Sept 27 around 2pm. We’d like to visit Santorini and another island, someone recommended Crete, but I’m not sure since I hear it’s so big and we don’t have enough time to enjoy it. I don’t want to spend the whole trip driving a lot to go to places. What island do you recommend? We’d like to see nice beaches, experience good food and culture, ruins would be nice and maybe a hike, def would like to do at least a day in Athens and see the Acropolis. I considered Mykonos, but we’re in our late 30s and don’t party hardcore. Thank you for your time.

Hi Patty, Thank you for reaching out and congratulations on your upcoming 10th anniversary! Greece is a wonderful destination and I’m excited to hear that you’re planning a trip here! Based on your preferences, I would highly recommend visiting Milos instead of Crete. Milos is something of a couples island, and has the mix of what you are looking for in terms of beaches (80 of them! hire an ATV for a day or two to get to the more remote ones), hiking, some ruins, and food. You can even take a day trip to neighbouring Kimolos island if you want to fill more time up.

Hi Dave, thanks for all of the useful information. We are flying in and out of Athens with our 2 year old 9-19 October. We picked October as we don’t like hot weather (I’m not too bothered if it rain on the odd day) and we didn’t want to be in the height of tourist season. We were thinking of getting a ferry to Naxos/Paros (not to sit on a beach but to explore the island) but have been put off by reports of cancellations and choppy water. what are your thoughts? We could spend our holiday on the mainland alternatively or go to closer islands. We also want to spend 4 days or so in Athens as we have never been. thanks!

It’s true that weather can cause cancellations or delays in ferry services to the islands, but it’s actually quite rare. Unfortunately, there’s no way to tell for sure if ferries will be cancelled due to bad weather, as it can change quickly and unexpectedly. October is one of the better months for weather.

If you’re concerned about potential issues with the ferry, another option could be taking a flight to your desired destination from Athens. Both Naxos and Paros have airports. Out of the two islands, I prefer Naxos and I think it would be more suitable for young families.

We are visiting Greece in the June 2023 and only have time for Athens and one island. Of course, we would LOVE to visit Santorini but the crowds and price have us a little leery. From all of our research, we have narrowed it down to Naxos, Paros or Milos. What do you think? Are any of those a good replacement for Santorini or should we bite the bullet and book Santorini?

Hi Robin, They are all good islands in my opinion! Milos is ideal if you like wild beaches and landscapes. Best explored by ATV to get to those really out of the way beaches. Paros has gained in popularity – not quite on the level of Mykonos or Santorini but the top of division 2! I think this would be a good choice if you only have limited time. Naxos – In my opinion more authentic than Paros, but perhaps not as easy for first-timers to Greece as Paros.

I love reading your posts. I am flying to Athens late on the 8th of April and then back out in the evening of the 15th. I thought I would spend the evenings of the 8th and 9th in Athens… but then not sure where to go in order to see more of Greece. This is my first time there. Where would you go? I love culture and being outside. I don’t need fancy but I definitely want great food. Maybe some beach time?

At that time of year, Athens and Crete would be a good combination. Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and has something for everyone, from ancient ruins to stunning beaches to beautiful hiking trails. Its location means you have the best chance for beach weather in all of Greece (although April can be variable – perhaps too cold for swimming extended periods in the sea).

Spend a few days in Athens, then fly to Crete to explore the cities of Heraklion and Chania, visit the Palace of Knossos, and relax on the island’s beautiful beaches. (You’d maybe want to fly Athens to Heraklion, and then bus to Chania, and after fly Chania to Athens) Oh and the food in Crete is fantastic!

Thinking of a trip in late May 2024 (May 17-25) for our 30th anniversary. Any suggestions for our trip planning? I like the 7 day itinerary for Athens/Santorini/Mykonos although we aren’t much on late nights/night life.

Instead of Mykonos I think you would appreciate Paros more especially at that time of year (unless you want to see Delos of course).

So I would suggest something like fly directly to Santorini (2 nights), ferry to Paros (2 nights) then flight or ferry to Athens (2 nights). Depending on how your arrival and return flights pan out, Santorini would be the island to add an extra day to if you have the time.

Hello! Love your site and already combed through all the comments which are super helpful. We are flying into Santorini on 31 March and leaving from Athens on 8 April (we arrive and depart rather late/early, so let’s not count the travel days), so Santorini and Athens are pretty much set. I was wondering whether it is worth going to Mykonos as I worry that the itinerary would be a bit crammed with packing and unpacking for three different hotels. We are not into nightlife at all, we enjoy history, good food, beaches and views. Any piece of advice that you could provide?

In my opinion not worth going to Mykonos at that time as not many things will be open, and it’s too cold to enjoy the beaches. If you wanted to add on another island, Naxos is worth considering – the main town is very pretty and the island is open all year through. If you do get good weather, there’s very nice beaches there as well. Oh, and the food is great!

hi Dave, thank you for all the tips 🙂 May i please ask your take on planning a trip in September 2023 : dates 22-29. we want to cover mykonos, santorini and athens but could you please give us a direction in terms of which part should be explored first along with no. of days? thank you

It’s a nice time of year to visit! I don’t think it makes much difference which way around to do it, but I always recommend leaving sightseeing in Athens until last – 2 days for that. I’d say 2 days in each place, and an extra day for Santorini would be good.

Hi Dave, thank you for the wealth of info! Still a bit overwhelming for the first timer 🙂 We will be traveling to Greece in late April – partly for work, partly for fun. After working in Athens (Thu, Fri) and a weekend spent sightseeing (Sat, Sun), we will have 3 full days (Mon, Tue and Wed) to go somewhere, before coming back to Athens (Thu) to fly back home (Fri). What’s our best bet in late April in terms of what’s open and easy to get to and from? We love nature (beaches, sunsets, etc) and prefer it over historical sights for those 3 days (since we will cover those already in Athens). Thank you!

Hi Victoria, Keeping in mind you’ll want to be able to get there and back relatively easily, I’d suggest looking into Naxos. It’s the largest of the Cyclades islands, so there’s always places open. You can stay in the main town, and take hiking paths, buses, or rent a car to visit villages etc. Naxos has great beaches, and the iconic Portara is a lovely sunset spot. Weather late April is likely to be warm, although the sea may feel chilly to swim in for too long! (May is the earliest I swim – I’m a bit weak!!) Here’s a guide to Naxos: Naxos Travel Guide

Thank you so much, Dave! I will look into Naxos for sure. I was also looking into Santorini, given that we’re first timers and everyone seems to go there :). We were actually hoping it may be less crowded in April than in the summer months.

From what I’ve seen, an hour flight each way looked pretty easy and expeditious and many places seem open and reasonably priced. Is there any particular reason to stay away from Santorini in April? Thank you very much, Dave!

The only month I would say to avoid Santorini is August. It’s really not enjoyable at that time! April would be a nice enough month to go to Santorini – it will still have lots of visitors, but the cruise ship arrivals have not started in full at that time.

Hi Dave, Would appreciate your opinion on the below. Planning our first 10-day trip to Greece in April with family (13 and 15 years old teenagers) and looking at the following itinerary: – arrival to Athens and fly straight to Crete (Crete is a must destination) for 3 nights – transfer by ferry to Mykonos for 2 nights – transfer by ferry to Santorini for 3 nights – transfer by ferry to Athens for 2 nights Crete is a must and I feel it’s hard to skip Mykonos and Santorini. Flexible to switch order of destinations. Thanks a lot, Patrice

Hi Patrice, Assuming ferries are running on the days you want to go, transfer for Santorini first and then go to Mykonos after. When planning Crete to Santorini, you normally have to leave from Heraklion port – this may affect your Crete travel itinerary.

