best places to visit in greece in 7 days

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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

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Greece in 7 Days: Itinerary Ideas for Island Hopping + Beyond

Hoping to discover Greece in 7 days? With only a week in Greece, you have your work cut out to design the perfect Greece itinerary for you!

Unlike many countries where there’s a fairly typical first-timers route to follow, Greece’s 227 islands and captivating mainland mean that there are truly infinite Greek itineraries at your fingertips.

To help show off the best of Greece from many angles, we teamed up with 13 other travel bloggers and asked them to share their favorite 7 day Greece itinerary ideas–and the options are as varied as they are exciting!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

From ancient monasteries to bustling cities, from idyllic islands to magnificent ruins, there is no shortage of incredible places to visit in Greece.

Whether you want to soak up the sun on a Greece island-hopping itinerary, take an exciting road trip, or seek out the best ruins of Ancient Greece, one of these 7 day Greece itineraries is for you!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Exploring Greece in 7 Days

7 day island hopping greek itinerary ideas, more greece in 7 days itinerary ideas.

Before we dive into our Greek itineraries, here are some quick tips to be aware of as you plan your trip!

Don’t shy away from shoulder season.

Greece’s summer months of June, July, and August–especially August–can be intensely, oppressively busy.

Whether you want to relax on the best beaches in Greece or marvel at the Acropolis, you’ll find crowds in every direction.

If you can, consider planning a trip in April, May, September, or October instead–especially if swimming isn’t a big part of your plans.

… and book in advance!

Greece’s islands are full of beautiful boutique hotels–and they book up far in advance!

If you’re traveling during the summer, be sure to book your hotels, a rental car if you plan to get one, and any specific tours that you have your heart set on well in advance.

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your week in Greece will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your trip.

Browse rental cars  for your 7 days in Greece today!

Classic Itinerary for 7 Days in Greece

From Dymphe of Dym Abroad

If you have 7 days to spend in Greece, you can visit Athens, Hydra, Santorini, and Mykonos.

This is a great, classic itinerary for first-time visitors as it covers a large variety of most popular places to visit in Greece.

First, start by spending 2 days in Athens . This is an amazing city to visit, as there are a lot of ancient sites, including the famous Acropolis, and fantastic museums.

Besides that, Athens is also the perfect place if you want to try Greek cuisine. For example, the area Plaka has great restaurants.

On the third day, take a day trip to Hydra from Athens. This is great, as you can take a ferry that only takes about 1.5 hours.

What’s fun about this trip is that even though it is close to athens, it is completely different. it is a very picturesque island, where cars aren’t allowed., you find here many relaxing places, and there are good restaurants and good places for swimming..

On the fourth day, go to Santorini, where you stay for 2 days.

Santorini is one of the most  beautiful places in Greece . It’s famous because of the blue domes and breathtaking viewpoints.

If you’ve seen any photos of Greece, you’ve almost certainly seen photos from Oia, one of the most popular villages in Santorini.

Here you find many of the most  Instagrammable places in Santorini .

You can spend the last 2 days on Mykonos.

This island is famous for its nightlife, so if you want to party this place is great! Besides that, you also find great beaches and lovely villages.

One of the best places to visit is Mykonos Town. You find here cobblestone streets, local shops, and great Greek restaurants.

Quick Greece Travel Tip

For this itinerary, you have to travel a lot by ferry.

To make your travels simpler, we recommend buying tickets in advance online.

Athens + Folegandros + Santorini

From Martha of  May Cause Wanderlust

Start your 7 day Greek itinerary in Athens, where you can explore the best of the city in a couple of days.

You’ll definitely want to visit the Acropolis, which overlooks the city like an ancient sentinel. On the top of this rocky platform, there are temples and monuments from Ancient Greece, most famously the Parthenon. 

Other ancient remains you can explore include the Roman Forum and the marble Panathenaic Stadium.

When you’ve had your fill of monuments, roam the streets of Plaka and Monastiraki, the areas near the base of the Acropolis, where there are plenty of shops, churches, and places to eat.

Folegandros

From Athens, catch a ferry to Folegandros, a small and stunningly peaceful island within the Cyclades.

A fast ferry will take 3 hours 45 minutes, and soon you’ll be pulling into the picture-perfect harbor of Karavostasi.

From here you can explore the island by boat, visiting its quiet beaches.

You can also catch a bus to the main town of Chora, which sits high on the island, next to a cliff that overlooks the gorgeous Aegean sea. 

The pace is slow in Folegandros, so enjoy languid dinners in white-washed streets surrounded by pretty Bougainvillea trees.

Once you’ve relaxed on Folegandros for 2-3 days, you might want a little excitement, and where better than Santorini, the jewel of the Cyclades. It is less than an hour from Folegandros by fast ferry. 

Here you will marvel at the scenery of the volcanic caldera – the best views are from the towns of Oia and Fira.

Santorini is more well-known and popular than Folegandros, so prices are higher and reservations are needed for accommodation and restaurants.

If you fancy something more active, take a trip to Nea Kameni, one of the newer volcanos that have formed in the middle of the caldera.

If you don’t fancy taking the ferries, consider a small ship sailing holiday – there are plenty of itineraries, and this is a great way to go   island-hopping in the Cyclades .

7 Day Greek Island Hopping Itinerary in Mykonos, Delos + Paros

From Lavina of Continent Hop

Looking for a classic Greece island itinerary? This one is for you!

While you can spend as long as you please on each island, you can visit about 3 islands in a week by spending at least 2 days at each destination.

Start your Greece trip in  Mykonos . One of the best ways to get here is to fly directly or get on a ferry from  Santorini , which takes about an hour.

Once here, try to stay on the East side of the island as there are fewer tourists here and budget-friendly!

Little Venice is a must-visit, and the Chora windmills are a must-visit here!

The island of Delos can be done as a day trip from Mykonos via ferry from the new port in Mykonos at Tourlos.

It is said that the Greek God Apollo was born here, and hence for those who love mythology, architecture, and history, Delos makes for a great addition to a Greek island hopping itinerary. 

Paros can be reached via Naxos, and it takes about 2 hours 45 minutes to get to this island.

While Paros is also popular with tourists, you will find abandoned marble quarries here, making it an offbeat activity you can visit when here.

Naoussa village will remind you of Little Venice when you’re here!

This build-your-own itinerary can easily be adjusted by swapping Santorini for Mykonos, or Naxos for Paros.

Northern Aegean Island Hopping Trip

From Anda of Travel For A While

If you’re looking for a less touristy part of Greece to explore, you’ll love the Northern Aegean islands.

This 7 days in Greece itinerary starts in Kavala, a sea town in Northern Greece.

It’s easy to ignore Kavala, but if you have a few hours to spare, there’s a pleasant surprise awaiting.

Most   things you need to see in Kavala  are in the Old Town, on the peninsula.

Head to the narrow streets of the Panagia and make your way up to the fortress, and you’ll be rewarded with some amazing views of the city and the sea.

This is also the best vantage point to see the aqueduct passing through the city.

The ferry to Lemnos should take 3 to 4 hours.

Lemnos is a very diverse island where you can find anything from sandy beaches, desert dunes, churches hidden in the mountain, and a Byzantine castle overlooking the sea.

The capital of  Lemnos, Myrina  will leave you speechless with not one, but two sea promenades. Try the taverns in the small fishing harbor and enjoy the fresh catch every day.

One of my favorite Greek islands, Samothraki is not exactly a beach paradise.

You can hike in Samothraki, up to the highest summit at 1600m, explore the ruins of the Ancient Sanctuary of the Great Gods, chase the waterfalls or explore the traditional villages.

The beaches are mostly unorganized, but this only adds to the charm of the place.

Stay on the right side of the ferry going to Limnos. You’ll have an incredible view over Mt. Athos for almost the entire trip.

A Week in Andros, Tinos + Mykonos

From Chrysoula of Greece Travel Ideas

This 7 day itinerary for Greece is perfect if you want to do some  island hopping on the Greek islands  as all three islands are really close to each other and you don’t lose time traveling between them.

It also offers a great overview to first-time visitors as it includes a very popular island, Mykonos with two lesser-known ones, Andros and Tinos.

The first stop on your itinerary is  Andros Island , the second-largest island of the Cyclades group that is only 2 hours away by ferry from Athens (Rafina port).

Andros’s Chora (main town) is one of the most beautiful in the Cyclades.

It is also one of the best Greek islands for hiking with around 200 km of signposted paths and for art lovers as it is home to the museum of modern art that every summer houses some amazing exhibitions.