Additional note: Greek Easter 2023 is: Sun, Apr 16, 2023. Traveling around these dates may mean that some places are not open or have changed opening hours (like archaeological sites).

Hi Dave, Planning to arrive in Athens on a Sunday morning and leaving the following Sunday afternoon. I like your idea of then flying directly to Santorini or Mykonos however, we only want to spend 1 day in Athens so we can fit in another island. What do you recommend as a third island that would be close in proximity? How would you break down the time on each and in what order. Also, what’s best site to find the better hotels on each island? Much appreciate your response

The best site for finding hotels in Greece is: Booking For fitting another island: You could consider Naxos, and stay in the main town (where the ferry port is). Naxos is just south of Mykonos. In fact, you might come away finding you preferred Naxos to Mykonos!

Hi Dave, we are thinking of visiting Greece in the Dec holidays from 24 Dec to 31 Dec 2022. What are your thoughts and suggestions?

Hi Kristin,

A lot of places are going to be closed due to the Christmas holidays. No beaches obviously – far too cold for that. My opinion is that unless you have family ties in Greece, or specifically want to see what it is like for personal reasons, this wouldn’t be a great week to go to Greece for most people. I don’t have a winter specific article, but this one might be worth reading as some things are still relevant: Greece in January

We are planning a trip to Greece by End of November for 7 days starting from 25th November until 01st December 2022. Is that a good time to visit Greece or do we need to change our plans for later next year?

If you have the option, it would be better to change dates for months between May and October. If you can’t change months, keep in mind that it is more or less winter November/December. Highly unlikely to be snow, but expect rain and some cold days. Give Mykonos a miss – it will be virtually all closed down and like a ghost town. Santorini is just about ok at this time though.

Thank you for this guide. Family of 4 (ages 16 and 19) heading to Greece mid March 2023. Athens & Santorini are on the list. No to Mykonos based on your comments above and time of year(thx). However what do you think about Hydra? We only have 7 days. Based on your comments leaning towards Rhodes or Crete. We are big hikers. Thank you.

Hi Audra – Hydra is nice, but not really worth more than a day trip. If you could work Rhodes in to your itinerary, it would be a good match especially for that time of year. The old town is lovely to walk around (UNESCO castle area), and there’s plenty to see and do there.

Hi Dave , many thanks for itinerary , we (family of 4- kids aged 4&7) are planning our visit in February 2023 to Greece. which island and itinerary would you recommend ?.

Hi Sanin, That time of year many islands will be closed for tourism because the weather isn’t so great. With that in mind, you could consider Santorini and Rhodes I think.

Hi Dave! I and my husband are planning to travel to Greece in 2023. However we are not sure which month would be best to travel as we have had very bad experience travelling in Europe because even if we check the weather before planning our trip, it always ends of raining while we are on the trip. So could you please suggest what would be the best month to visit Greece islands like Santorini, Mykonos, Crete and Athens where we can get good sunshine with lesser crowds.

Hi Anya, Nothing is guaranteed for sure in Europe (or anywhere else lately it seems!) when it comes to weather. In my experience, the first two weeks of September are good because there’s a better chance of good weather and the school holidays in Europe are over. Another option is last two weeks in June. If you are going to Mykonos there is a different side to the weather you should know about – the Meltemi Winds!!

Hi Dave, I’m trying to get my husband on board to do a trip to Greece in November 2022 – probably the end of Nov. My husband isn’t too interested in Greece because he gets very sea sick and has no interest to go on a Ferry. However, since we are (aging*) avid cyclists, I think I could persuade him with some biking. So, I’m wondering if you know of good bicycle tour companies on any of the Islands – where weather would be reasonable that time of year. We aren’t fussy, and in addition to being cyclists — we love exploring cities — so we could easily spend 8-10 just in Athens. But, since we will be in Greece, I’d like to see at least one additional island, even if we fly there. *I say “aging” because I don’t really want to hassle with bringing my own bike anymore — I’d like freedom to do some traditional touring and some cycling — cuz everything is better on a bike.

Hi Sally, Tricky one here! The end of November the islands will be all but closed down. However, you could look into Kos – not only is it possibly warmer and with slightly better weather, but cycling is very common there (at least when we visited in June this year!). Most hotels in and around Kos town have bicycles to use or hire, and there are many bicycle rental agencies. Even better – You could fly to Kos from Athens so no ferry needed. For outdoor companies, Trekking Hellas are the people to try ( https://trekking.gr/ ). Could be worth reaching out to see what they provide at that time of year!

I am a first-generation Greek-American – parents from Tripoli, Peloponnisos. Your web site is an unbelievable source of valuable information that most Greeks don’t even know about! I’m planning to be in Greece in September, and your articles are helping me plan my intinerary. I don’t know how you have the time to research and document so many facts, and I envy the fact that you get to live in Greece! I hope to retire there someday.

I’m assuming you’re not Greek, but we will anoint and honor you as an “honorary Greek”!

Efharisto poly,

Hi Dave – Just signed up – Enjoy reading your Blogs – Question for you Sir!! Travelling as a couple, we do enjoy beach clubs night life.. Based on your expertise, what would you recommend? Fly out of Canada, travelling to Greece for the first time.. Looking for stunning beach front scene, day clubs, and then transition back into Athens to Enjoy the city in Sept 2022 – Your input is appreciated!

Hi Taha, I think given your criteria Mykonos is going to tick all your boxes – but be warned it will not be cheap!! Another island to consider would be Ios – perhaps you even have time to do both during your vacation. If you do, let me know which one your preferred and why!

Hello – we are looking to do Athens and few islands March4-12 2023 arriving from states. The ferryhopper is not updated with 2023 dates – what could be possible itinerary considering low season and weather

Hi – 2023 Ferry itineraries for march may not go live until just after Christmas. You should know though that these dates are very much off-season. It would not be worth going to Mykonos at this time of year (if that was your intention). Santorini would be ok, but cold! Athens would be fine – it’s always got things to do! The two islands I could recommend due to weather etc (in addition to Santorini if that’s on your list) would be Crete and Rhodes

We are flying into Athens on September 18th. Then flying to Santorini for three nights. We want to hit two more islands for 2 nights each on way back to Athens. I guess ferry to an island stay 2 nights, ferry to another and stay two nights. Then need early out of the last island to get to Athens, our flight is 2pm that last day. Any recommendations on what 2 islands we can hit?? Love your info so helpful

Hi John, I think Folegandros would be a nice island to visit directly after Santorini. From there, I guess you would want an island with an airport to get you back to Athens? Try Milos, Paros or Naxos. Your last island might be determined by ferry connections and flight availability though.

I like this itinerary. How would I add Crete? I have more than a week.

I just keep reading your advice! Terrific. I want to add Corfu and Crete to your itinerary also. No particular time of year. We have the time to spend. Wouldn’t mind getting to Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia or across to Italian coast for Venice, and San Marino. Of course, anywhere else I need to add – 3 weeks or less – not budget not luxury. I welcome all suggestions.

Hi Lisa, Crete can be a good addition, so it would look like Athens – Mykonos – Santorini – Crete. If you really wanted to go to Corfu after, you would need to fly Crete to Athens and then Athens to Corfu. Out of Dubrovnik and Split I far prefer Split – but I guess you can’t go to Croatia without going to Dubrovnik! If you do go to Corfu, you might consider Albania. It’s a fascinating country, and you’ll probably find some day trip options from Corfu.

Hi – you could make the order Athens – Mykonos – Santorini – Crete. You could also fly out of Crete back to your home country if there are good connections.

Hi! We are a couple, planning to visit Greece towards the end of this month for 7-8 days. Shall we include Zakynthos island as well? Is it worth spending 2 nights for it?