Finally, Andros has great beaches including Achla, Tis Grias to Pidima, and Aghios Petros. 

Just 1 hour and 30 minutes away from Andros is Tinos an island famous for its churches and chapels (more than 750) with the Church of the Virgin Mary being one of the most important in the whole country.

Apart from the nice beaches around the island, Tinos has picturesque villages worth exploring like Pyrgos and Kardiani. It is also home to more than 600 ornate dovecotes. 

The final stop on your Greece itinerary is the popular island of  Mykonos only 30 minutes away from Tinos.

There are plenty of things to do on the island including a boat trip to the sacred island of Delos which is a Unesco Heritage site, a walk around the windmills in Mykonos Chora, enjoying the sunset over Little Venice, and searching for Petros the Pelican in the alleyways.

If you are looking for exciting nightlife and gourmet dining you are in the right place.

Finally, in Mykonos, you will find some of the best beaches in Greece including Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach, Elia, and Ornos. 

The best time to enjoy this trip is in June and September when there are fewer crowds and the temperature is not as high.

7 Day Greek Island Itinerary for Rhodes + Patmos + Mykonos

From Zoe of Together in Transit

Start your week in Greece on the  gorgeous island of Rhodes . It is a beautiful place that has a bit of everything for everyone.

Whether you like relaxing at the local beaches, snorkeling the clear waters, exploring historical Greek ruins, or walking the cobblestoned pathways of the old town – the island has it all.

While you’re there, plan a day trip to Lindos, a perfect little Greek village with an impressive and historical Acropolis to explore. 

After Rhodes, the next destination is Patmos, easily reachable with the fast direct boat.

Patmos is a much smaller island, meaning also fewer tourists and more locals – which is great for truly experiencing Greece.

The village Chora on the island is the perfect spot for  views across the whole island . There are also many little boutiques and restaurants here selling local fresh fish.

Lastly, make your way to the last destination of the week to Mykonos.

Immerse yourself in the blue and white colored streets and alleyways for shopping and eating, before relaxing by the water’s edge for a drink.

Here you can also take a day trip to Delos for some history, before heading back to your hotel for a dip in an infinity pool. 

If you’d like to take a day trip to Delos , book early–the boats often get fully booked.

Book your guided day trip to Delos today!

On Patmos, consider renting a small scooter or car to truly explore the island’s local beaches and hiking spots.

A Greek Road Trip in Monemvasia + Elafonisos

By Maria of It’s All Trip To Me

The Peloponnese region in Southern Greece is a land filled with wonders.

Laconia, in particular, is one of the most authentic regions in the country.

There are a couple of amazing places to visit there during a 7 day Greece road trip.

Probably the most enchanting destination in mainland Greece,  Monemvasia is a breathtaking castle town   built on a rock in the middle of the sea.

With its stunning architecture, romantic cobbled streets, and laid-back ambiance, Monemvasia is a unique place where time seems to have stood still.

Few places to visit in Greece can boast an entire town that’s almost completely untouched by time and within the walls of which no vehicles are allowed. 

The second stop on a week-long road trip across Laconia should be  Elafonisos, a tiny island of turquoise waters and long stretches of dazzlingly white sand .

The ferry ride from Neapoli Port at the southernmost tip of the region to Elafonisos Island takes less than ten minutes.

Elafonisos is home to one of the most spectacular beaches in Greece, the famous Simos.

The island is ideal for a relaxing seaside escape like no other.  

When driving from Monemvasia Castle to Neapoli Port, follow the road signs to Neapoli via the New Road.

Even though that’s a slightly longer route, the new road is in a lot better condition than the old one, while it offers jaw-dropping views of monemvasia from afar. , 7 days in northern greece.

From Roxanne of Faraway Worlds

Spending a week in Thessaloniki, Meteora and the Halkidiki region gives you three very different Greek experiences without traveling too far.

Explore monasteries, mountains, and hidden beaches in just seven days with this northern Greece 7 day itinerary.

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second-largest city is vibrant and bustling with a long waterfront and some interesting architecture.

There are some great cafes and restaurants and it makes a great base for a few days.

There are some interesting museums to visit and there are some great day trips, including visiting Mount Olympus National Park and Pella , the capital of ancient Macedonia and the birthplace of Alexander the Great.

The Meteora Monasteries are one of the  highlights of mainland Greece .