Hi – Not really worth adding to this itinerary as the travel time would be a bit of a waste. I’d consider extending Santorini or Athens.

Hi Dave, We are a couple and planning to visit Greece mid October. We will have 8 Days (7 Nights) in Greece and have some doubts. Will. the weather in Greece be ok in October? Is it possible to visit to Athens, Mykonos and Santorini without renting a car? Can we include Naxos or Paros in the itinerary?

Hi, I think adding Naxos and Paros will be too much for your time. You don’t need a car in any of the places you plan to visit, especially Athens. If you want to explore more of Santorini at your own convenience, then a car rental for a day might be better for you. For the weather – The earlier in October the better. Generally, I’ve experienced very nice weather in Greece in October, however as we all know, weather patterns are not something we can rely on nowadays!

Hi Dave. Great info! Considering doing this itinerary for our Spring Break…first week of April 2023. Would you recommend Mykonos during that time of year? Or too cold, not enough open? If so, what island would you substitute? Thanks!

Hi, Mykonos is unlikely to be more than partially open in early April. Probably too cold to swim, and the ‘point’ of going there for many (beaches, party scene etc) not really there at that time. Instead of Mykonos, you could try Paros, Naxos or even Crete. These islands will have more going on at that time of year.

Dave, thanks for the great ideas and itinerary for 7 days in Greece. It is very helpful. We are planning to visit from roughly December 16 – December 28th and also plan to spend 5 – 6 days in Greece and 5-7 days in Italy. Traveling will be my wife and I and also two boys that are 25 and 28. We are interested in Athens but more interested in Santorini and Mykonos so we will probably only spend 1-2 days in Athens. We like old towns, hiking, beaches and history. Any other suggestions would be appreciated. Also any lodging where we could get two rooms in a rather nice hotel or home would be greatly appreciated.

December is definitely the off-season. It’s winter in Greece, cold, and sometimes rainy. Daylight hours are shorter as well. I don’t think there is any value in going to Mykonos in December – too cold for the beaches, many places closed, not really any bars or nightclubs open – in short whatever pictures you have in mind of Mykonos won’t really apply in December.

Santorini is a little better in December – some places are open (but many closed down for the season). You can still enjoy the views, but it’s still not the same as the better months of June or September.

In short – December is not a great time to visit Greece for the island destinations you have in mind. Better you know now before you book anything!

Hi Dave! Thank you for the comprehensive 7 day itinerary and tips on internal traveling in Greece. If we have 12-14 days in Greece (family of 3, including a well behaved 8 year old), where all would you recommend we visit? We plan on a visit in June. Are the hotels etc pretty safe during the pandemic? It is our first visit, and probably our only visit to Greece. Thanks for your help!

Hi Arya, A lot depends on what you would like to see and do as a family. What type of vacation you are after. I consider Crete and Naxos to be the two best family friendly destinations in Greece, so perhaps if you are set on Santorini and Mykonos, you could include Crete or Naxos as well? My suggestion is to think about how you would like to actually get around – if you are comfortable hiring a car etc which would be the best way to see Naxos and Crete. Greece is well set up for protocols (perhaps a little too well – if you are coming from the States or the UK, you will be surprised at the mask wearing and current measures for sure!).

Thank you so much for your 7 day itinerary to Athens-Mykonos-Santorini. Most likely, my husband and I will follow it during our trip for a wedding in Corfu on September 2022. What would be your suggestion on how to add the Corfu stop to your 7 day Athens-Mykonos-Santorini? Should we leave that for the end of the trip or start with Corfu and then your itinerary? We fly out of Michigan….

Hi Grace, You’ve got a couple of options. Ryanair seem to fly from Corfu to Santorini on Tuesdays and Saturdays. If that works with your times, one option could be Corfu – Santorini – Mykonos – Athens.

If the flights don’t line up for you, I would still go to the wedding first, but make the schedule more like – Corfu – Athens – (flight straight out to Santorini) – Mykonos – Athens (sightseeing in Athens for X days).

If you want to include Corfu with the destinations of Athens – Mykonos – Santorini, you’ll almost certainly need to transit through Athens airport once or twice whatever you do.

Final note – Ryanair are notorious for extra baggage fees and non refundability. It’s a budget airline. If you do choose to use them, make sure you have all your baggage allowed for to avoid extra charges at the gate!!

Hi Dave, Thank you for your great itinerary. We are going to Greece for the first time (family of five, kids aged 18, 15 and 10). We are staying for 7 nights. We were planning 3 nights in Athens and 4 nights on the Cyclades (Santorini and Mykonos). However, accommodation for 5 people in Mykonos seems to be very expensive. Can you think of an alternative island please? Thank you, Mariana

Hi Mariana, Yes Mykonos can be very expensive – and it’s not necessarily the best island for kids in your age range. Perhaps a better choice would be Naxos. Great beaches, amazing food, ancient sites if you want to go to them. I’ve a guide here: Where to stay in Naxos I normally recommend first timers to the island to stay in the Chora (which is where the ferry arrives). However, if you want better beach access, consider Agios Prokopios – Agia Anna

Thank You for the insight to travel in Greece, very appreciated.

We are planning a honeymoon Vacation in 1st week of Feb 2022 in Greece and What to cover Athens and Santorini for sure, what other island we can cover for a 7-8days of total stay in Greece.

And what will be the approx. budget for a nice stay for us?

Hi Ami, At that time of year, I suggest you other island should be Crete. You can get to Crete from Santorini by both ferry and planes. Crete has a lot to offer, and for your time frame, consider locating yourself in Heraklion (which is where flights should land). You’d get to see Knossos, local markets and a few other things. A good place to take a food tour! Keep in mind February weather can be variable. As for cost – It really depends what sort of travelers you are. February will have more budget friendly accommodation though!

Whats a good 7 day itinerary for honeymooners that are visiting for the first time?

Hi Christina, I’d suggest swapping out Mykonos for the Greek island of Milos. If you want luxury, take a look at Elounda in the island of Crete.

Hi Dave! We were hoping for some insight as we are trying to plan a vacation to Greece. Our interests are definitely Athens, hoping for a couple nice beach days but not sure which island is best for the that. We love Winery’s as well! Any feedback would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

Hi Stephanie, Most islands will do good beaches and wineries, but in particular, I recommend Kefalonia. I actually worked in a winery there many, many years ago! If you have either read or watched Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, Kefalonia is the island that it is set on. Hope you enjoy your time in Greece!

Hi Dave, I think your 7 day trip is amazing! We are travelling in june( first week) with our family celebrating our 40th year marriage. We have to end our trip in athens, my son is going to a wedding there. We want to visit also Crete. What itinerary would you recommend? Any help will be appreciated

Hi Maria, There’s a lot of combinations you can make, but in your case the Santorini – Crete – Athens combo would work quite well I think. (Assuming you haven’t been to Santorini before). If you have been to Santorini, you could try Naxos instead. So if possible, you could land in Athens, get on a flight to Santorini, spend 2 or 3 nights there, fly to Crete, 2 or 3 nights there, and then finish in Athens. If it looks like cramming too much in, you could skip Santorini and concentrate on Crete. There’s plenty to do there, with a lot of variety! Some blog post suggestions for further ideas: 2 Weeks in Greece Itinerary: Athens – Santorini – Crete – Rhodes Crete Travel Guide Greek island hopping guides

Thinking of doing a 7 day trip to Greece! Not sure what to visit! It will be myself, my 17 yr old daughter, and 21 year old son. Don’t really care about party scene. Would like to see some history, beaches, maybe some countryside or hiking! Any suggestions?

Hi Steve, With a 7 day trip in mind, and with your hiking and beaches in mind, might I suggest the islands of Andros and Tinos? They are quite close to Athens (just a couple of hours away), are less touristy, but equally as stunning as more well known ones. In addition, both islands have some lovely hiking paths, from were you can walk up to and through amazing villages. They also have some incredible beaches. If you think to only do one, then it could be Tinos. A suggested itinerary would be Athens – Andros – Tinos – Athens. Check out here for more details. Outdoors activities in Andros and Tinos Andros island travel guide Tinos island travel guide

I really enjoyed reading your itinerary and found it very helpful. My mom (68) and I will be visiting early May. After reading your itinerary I’m contemplating whether we should visit Mykonos. What is your thought? Is there a recommended area to stay in if we do? Thanks for your input!

Hi Kimberly, Hope you are enjoying the Christmas break! It’s a difficult one to answer, and really comes down to why you want to visit Mykonos. It’s most well known for it’s party scene and cosmopolitan, upscale, maybe slightly pretentious edge – all accompanied by a price tag of course! For early May, you could pretty much stay anywhere you want as it’s not high season. Perhaps though, Naxos might be a better match.

Hi Dave, we are 2 couples in mid 60’s planning a trip to Greece November 1 -15 -2020,are plan is to see Athens 3 days then rent a car and visit Nafplio,Mystros,Olympia,Delphi and Meteora all for one overnight.We will drive back to Athens and Take a flight to Santorini and spend 1 week there renting a car for a few days then fly back to Athens and spend 1 more night before our flight to the US. Does this sound like a doable itinerary? Is 1 week to much for Santorini? I love your site!! Thanks,Denis

Hi Denis, Glad you’ve found the site useful! The itinerary is doable, although perhaps a little rushed in week one with one night in each place. I also think 7 nights in Santorini is a little too much. Based on a 3 or even 4 night stay in Santorini maximum, I’d be tempted to add in Mycenae and/or Epidaurus to your first week (possible by including a 2 night stay in Nafplion), and extending your stay in Meteora to two nights as well. You’d also have time on the drive from Mystras to Olympia to see the impressive Ventian castles of Koroni and Methoni. Bottom line: 7 days is too much in Santorini unless you have a specific reason to stay that long.

Hello! We are going to be in Greece aug 7-15th . 2020 and have friends celebrating on Crete on the 10th or 11th by Kalathas beach for a renewal of vows and basing their travel that week around that location. If we fly into Athens on the 7th or 8th and want to do Athens and then Crete to be with them and then what would you suggest. We have two boys 10 and 13 yo. Can we sign up for travel recs and places to stay or pay a fee for intinerary and places to stay. I love your 7 day travel guide and other ideas and after trying to figure this out I can’t seem to find the perfect itinerary or places to stay. I was on Crete in 1995 and solo for three weeks but want to show my boys the contract as able with such a short time.

Hi Kimberly, It sounds like a great vacation planned, and I’m sure the kids will love Greece! There should be a signup box on the main article, so by all means sign up and you’ll receive a lot (potentially overwhelming!!) amount of travel info! For an Athens itinerary, can I suggest you take a look here – 2 days in Athens . I used this with my own nephew and niece who were similar ages when they visited. It’s easy to follow, gentle pace, but you’ll see the highlights of the city all the same. I’ve also a guide on where to stay in Athens . You’re better off staying in the historic center if possible as it will reduce travel time for sightseeing. Once in Crete, if you are up for hiring a car, I’d suggest taking a road trip around the island. It’s perfect for doing just that! You can get some ideas here – Road trip in Crete . Keep in mind you are traveling peak season – there will be LOTS of people around!! Enjoy your time in Greece 🙂

Good to know on Santorini weather, that’s a plus. Any other island you can suggest if we exclude mykonos. Our plan for the trip where we can do some sightseeing and relax.

If you’re happy to hire a car and do a little driving, Tinos is a lovely island. Lots of quaint villages. A guide here: Tinos in Greece .

Hi ! Such a lovely Itinerary.. for summer or during good weather let’s say ! However, My husband and I are planning to go to Greece for the first time for 5 days ( till 4th December,2019 ) which is going to be cold, we know .. but is it recommended to visit during this time ( It’s the only time we would be able to go ) , will it be a good destination during this time or shall we pick a more “common” winter European city/ destination ? and If it’s still a good choice , what would you recommend for this kind of weather?

Hi Linda, I hope you are having a great week so far! In all honesty, there would be no point in going to Mykonos in December. You could still visit Athens and Santorini though (and there’s also plenty of things to do on the Greek mainland). Keep in mind that archaeological sites do have shorter opening hours, with many closing at 15.30 My advice, would be that if this is the only time you could ever visit Greece in your life, then definitely visit. If you are able to visit in the future, opt for a June/July or September visit instead.

Hi Dave, we are family of 3 adults arriving Athens on 29 Sep. First trip to Greece. Free & easy. We got about 10-11 days to spare, departing from Athens to home.

Would love to do Crete besides adopting your 7 day itinerary. Which route would you recommend: Athens to Crete first or to Mykonos >Santorini> Crete> Athens. Apology if this have been answered earlier . Thanks for sharing your info and tips!

Hi, I don’t think it matters much the order, but if you wanted to take ferries, and then fly back on the last leg, then Mykonos >Santorini> Crete> Athens might make more sense. Important note: Ferry availability and times may change going into October. Check what routes are available on Ferryhopper . (There’s an English mode to the site)

I love your 7-day itinerary, but would it work for a trip in early March? I’m wondering about the weather on in the islands that time of the year. I’ve also heard the ferry transportation options may be limited. Any insight would be appreciated!

Hi Kay, I feel early March would be a little too early to get the most out of Mykonos. It would be a great time to visit Santorini though (start of season, and fewer people), and anytime of year is good to visit Athens! Although I normally recommend people to stay much longer in Crete (which is a fantastic island), if you do want to travel in March, you might consider swapping Mykonos out for Crete. The other option, might be instead to choose Santorini, Athens, and then mainland Greece. Places like Meteora and Delphi won’t give you that island feeling, but they really are amazing! In terms of transport, all those islands are well connected throughout the year, although you may find that the timetables for Spring next year have not been set. Keep an on on Ferryhopper for your options. Also, you can fly between these places from Athens, which may not be as expensive as you think.

I’m off to Santorini at the end of August (v good deal on flights). I have seen your 7 day itinerary and looks fab. However l’m in a bit of a dilemma as l fly into Santorini and fly out of Santorini, but want to do Mykonos and Athens. How do you advise l plan my time and maximise the time l have there HELP?

Hi, If you have a direct flight to Santorini, and assuming you have just 7 days or there abouts, I would suggest skipping Athens and seeing it next time. For options on getting between Santorini and Mykonos, you’ll need to take the ferry. Check out ferry routes with Ferryhopper (by far the easiest way to book your ferry tickets and see available routes). You could also visit some of the other nearby islands when in Mykonos on day trips. If you have longer than 7 days, look at these options on how to get from Santorini to Athens .