Less than three hours’ drive from Thessaloniki, you’ll find huge karsts stretching up into the sky with monasteries built on the peak.

You can visit the monasteries, although keep in mind they can be very busy.

If you’re staying in the area for a couple of days, hiking through the valley is a peaceful experience with stunning views – there are trails accessible from the main town of Kalabaka and the smaller village of Kastraki.

Less than two hours out of Thessaloniki is the beautiful region of Halkidiki, where three “fingers” of land stretch into the sea.

Halkidiki is a favorite for local holidays but sees fewer international tourists than the islands.

With beaches, mountain hikes, and small villages, Halkidiki is a wonderful base to relax by the sea and enjoy the outdoors.

The water is clear, the food is good, and it can give you a taste of the islands while keeping down the  cost of your trip to Greece .

Hiring a car to visit Halkidiki will allow you to fully explore all the hidden parts of this lovely region.

Archaeology in Greece 7 Day Itinerary: Athens + Delphi + Epidaurus

A  trip to some of the top archeological sites on mainland Greece is unforgettable for travelers with a keen interest in history .

These sites are all within a few hours of each other, allowing you to comfortably  create your own archeological tour .

Athens is a wonderland for anyone curious about archaeology.

Top sites include the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Agora, Aristotle’s Lyceum, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and more.

Some of the greatest finds are housed in world-class museums in the city. Be sure to visit both the Museum of the Acropolis and the National Archeological Museum. 

Your next stop is Delphi, the ancient “navel” of the world. You can visit as a day trip from Athens or enjoy it as an overnight destination.

As readers of both history and myth know, the oracles at Delphi influenced the most important decisions in the region.

You can explore the Temple of Apollo, the Tholos, and the nearby Delphi Archeological Museum, all of which make this an outstanding part of your travels.

Book your day trip to Delphi today!

There are two fascinating archeological sites to visit on your drive to Epidaurus.

The first is Ancient Corinth, the polis that gave its name to the ornate columns.

Shortly after you will reach the Archeological Site of Mycenae. The Mycenaean civilization is named after this Bronze Age site.

Additionally, it features prominently in Homer’s epic poems. Plan to spend a few hours exploring this remarkable site. 

The highlight of your trip to Epidaurus can be a live performance in the ancient theater. It is the best-preserved ancient theater in Greece and the acoustics continue to astound visitors.

Delight in some living history as you enjoy performances of the works of Greek playwrights like Sophocles and Aristophanes.

The theater is part of the larger Sanctuary of Asklepion, an important healing center in Greece.

Be sure to arrive early enough to explore the site and enjoy dinner before the performance. Plan to spend at least one night here.

Craft your 7 days in Greece itinerary around the performance schedule at Epidaurus because there are so few dates available.

The season traditionally runs on weekends from mid-June to mid-July but check for details before booking.

Epirus Region Itinerary

From Nina of Lemons and Luggage

Greece’s Epirus region is often overlooked by international tourists.

This 7 day itinerary for northwestern Greece is perfect for those who want to get off the beaten path and explore this beautiful region.

Start your trip in the capital of the Epirus region.

Explore the various  Islamic sites in Ioannina  such as the well-preserved mosques, the clock tower, the old town, or the Ali Paşa Museum on the islet of Ioannina.

Make sure to plan a day trip to the ancient oracle at Dodoni, the oldest and second most important of all oracles in Ancient Greece.

Zagorohoria

The Zagorohoria are some of the most beautiful mountain villages in Greece.

One of the prettiest villages is Monodendri with its stone buildings and pavements. From here you can easily reach the Ayia Paraskevi Monastery with its breathtaking views of the Vikos Gorge.

Another popular village is Papigko located behind Voidomatis River with its ice-cold turquoise water. Papigko is the perfect start for a hike through Vikos National Park.

The Zagori villages are also an excellent destination in the winter when their historic architecture and the setting in the mountains make for a very cozy atmosphere.

The small town of Metsovo is famous for its meat and cheese, so if you’re vegan check out this  vegan guide to Greece  first.

Hikers will love Metsovo’s location south of Pindos National Park, one of the least known national parks in Europe.

It’s a great park if you want to experience unspoiled nature. There are plenty of gorges, waterfalls, and old stone bridges to reward you. In the winter, the area offers skiing opportunities as well.

Keep in mind that the distances in this itinerary are quite short, but due to the winding mountain roads you should drive slowly and carefully.

Itinerary For a Week in Crete

From Claire of Zig Zag on Earth

Crete is a destination in itself in Greece.

There is so much to see on the island, and you can easily fill your 7 day itinerary for Greece on Crete alone.

I recommend traveling Crete as a road trip, to be able to enjoy all of its wonders.

Day 1 – 3: Heraklion

Start in Heraklion where you can arrive by ferry or plane.

This is the best place to learn about the Minoan civilization and the history of the island. Don’t miss the Archeological Museum and the famous Knossos Palace.

From Heraklion, you can also enjoy a day trip to the island of Spinalonga to learn about more recent history.

And, if Santorini is absolutely on your bucket list, know that you can plan a day trip from Heraklion to Santorini ( see article to best plan it ).

Day 4 – 5: Chania

After exploring the area surrounding Heraklion, continue your Greece vacation and head west to the most beautiful town in Crete: Chania.

Be sure to spend some time strolling its streets and seafront.

Chania is the perfect base to explore the west coast and is home to 2 of the  best places to visit in Crete : the magnificent Balos Lagoon (accessible by boat), and the pink beach of Elafonisi.

Day 6 – 7: Matala

To wrap up your 7 days in Greece, head to the south coast.

Matala is a great place to settle for a few days with a hippie vibe, beach, and magnificent sunsets.

From here you can enjoy the wonders of the Phaistos Palace (Minoan period) of the Gortynas Ruins (Roman times) or head to wilder beaches such as Preveli Beach.

You can’t go wrong in Crete. From everywhere you have access to beaches, mountains and historical sites.

When planning your trip to Crete, keep in mind that the north coast is more crowded than the south, and plan according to your preferences.

7 Day Milos Itinerary

From Mal of Raw Mal Roams

If you’re looking for a beautiful Greek island itinerary that doesn’t have crazy crowds like Santorini or Mykonos, you’ll love spending a week discovering Milos.

Day 1-2 Adamas

Adamas   is the largest and most busy town on Milos, and it’s the port where visitors come to Milos from Athens or other Cycladic islands.

Adamas is one of the  best places to stay on Milos  if you like to be close to a wide selection of restaurants, shops, and good nightlife.

On your seven-day Milos itinerary, you could easily check into one of Milos’ boutique hotels in Adamas for your whole trip and explore the island by car or bus.

Some of the best things to do in Adamas include strolling its promenade, dining in one of its seafront restaurants, and shopping its cute boutiques.

You can also catch a tour to the fantastic Kleftiko Beach, which is only accessible by boat.

If you need a relaxing day, lounge at one of the nearby beaches of Lagada Beach or Papkinou Beach.

Day 3: Serakiniko Beach, Firopotamos

Serakiniko Beach is probably the most famous place to see on Milos.

Its unworldly, moon-like landscape is perfect for taking some epic photos.

If you want to experience having the beach all to yourself, be sure to arrive early in the day!

After Serakiniko, head to the finishing village of Firopotamos for more charming sights and traditional Greek food.

Day 4: Plaka, Tripiti, Klima

A short drive from Adamas, there is Plaka – the island’s capital dating back to the 18th century.

Stop here to stroll its narrow cobbled streets and admire the Cycladic architecture, as well as check out the Archaeological Museum, Plaka Castle, and the ancient amphitheater and catacombs of Milos. 

If you have more time, also visit Tripiti, which is the neighboring town that is famous for windmills. From Tripiti, head to Klima – a colorful traditional fishing village.

Day 5: Pollonia + Kimolos Island 

On Day 5, head to Pollonia, situated in the northeast part of the island.

If you’re a fan of wine, pop to the Kostantakis Cave Winery and if you’re up for more adventure, take a short boat ride to the quaint island of Kimolos. 

Day 6-7: Tsigrado + Paleochori

On your last 2 days in Greece, stay in the Paleochori area, which has a good selection of hotels and is situated in the south.

Paleochori is a stunning beach with distinctive red and pink-colored rocks.

Spend a day lazing in one of the beach bars or visit the local sights, including the Sulphur Mines.

Spend your last day exploring Tsigrado beach, a short drive away from Paleochori. To access this beach, you’ll have to climb down a steep ladder which is an adventure in itself.