Landing in Crete Heraklion from venice late 11:30 PM but we have a hotel in Chania (Lefka Ori hotel). Busses seem to end at 12 midnight and cab for 4 of us with 4 carry on bags is 165 euros any ideas on a less expensive rid to our hotel. Here for 2 days then to Santorini (2 days) then to Mykanos (maybe, 2 days) then to Athens 2 days then home. any ideas on how to get to these places efficiently and not to expensive??? 2 adults and 2 18 yr olds

any help greatly appreciated for us last minute travelers (July 22 – July 30)

Hi Linda, I hope you are having a good day – holiday transportation aside! I’ve had a look, and actually I think at 165 euro you got a very good price on the cab! (The reason it is expensive, is that Chania is 2 or even 2.5 hours drive from Heraklion, and there are surcharges for driving after midnight). In terms of buses – I actually think they may stop at 21.00 (unless it was a private transfer bus). SO, I think these are the options you have: 1. Hire a car at Heraklion airport and drive to Chania – It would be cheaper, and you’d get the use of the car throughout your stay. 2. Cancel the hotel for the first night in Chania and stay in Heraklion. This also gives you the benefit of seeing a little of Heraklion in the morning (castle, port), as well as the archaeological site of Knossos. 3. If you can’t cancel, do the math on very cheap rooms in Heraklion + bus fare to Chania, and see if it’s cheaper than the cab. I had a look on Booking , and there are cheap rooms available. In terms of getting to the other islands, you’ve chosen the most expensive islands in Mykonos and Santorini at the most expensive time of year unfortunately. So, any cheap flights most likely have gone a long time ago. My suggestions are to look on Ferryhopper for ferry crossings. Also, I would suggest that no matter where you end up last, to arrange flights back to Athens rather than a ferry – just in case of ferry delays or strikes. Better to be safe than sorry! If this all sounds too much, also know that Crete is an island you could easily spend a week, or even a month on and not scratch the surface. So if moving around so frequently sounds too much, you could always plan a road trip in Crete instead. Further reading that may be useful: How to get from Crete to Santorini How to get from Mykonos to Santorini – 2019 Travel Guide How to get from Athens to Mykonos

We (group of 5) are planning our first Greece trip in December. Would you have a different recommendation of the 7 days itinerary for winter? We have a little more time though, about 9-10 days.

Hi, If you are travelling in December, I wouldn’t recommend you do an island hopping trip such as this one, as the weather won’t be good enough. Instead perhaps a mainland Greece trip might be better. I’ve got an article which lists 10 different 10 day itineraries – maybe something in there will be useful: 10 days in Greece

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The Perfect 7 to 10 Days in the Greek Islands Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Lizzie Fitzgerald

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect 7 to 10 days in the Greek islands itinerary is often top of the list for visitors to Southern Europe. Year after year, Greece tops the list of best holiday destinations in Europe. Could it be the friendly locals, the amazing cuisine, or the gorgeous islands that bring visitors back?

Of course, it’s all of the above, but Greece has so much to offer to a first-timer that it can often be confusing knowing where to start. Don’t worry we’ve got you covered with this Greek island hopping route showcasing the most iconic destinations in Greece.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the Greek Islands?

With 227 inhabited Greek islands to explore, you could spend a lifetime exploring golden beaches and white-washed towns.

There are six major groups of islands in Greece, and most travellers choosing a first-time Greek islands itinerary will opt for the famous Cyclades.

Of course, the delightful Dodecanese, the iconic Ionian (like Kefalonia and Corfu ) and the sleepy Saronic islands are all worth their own trips. But ferries often link islands in the same group, so sticking to one chain will be easier and will allow you to effortlessly hop from island to island.

In my experience, 7 days in the Greek islands will serve as a snapshot into this amazing corner of the world.

But if time allows it, you should try and spend at least 10 days in the Greek islands – the sleepy villages, warm evenings and views from the ferries are intoxicating and addictive!

Getting To & Around the Greek Islands

Most visitors to Greece will arrive at Athens International Airport, the largest in the country. Get your bearings in the capital then head to the port of Piraeus, then onto the islands. Santorini and Mykonos airports also serve European arrivals in the busy summer months.

The obvious and the most iconic and idyllic way to make your way around on your island hopping route is using Greece’s extensive ferry network.

Ferries run frequently, and price affects quality and journey time. Slow boats are cheaper, but SLOW – whilst fast boats are more expensive and quicker. But note due to bad weather, fast boats generally only run during the high season.

You should book any peak-season ferries well ahead of time, tickets for fast boats can sell out well in advance. You can book ferries online here.

On the islands, public transport in peak season is quite efficient, so unless you want to get off the beaten track, you shouldn’t need your own transport. If you do decide to rent a car, you can browse options here.

7 to 10-Day Greek Islands Itinerary

So, pack your flip flops, get your best Instagram hat, and make sure your camera is charged as we’re about to embark on the ultimate Greek island hopping itinerary!

If you only have 7 days, it’s perfect for a classic Athens-Santorini-Mykonos itinerary (with a stop on another island as well). If you have 10 days, you will have more time to visit even more islands.

Day 1 – Athens

Athens, the vibrant, unorthodox, love-it-or-hate-it capital is where most Greek adventures start.

The first stop during your day in Athens is the Acropolis and exploring the sights located in the Plaka neighbourhood. Visible from across the city, with temples dating back nearly 2,400 years, the jewel in the crown is the Parthenon, the temple dedicated to the city’s namesake Athena.

Heading downhill from the Acropolis, investigate the Ancient Agora, littered with statues and ruins including the incredible temple of Hephaestus.

Exploring atmospheric Monastiraki Square will lead you down alleys to shops filled with everything as well as delightful tavernas. There are plenty of accommodation options in this area.

A must-see is the changing of the guard at the parliament. Every hour the elaborately dressed presidential guard, the Evzones, march in front of the tomb of the unknown soldier.

And if you want to explore more of the delicious Greek cuisine in Athens, then consider heading out on a street food tour of the capital.

For dinner, explore the hip Athens neighbourhood of Psiri, stopping at the delicious Lithos Tavern, before drinks at 360 Cocktail bar, with illuminated views of the Acropolis.

If you have more time in Athens, you can also opt for a day trip to Delphi or Meteora before you take the ferry to the Greek islands.

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – If you’re visiting Athens on a mid-range budget then this hotel is a good option. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms on offer, a great location for seeing the highlights of the city and a terrace with beautiful panoramic views.

The Modernist Athens – Luxury travellers will love this 4-star hotel in Athens. Located in the perfect spot for exploring the highlights of the Greek capital, they have a number of bright and modern rooms available and plenty of other amenities to enjoy.

101 Adrianou Apartments – This aparthotel gives you the convenience of having your own flat while staying in Athens with the amenities of a hotel. They have a range of fully furnished apartments on offer and a location perfect for exploring the Greek capital.

City Circus Athens – This hostel is a great option for those pinching pennies in Athens (or who simply want a social atmosphere). They have both private rooms and dorms available, a great location and they organise social events for guests, as well.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Athens hotels!

Day 2 – Mykonos

Start early and head to the port of Piraeus, before boarding a high-speed ferry destined for the Island of the Winds, Mykonos .

Your first stop should be to explore the beautiful main town of Chora. A maze of winding alleyways filled with shops, churches and whitewashed houses with painted shutters.

Explore the waterfront, stopping to admire the Paraportiani church, which is five separate chapels that are all built together. Look out for the island’s mascot Petros the Pelican, who can often be found taking an afternoon walk in this area.

Little Venice is full of restaurants and cocktail bars with excellent views over the water. Mykonos is a foodie heaven, but book ahead in the summer months – try M-Eating or Eva’s Garden for delicious cuisine.

There are a myriad of cute pensions and hotels in Chora, ideal for couples. If you want something more luxurious head to Elia Beach, or if you like to party stay at Paradise Beach. There are countless beautiful beaches on Mykonos so you can’t really go wrong.

Where to Stay in Mykonos

Panormos Village – This lovely hotel located on the North Coast of Mykonos is a great option for those looking for a mid-range option on the island. They have a range of wonderful rooms on offer, have breakfast included each morning and there is even a swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

ELA Boutique Hotel & Spa – This boutique hotel located close to Elia Beach is fantastic for those looking for a great luxe option in Mykonos where cost isn’t a factor. They have a number of rooms available, a great terrace and breakfast served each morning.

Alissachni Mykonos – Located in the village of Psarou, this luxe hotel is perfect for those after the high life in Mykonos. There are a range of suites available, some rooms include private pools and/or hot tubs and there is breakfast available daily.

MyCocoon Hostel – Solo and budget travellers will love this hostel in Mykonos. Offering both dorms and private rooms, they also have a swimming pool and an on-site bar — perfect for making friends while island hopping in Greece!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Mykonos!

Day 3 – Mykonos

With a full day to explore, start early to discover all that Mykonos has to offer!

If history is your thing, take a guided tour of Delos. A 30-minute boat ride from Mykonos, this island is an archaeological site and is the birthplace of gods Apollo and Artemis.

A package including return boat trip, guide and ticket is well worth the cost and will take up about four hours of your day. You can  book the guided morning tour here .

If beaches are more your thing, don’t worry because Mykonos has you covered there too! The southern coast of the island has beaches for every taste – from family-friendly Ornos, to raucous Paradise Beach, and LGBTQ-friendly Super Paradise. The beaches can all be explored via the Mykonos water taxi.

Day 4 – Paros

Today we’ll be taking our foot off the gas a little and taking a morning ferry across to idyllic Paros.

You’ll arrive in Parikia, the biggest town on the island of Paros , and the most central location to stay. The town is a jumble of gorgeous alleys filled with bougainvillaea, delightful cafes to grab a frappe and seafront tavernas and bars.

Be sure to check out the mighty Ekatontapiliani – the Church of 100 Doors. This church complex is steeped in legend and rumour has it there are 99 visible doors, and one hidden door. When the hidden door is found, Constantinople will return to Greece!

Check in and then jump on the public bus over to Santa Maria Beach. This organised beach has great restaurants, watersports, excellent tunes and drinks flowing throughout the day.

Where to Say in Paros

Hotel Dina – Located in the heart of Parikia, this mid-range hotel has the perfect location for exploring all Paros has to offer. They also have a myriad of clean and comfortable rooms available and there is even free parking available if you have a car.

Paros Palace – If you’re looking for a luxury option in Paros then this plush hotel in Parikia village is an excellent choice. They have many beautiful rooms on offer and countless amenities to ensure your stay is a memorable one.

Nautilus Apartments-Suites – Those after their own space in Paros will love this aparthotel on the island. There are a number of fully-furnished flats on offer that can suit all kinds of group sizes and they have a great location for exploring the island.

Paros Backpackers – This hostel is a great option for those looking for to visit Greece on a budget. They have a range of both dorm beds and private rooms available, a swimming pool and excellent common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Paros hotels!

Day 5 – Paros

Paros has some of the clearest water in Greece, and getting out to explore the many coves & beaches is a must. Jump on an organised boat tour and head out for a day on the waves – many of the tours include a BBQ lunch onboard.

Did you know that Paros is one of Europe’s best windsurfing destinations? The east coast of the island can be very windy and is a great spot to try this fun sport.

If you fancy exploring on foot, get the small ferry over to Antiparos to check out the island’s many cave systems. More hiking opportunities can be found in the interior of Paros around the hilltop village of Lefkes, checking out Byzantine ruins, and ancient stone paths.

For dinner, you must head to the tiny fishing village of Naoussa where you can get some delicious traditional Greek cuisine. Nestled in a cove protected by a Venetian fort, you’ll find seafood tavernas all along the waterfront serving beautiful food well into the night.

Day 6 – Santorini

Heading south, today we will head off to maybe the most iconic Greek island and hop on a ferry to Santorini .

Actually an archipelago of five islands, Santorini was shaped when the original volcanic island of Strogili erupted over 3,500 years ago, leaving us with a series of smaller islands. Nearly all visitors will stay on the main island of Thera – the only other inhabited option being the laidback Thirassia.

Most travellers will stay in the capital of Fira, on the southern black sand beaches of Perissa or Kamari, or in the expensive but enchanting cave houses of the village of Oia.

Both Fira and Oia are on the caldera, the cliffs that are left from the old eruption, and you can find restaurants and cafes in both towns to gaze out at the incredible views at sunset.

Where to Stay in Santorini

Kalimera Hotel – Mid-range travellers will love this family-run hotel in Santorini. Situated close to a number of sandy beaches, they have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, there’s a swimming pool and breakfast is included daily.

Seaside Breeze – This luxury hotel is a great choice for those looking for something fancy on their Greek island hopping route. They have both standard rooms and larger suites available – all with their own balcony. There is also a terrace, pool and breakfast daily for guests to enjoy.

Remezzo Villas – If you’re looking for a luxury option during your time in Santorini, then these villas are an excellent option. There are a range of suites to choose from along with a daily breakfast, swimming pool and outdoor terrace.

Caveland Hostel – Situated in a small village on the island, this hostel is perfect for those visiting Santorini on a budget. They offer both dorms and private rooms and there is even a swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Santorini!

Day 7 – Santorini

Santorini has so much to explore, and if this is the final day of your 7-day Greek islands itinerary it will certainly be one to remember!

Wherever you are on the caldera, your eyes are often drawn towards the two imposing volcanoes jutting from the water. If you’re feeling active you can join a great day tour that will take you on a hike up the active Nea Kameni, and then swimming in the thermal mud springs at Palea Kameni.

Afterwards, you can take the cable car from the old port up to Fira for one last shopping trip in town to grab some unique souvenirs.

If you are heading back to Athens to end your trip, you grab a quick one-hour flight that will take you straight to Athens International Airport, thus maximising your last day in Santorini!

Day 8 – Ios

If you’re lucky enough to be continuing on for a 10 days in Greece itinerary beyond the Athens-Mykonos-Santorini route, then today it’s only a short 40-minute ferry ride to the nearby island of Ios.

A relatively unknown option compared to the likes of Mykonos and Santorini, Ios is famous in its own right. The first tourists visited in the 1960s and were hippies who camped on the beaches, stayed with locals and made makeshift homes in caves.

Now it is famous for its excellent restaurants, eclectic nightlife scene and its mix of raucous and relatively untouched beaches.

There are plenty of great value pensions in Chora, the main town, but if you want to be relaxing on the sand, then you should stay at Mylopotas Beach.

Mylopotas is a beautiful white sand beach, where you can get involved in beach volleyball, watersports, or just lounge on a hammock, iced coffee in hand and watch the world go by. You’re on holiday after all!

Where to Stay in Ios

Homer’s Inn Hotel – This cosy inn in central Ios is the perfect place for mid-range visitors to this island. They have a number of lovely rooms on offer and a great location for exploring all Ios has to offer.

Levantes Ios Boutique Hotel – Those looking for luxury will love this plush hotel. They have a number of wonderful rooms to choose from, a gorgeous pool for guests to enjoy and a location perfect for exploring the incredible island of Ios.

Hide Out Suites – These suites are perfect for those who’d like their own space on Ios. They have a range of different fully-furnished properties on offer along with an excellent location for exploring the island. There are also plenty of plush amenities for guests to enjoy.

Francesco’s – If you’re island hopping in Greece on a budget, then this hostel is a great option. They offer both dorms and private rooms, they have great common areas and a fantastic location on the island.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Ios hotels!

Day 9 – Ios

Today, why not head to the interior of the island, where you can find the tomb of Homer, the poet responsible for the Iliad and the Odyssey .

Heading further afield you can find the super sleepy beaches of Magganari and Psathi where you can feel like you’re the only person on the whole of the Greek islands.

But as you are in Ios, it would be rude not to sample the nightlife. Start with some drinks at dinner, and then head into the main town around midnight – there are plenty of tiny bars dotted around the old town.

All have their own unique twist, be it Slammer, where they slam you on the head whilst wearing a crash helmet, Shush the silent disco or Coo which plays funky R&B well into the wee hours.