You can get to Milos by ferry from Athens’ port Piraeus or catch a flight from Athens to Milos airport.

If you want to save money, get a slow ferry, they are typically half the price of fast ferries.

Thessaloniki + Skopelos 7 Day Greece Itinerary

From Marta of Where Life is Great

Less popular than the Cyclades Islands, but similarly beautiful, the Sporades archipelago is a must-visit!

The easiest way to arrive is by flying into Thessaloniki and spending your first night there.

Thessaloniki has a multicultural history, beautiful churches, and interesting museums.

Wandering Thessaloniki town, you’ll come across many monuments mostly dating back to the Roman and Byzantine eras.

Don’t miss the white tower of Thessaloniki and Kapani Market!

Once you finish indulging in history, time to hop on a direct ferry to Skopelos for some island vibes.

Skopelos is quite a small island located on the Aegean sea within the archipelago of Sporades.

With a car, you could circle the island within a few hours but that’s not the point. It’s best to have at least 5 days to fully enjoy what the island has to offer.

Don’t miss the famous Mamma Mia filming locations on Skopelos : Agios Ioannis – Kastani Beach – Cape Amarandos.

Start the trip in Glossa, take your time in its charming old town built at an altitude of 300m above the Loutraki port.

Next up is the famous church of Mamma Mia! It’s only a 15 minutes drive from Glossa but it’s very curvy.

Try to avoid arriving at the church during midday as there are 200 steps to climb!

Driving along the coast towards Cape Amarandos, you can visit famous Kastani Beach where the majority of the scenes from Mamma Mia were shot.

The last stop is Cape Amarandos, a rocky cape with two lonely pines sticking out of a cliff.

Amarandos Cape became a symbol of Skopelos after playing in a scene “Our Last Summer” in the Mamma Mia movie. Bring comfy shoes as there is no path to follow.

The direct ferry from Thessaloniki to Skopelos starts operating in mid-June.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

3 thoughts on “Greece in 7 Days: Itinerary Ideas for Island Hopping + Beyond”

It’s not for everyone but a Mediterranean cruise is an effective way to see a lot of Greece in a short time. In October 2019 our ship cruised at night, berthed early, and sailed late. Therefore we had 8 full days to see each of Katakolon (Olympia), Athens (2 days), Kusadasi (Ephesus), Mykonos, Rhodes, Santorini, and Chania (Crete). If you are well-organised you can see a lot independently. We caught public transport to visit most of the tourist sites and saw a lot just by walking around. Alternatively, the ship’s shore excursions are available at a high price or one can book a tour directly from locals for significantly less. Despite it being October and prima-facie, the off-season, our cruise ship (and others) created our own in-port crowds with Santorini in particular (with its narrow lanes and limited route-choices) being very congested. The other ports were sufficiently spread-out with plenty of route-choices and were quite bearable. Our cruise was an excellent way to get our introduction to Greece but next time we will fly to Athens and find our own way around both the mainland and the islands.

I’m looking for ideas for my vision board–and came across your blog. A trip to Greece is on my bucket list, and this post is so thorough and amazing. Bookmarking for when I actually get to go. Thank you!

Thanks, Kendra! Hope you have a chance to make it to Greece soon. 🙂

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Greece 7 Days Itinerary: Complete Guide for First Time Visitors

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 27/02/2024

Greece, situated in the Mediterranean, is a stunningly beautiful country. Its azure waters surrounding its hot terrain make it the ideal getaway for those longing to lounge on the beach, taking occasional soothing dips in the warm ocean.

But there’s more to Greece than just breathtaking scenery. It’s a land rich in history and culture, capable of captivating even the most world-weary traveler. The country’s museums rank among the most remarkable globally, and you don’t have to venture inside to soak up the heritage.

A simple walk along the cobblestone lanes offers a window into Greece’s past. This Greece 7 days itinerary will cover history and culture as well as beaches and beautiful blue water.

Additionally, Greece distinguishes itself from other hot and humid nations by experiencing a cold winter. If you’re not fond of the heat, you can choose to visit during the winter months for a different yet equally enchanting experience.