Day 10 – Ferry to Athens

For the final day grab a tasty brunch at Hellenic Social in the old town and then head down to the port.

Jump aboard the ferry, it’ll take around four hours on the fast boat back to Athens. Stay in Monastiraki again, and if you aren’t up for exploring too far, grab some last-minute souvenirs on Adrianou street, featuring everything from olivewood backgammon sets to beautiful artisan jewellery. 

For a relaxed experience, head to Mnisikleous street, known as the steps, where cafes and eateries have cushions and chairs right out on the street steps – it is very relaxed and bohemian.

Finish your evening with drinks at The Clumsies, one of the best cocktail bars in all of Europe – what a way to wrap up your 10-day Greek island hopping itinerary!

Have More Time?

If you are lucky enough to have more time to spend in Greece, why not extend your trip to include a visit to Greece’s largest island Crete ? This massive island is perfect for road-tripping and is dripping in culture, history and amazing beaches. Take a few days to explore Chania and Heraklion and also make sure to venture beyond these two cities.

Alternatively, you could simply visit a few more islands in the Cyclades, including loves Milos , Naxos or Sifnos. Planning a trip to these islands is a little bit more off the beaten path than some of the other islands mentioned above and are the perfect addition on any trip to Greece.

The Saronic islands are only a short ferry ride from Athens (the closest island, Aegina, is only 40 minutes from the capital), and are a far more low-key experience than some of the busier Cyclades islands.

Finally, if you have a lot more time you can visit some destinations further afield such as Corfu – where you can visit towns like Agios Giorgios and Corfu Town – Rhodes or even explore more of the Greek mainland such as the Peloponnese region.

So, there you have it, the perfect way to spend 10 days exploring the Greek islands. You’ve seen the most famous, the most beautiful, the laid back and the craziest places in the Cycladic islands. But don’t worry, you have another 223 islands to come back and explore!

Are you planning a trip to the Greek islands? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Oia or Fira: Where to Stay in Santorini?

Is Greece Expensive? A Greece Trip Cost Guide in 2024

Crete or Corfu: Which Greek Island to Visit?

About Lizzie Fitzgerald

Lizzie is a writer for The World Was Here First. She loves travelling and discovering new places but also often finds herself returning to her favourite destinations. She has a particular affinity for Greece where she has visited countless islands and destinations on the mainland.

how much was the budget for a trip like this for just a couple going?

We have guides to the general prices in Greece along with specific guides to the prices in Mykonos and the prices in Santorini . Hopefully this helps you budget your trip adequately 🙂

Hello. Is this itinerary feasible for families with kids (5 and 1 year old)?

Hi Sheila, obviously it depends on your children, however, I see no reason why this wouldn’t be suitable for families with young kids 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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

• Work with us
• Privacy Policy
• Meet the Team

Greece Travel Secrets

plan your trip to Greece here

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.

RECENT ARTICLES

A complete guide to ano syros, day trips from santorini to other islands, day trips from naxos, one day in corfu, why you must see the greek wedding show santorini, things to do in corfu, one day in heraklion, crete, things to do in psiri athens, milos santorini naxos and athens itinerary, the most romantic places in greece – towns, villages, hotels and villas, what to do and where to stay in koufonisia, one day in santorini, how to get to olympia greece and what to see, indulge in an hammam athens experience, car hire in greece, 37 of the best mainland greece beaches, how to get to kalamata, greece, day trips from kalamata, top things to do in kalamata, greece, athens to sifnos – transport options and tours.

15 of the Best Towns and Cities to Visit in Greece

From historic hillside cities to island destinations, these are 15 of the best towns and cities to visit in Greece.

More than 27 million travelers made their way to Greece in 2022 , visiting the country's gorgeous islands and coastlines, rural towns, and historic capital city of Athens. One look at its landscapes and it's easy to see why travelers dream of visiting Greece — but there's so much more to this Mediterranean nation. 

"Everyone knows that Greece boasts stunning crystalline waters that make you want to dive right in and historical sites that whisper tales of the past. Its culinary delights are a perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring its unique cultural riches and vibrant art scene, but what truly sets Greece apart is its people," Christos Stergiou , a travel advisor with True Trips, shared with Travel + Leisure . "Greeks have this incredible gift called philoxenia: hospitality taken to a whole new level. Our True Trips guests always describe the feeling of having new local friends who'll go above and beyond to make their journey unforgettable." 

Ready to plan your getaway? Here are 15 of the best cities to visit in Greece.

Yes, a visit to Athens feels obvious, because not only is it the capital city, but it’s also home to the international airport you’ll likely fly into on your visit. That said, Athens is well worth a trip in its own right, as it’s home to some of the most important historical sites on Earth, including the must-see Acropolis. Need more? Here’s how to spend one perfect day in Athens .

Related: The Best Times to Visit Greece

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, located in the northern part of the country, offers a blend of history and youthful energy that few cities can match. “I would recommend Thessaloniki for its long and epic history,” Peter Sommer, founder of Peter Sommer Travels , shared. “The historic center of Thessaloniki is filled with an extraordinary series of ancient monuments, many of them part of an imperial palace complex built by the Roman Emperor Galerius and vast in scope."

Sommer added that there are several museums to visit here, including the Museum of Byzantine Culture and the Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki. “But history and archaeology aren’t the only reasons to come to Thessaloniki. It’s justly famed for its gastronomy,” Sommer added. “You can savor a huge selection of glorious local dishes and sample a cornucopia of excellent local wines.”

Drive two hours east of Thessaloniki to find another northern city worth exploring — Kastoria. The scenic city sits perched on Lake Orestiada between the Grammos and Vitsi mountains. Visitors can enjoy peaceful boat rides on the lake with any number of outfitters lining the shores, or just watch the local fisherman go to work each day to reel in the catch. Or, book a tour with Adventures With Wine to bike the lake’s shoreline and see all the hidden nooks worth exploring. 

“Ioannina truly shines as a city that's a hidden treasure, especially for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers,” Stergiou shared of the city that sits on Lake Pamvotida. It’s a spot that has inspired many creative talents thanks to its epic vistas, but more than that, Stergiou explained, it’s a fantastic home base for exploring more of the northwest region of Greece. 

“In addition to the beautiful lake that stands proud as the city’s landmark, the Byzantine castle, the scenic historical center, and the lively neighborhoods, Ioannina is a gateway to countless incredible experiences within a drive of an hour or two. From there, you can take daily trips to some of the most beautiful villages in all of Greece, such as Metsovo or captivating Zagorohoria, filled with breathtaking landscapes and charming stone houses.” 

Kalamata, a city well-known for its olive production, is a place where travelers can get lost — in the best way possible. Come stroll its winding cobblestone streets, explore the castle, and visit museums like the Modern Greek Art Gallery for a well-rounded city escape in the Peloponnese region.

Kalambaka, a city located in central Greece, is famous for its unparalleled view of the stunning Meteora. The city sits at the base of the towering rock formations topped with historic monasteries that date back as early as the 11th century. The complex of monasteries is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you can visit many for a small fee.

There are more than 6,000 Greek islands , and while many come with small populations, the island of Rhodes is positively metropolitan thanks to the city of Rhodes. Home to some 50,000 people, the city is famed for its ancient history and the duality of its New Town and Old Town. While there’s nothing wrong with New Town, Old Town is a walled-off time capsule to the past, and it's one of the largest remaining medieval settlements in Europe.

Nafplio, located in the eastern Peloponnese, is a seaside dream packed with Venetian architecture to explore. As Alys Colayera, lead travel expert for Greece at Black Tomato , shared, it’s a “great place to wander through the old alleyways, grab a strong cup of Greek coffee at a local coffee shop in the square, and take a boat to Bourtzi Castle if you are interested in architecture and history.” As for the name of the town, Visit Greece explained that it comes from its mythological founder, Nafplios, one of Poseidon's sons.

One more island city to explore is Chania on the island of Crete. It too is famed for its Venetian harbor and quaint old town. Explore its cobblestone streets, duck into museums like the Maritime Museum of Crete , and shop for souvenirs in its endless boutiques. Pro tip: Leather goods are famously great here, so go ahead and splurge on a bag or a pair of shoes. 

While Larissa has a population of more than 130,000 people, it remains a place well in touch with Mother Nature. This city in central Greece is an agricultural hub, growing vegetables, grains, fruits, and more, so it's a great place to dig into some Thessalian cuisine. While in town, explore the Ancient Theatre of Larissa , dedicated to the god Dionysus, to learn more about the area's ancient history.

History abounds in the southern city of Corinth, thanks to well-preserved ruins including the iconic Temple of Apollo and the Acrocorinth fortress. Just an hour from Athens, Corinth and the surrounding coastal towns make a perfect day trip from the capital city, says Colayera.

If you’re making your way to the islands, odds are you’ll pass through the port city of Piraeus. Dozens of ferries come in and out of the harbor each day, but before you board one, spend a little time exploring the city by visiting places like The Hellenic Maritime Museum , which showcases Greece's rich seafaring heritage.

Head north along the Aegean coast to Kavala, a hillside city with gorgeous beaches, sweeping vistas, and an exciting mix of ancient history and modern city life. You can’t miss its imposing aqueduct, which runs for almost 1,000 feet and dates to the 16th century. Once you’re done viewing that, head straight to The Acropolis of Kavala to learn more about this city’s fascinating history.

Find the party in Patras, a university port city in western Greece. Yes, of course, you’ll find history here, including inside the Archaeological Museum of Patras , which showcases goods from the surrounding region dating back to prehistory. But in Patras, you’ll also find a bustling (and modern) nightlife scene across several neighborhoods, including down Riga Feraiou Pedestrian Street, where you can snag a delicious bite of Greek food, too. 

Explore one of the most beautiful places in Greece when you plot a trip to Corfu Town on the eastern coast of the island of Corfu. Here, travelers can explore the historic architecture that earned Old Town of Corfu a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. Tour the fortresses, stroll through the town’s central market, and visit Spianada Square, the largest square in Greece.

For more Travel & Leisure news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

‘It’s plain elitist’: anger at Greek plan for €5,000 private tours of Acropolis

Archaeologists and guides among critics who say scheme goes against what symbol of democracy should represent

J ackie and Malcolm Love stood amid a bevy of tourists in the heart of Athens taking in the Acropolis with a mixture of awe and admiration. The Greek capital’s greatest classical site was truly magnificent, they said, but the crowds had been such, even in April, that they preferred to experience it from a distance.

“We didn’t go, not with all those people,” said Jackie, looking up at the fifth-century monument from the cobbled boulevard below. “We didn’t think it’d be the best thing to do, did we?” she said, nudging her husband.

The couple, enjoying a city break from Ipswich, their English hometown, had pondered whether to do a private tour instead. The Greek culture ministry is planning personalised visits to the ancient complex – at €5,000 (£4,285). “We wouldn’t pay that,” said Malcolm, a lorry driver. “Crazy prices,” Jackie chipped in. “Certainly not for people like us.”

The Acropolis is by far Greece’s biggest attraction, drawing more than 22,000 visitors a day last summer, forcing authorities to introduce tough controls , including a time-slot system.

This year, officials have gone a step further, announcing a scheme that allows sightseers to beat the crowds and experience the Periclean masterpiece on an exclusive basis. The initiative foresees up to four groups of five people being guided by expert archaeologists around the site between 7am to 9am and 8pm to 10pm – before opening and after closing times – to avoid the thousands of selfie-snappers who hourly ascend the rocky hill. “We’ve had requests from tour operators for this for a very long time,” said Nikoleta Valakou, the president of the Hellenic Organization of Cultural Resources Development, a state body connected to the culture ministry.

The ministry, she said, was prepared to permit tours for individuals, provided they were willing to pay the group fee. “There’ll be souvenirs too,” added Valakou. “A replica of a coin, perhaps, or copy of a small statue … something to conjure memories of the unique experience.”

But the measure – part of an overhaul of ticketing policy at more than 350 archaeological sites and museums managed by the Greek culture ministry – has triggered anger and derision, including from archaeologists. Guides have described it as impractical and critics have argued it runs counter to the spirit of everything the world’s pre-eminent symbol of democracy is supposed to represent. “The next thing you know people will be making marriage proposals and drinking champagne up there,” said Despina Koutsoumba, the vice-president of the country’s archaeologists’ association. “They’ll feel entitled, if they’ve spent that sort of money, to do whatever they want at the site.”

The very idea, she said, was “unacceptably exclusive”. After all, the monument was the emblem of democratic Athens in which citizens enjoyed equality before the law.

“What this says is Greece is willing to give people who have money the ability to enjoy the Acropolis in a very exclusive way while leaving out those who simply don’t have such means. We’re utterly opposed to it,” Koutsoumba added.

Previously, only world leaders, royalty and the odd celebrity had been granted access to the site out of opening hours.

The public, with the exception of academics and preservationists, have one day – the August full moon – to savour the temples at night.

As opposition has mounted, critics have questioned the wisdom of the decision at a time when the wealth gap between the rich and poor has become ever more accentuated. “It’s plain elitist,” said Costas Zambas who headed restoration works at the Acropolis for over 25 years.

“The very notion goes against the spirit of a place that we associate with democracy. It doesn’t sit well.”

With Athens at the sharp end of the climate emergency, tourist guides have raised objections over the workability of a scheme that for the vast majority will mean the site opening at 9am instead of 8am. Last summer the Greek capital – continental Europe’s southernmost metropolis – experienced record temperatures of up to 45C (113F), compelling officials to take the unprecedented step of closing the Acropolis for several days.

“If they push back opening hours to 9am because of these private tours it’s going to be a disaster,” said Kriton Piperas, who until recently was the head of the 4,000-strong Panhellenic Federation of Tourist Guides. “For several years our union has been pressing for the Acropolis to open earlier precisely because of the changing weather. Don’t forget with the lack of shade it’s that much hotter up there.”

Increasingly, he said, Greece’s pro-business centre right government saw culture through an exclusively commercial lens. “They look at the Acropolis and anything associated with tourism as a product,” he said. “This idea of unique tours is like putting a price tag on the site, it reminds me of an auction where the highest bidder wins and is told ‘you can have it all to yourself’. It’s wrong and bound to lead to trouble.”

Ticket-holders on cruise ships, which are the source of ever more day-trippers to the Greek capital, often book months in advance and are on a very tight schedule. Most are waiting in line at the Acropolis by 8am.

In her office overlooking a central Athens boulevard, Valakou said the culture ministry had taken the criticism onboard. The tours, it is estimated, could bring in up to €40,000 a day, with proceeds going to cash-starved cultural projects.

“Revenues will be reinvested,” she said. “As the Acropolis will be the first for such tours it’ll be a pilot programme and we’ll be open to change.”

The omens are not all bad. The scheme has been met with delight by some in the Greek diaspora where the well-heeled have already suggested they will be signing up.

“I’ve heard from dozens of friends who’ve expressed interest in joining these bespoke tours,” said Peter Poulos, the executive director of the Hellenic Initiative, a global Greek diaspora philanthropic organisation.

“Why not relieve people of their money if it’s going to help protect and preserve our cultural monuments for generations to come? We all support the loftiest of ideals but at the end of the day ideals aren’t going to pay the hard costs needed to run a site of this magnitude.”

• Archaeology

Most viewed