Things to Book Before You Leave Home Few things are more frustrating on vacation than missing out on that amazing hotel or tour because it is sold out. Here are our top things to book before your vacation. 🔱 Most Popular Tours in Greece: 1. Athens Acropolis Skip the Line Tour -my top pick 2. Athens Acropolis and Musem Skip the Line Tour 3. Athens Street Food Tour -don’t eat breakfast before 4. Santorini Private Caldera Sailing Trip -book to include sunset 🛏️ Where to Stay in Athens : 1. AthensWas -stylish boutique hotel 2. The Stanley Hotel -great value with a rooftop bar and pool

Here is my Greece 7 Days Itinerary designed to give first-time visitors a taste of this beautiful country.

Greece 7 Days Itinerary

To make the most of your trip to Greece, it’s good to have an outline of what you want to get up to. That way you won’t miss any of the sights you want to see, and you’ll be able to start picturing yourself there right this minute.

However, since making a detailed 7 day itinerary for your trip to Greece can drain the fun out of holiday planning, here’s a suggested plan for you to work from.

7 Day Greece Itinerary: Days 1 & 2 in Athens

Since it’s easiest to fly into Athens, starting your trip here is best. Athens is the site of many iconic ancient Greek monuments and temples. There are so many fantastic things to do in Athens.

This start to your vacation will be all about culture, history and beauty. And you’ll have lots of energy to go out in the evening. Athens is known for its fun and vibrant nightlife, particularly in the summer.

Day 1: Visit the Acropolis and Lycabettus Hill

When you wake up on your first morning in Greece, set your sights on the Acropolis of Athens. Dating back to the 5th century BC, this hilltop temple monument is more than just a sight – it’s a collection of awe-inspiring landmarks that can easily occupy your entire morning as you explore its iconic wonders.

It’s highly recommended to take a guided tour of the Acropolis . Considering the vast area and the plethora of sites to see, a guided tour ensures you don’t miss any significant spots. Most terms will conveniently include your ticket for the Acropolis and provide access through the quickest entry line.

Situated atop a rugged outcrop overlooking Athens, the ancient citadel provides breathtaking views. The splendor of the Acropolis is further enhanced by the fact that the view is unspoiled by the modern cityscape below. The blend of ancient marvels and scenic beauty creates an unforgettable experience.

⇒ Pre book your skip the line ticket for the Acropolis

See the Parthenon

While at the Acropolis, visit the Parthenon, the most important remaining monument from classical Greece. It’s also world-renowned, and you’ll surely have heard of it many times. Be sure to take a few photos!

Marvel at the Acropolis Museum

Just a 10-minute walk down the hill you will find the museum dedicated to the Acropolis. This is a great place to go, with the incredible architecture fresh in your imagination. Also, it’s the perfect opportunity to find a little restaurant as you go.

⇒ Beat the Queue and pre-book your ticket for the Acropolis & Museum

Klepsidra Cafe is one of the best options in the area. Greek food is incredible, and you’ll surely find the perfect thing to energize you as you explore the Acropolis Museum.

After lunch, it is time to climb another one of Athen’s hills – Mount Lycabettus. At 227 meters tall, the summit of Lycabettus is the highest point in central Athens and has some fantastic views of the city and the Acropolis.

Walking up the hill to the top of Mount Lycabettus is relatively easy. But if you’re all walked out after spending the morning at the Acropolis take the easy-to-use cable car up and down the mountain.

At the top of the mountain, you’ll find a restaurant with great views and a classically Greek blue and white church St George.

After all that walking you’ve earned a drink. In the early evening, head to Bar Kepameio and enjoy a spritz. Kapameio owns a souvlaki place next door called Elvis, which has some of the best souvlakis in Athens. It is worth a visit as the souvlaki I enjoyed there was outstanding. Best of all you can place your order in Elvis and then enjoy your souvlaki at your table in the bar.

You might enjoy reading some of my other articles about Greece: – Greek Landmarks – Things to do in Thessaloniki – Halkidiki Beaches – Facts about Greece

Day 2: Explore Athens through its cuisine

Taking a food tour is one of my favorite ways to explore a city, and Athens is an excellent place for a food tour! I took my food tour with Viator and it was wonderful. Our guide was local and very knowledgeable.

We did everything from a Greek honey tasting to visiting a Koulouri bakery (the delicious sesame rings you will see all over Greece) and visiting Athens Central Market for some fantastic lamb that had been cooking in the sand for hours.

Whether you take a food tour or not I would recommend a trip to Athens Central Market – particularly at lunchtime. Many locals visit to buy their seafood, and there is a great atmosphere. Plus it is home to restaurants and cafes.

Once you finish your food tour you won’t want to eat for a little while. It is the perfect time to explore the lovely little neighborhood of Anafiotika. This small area sits behind some of the key tourist sites in Athens. It was built in the 1800s when King Otto 1 wanted Athens to be rebuilt.

Builders were brought in from the Cycladic island of Anafi. While they were working on rebuilding Athens, they built a replica of their island near the Acropolis. Anafiotika means little Anafi. Only 45 buildings remain today, but it is a lovely neighborhood for a wander.

Then, continue to walk off your food tour by visiting the neighborhood of Plaka, home to cute streets and some great shopping.

Hopefully by the time dinner rolls around you’ll be ready to eat again. I highly recommend Seychelles. Loved by locals, you’ll find unique twists on popular Greek dishes. It’s located in the Metaxourgeio neighborhood. Don’t forget to book ahead or you won’t get a table.

Boutique Hotels in Athens

Stay close to the Acropolis in the very stylish AthensWas boutique hotel. The AthensWas boutique hotel has fantastic views of the Acropolis (ask for a room on one of the higher floors) – particularly from the terrace – and it is in an excellent neighborhood with loads of great restaurants and shops.

➡️ Check Availability and Prices for AthensWas

If you love fantastic interiors, then check out the New Hotel . And this Athens boutique hotel has a spa complete with a hammam, jacuzzi, and treatment room. Even the standard rooms are large at 20 to 23 square meters and they have a pillow menu.

➡️ Check Availability and Prices for the New Hotel

The Stanley Hotel has a fantastic location next to Metaxourgeio Station, making it easy to get everywhere in Athens. They also have a great rooftop pool and bar with views of the Acropolis. The rooms are a little on the small side, but you won’t spend much time in them with that view on the rooftop.

➡️ Check Availability and Prices for The Stanley Hotel

7 Days Greece Itinerary: Days 3, 4 & 5 in Santorini

Now it’s time to head off to the Greek islands to get more sun, sand and beautiful sights. These stunning islands are world-renowned as a dreamy destination.

Santorini is one of the most picturesque places in the world. The white buildings are set off perfectly by the deep blue Aegean sea below them.

While your days on this island can consist mainly of coffee shops, gelateria, restaurants, and bars (yes, the food and drink is that good), a little sightseeing can go a long way. Especially when it’s coupled with some beautiful swimming and tanning opportunities.

Read more about Santorini: – Santorini Greece Black Sand Beaches – Santorini Wineries – Where to watch the Santorini Sunset

Day 3: Morning Walk between Thira and Oia and Sunset Santorini Wine Tour

The walk between Thira and Oia is about 10 kilometres so it will take 2-2 1/2 hours. It is a stunning path along the caldera. You will head up and down quite a bit, so wear sensible shoes.

➡️ Book a guided walk between Thira and Oia

Did you know that for centuries, the economy of the Greek Island of Santorini was built on wine? I was shocked to discover that this was the case. When I first heard about wineries in Santorini and its famous assyrtiko grape, I thought wine from such a warm climate couldn’t possibly taste good. I am delighted to tell you that I was completely wrong.

The perfect way to experience the wine of Santorini is through a guided tour which includes a driver. Several companies run wine tours on the island.

Sunset wine tours generally start around 4 p.m. and finish about 8 pm. Most tours will pick up and drop off guests at their hotels or a spot close to their accommodation.

Each wine tour company works with several wineries. The majority of tours visit three wineries. Visits include a tasting (of course) and a generous platter of local delicacies. The food served on the tour is sufficient to cover dinner.

➡️ Book Your Santorini Wine Tour

Day 4: Day of Exploring and a Sunset Cruise

Spend the day getting to know the city by foot. Meander down the winding lanes and pop into the cafes and shops you come across.

In the afternoon, join a small-group luxury catamaran cruise. You’ll see more of the island, swim in volcanic hot springs, and snorkel in the clear blue waters.

Day 5: Relax

I am officially giving you a day off! This is a day to spend either by your pool in the hotel or head to some of Santorini’s famous black beaches for a day of rest and relaxation.

Boutique Hotels in Santorini

On my first trip to Santorini, I stayed at the Anteliz Suites in Fira and absolutely loved it. This charming Santorini boutique hotel is perched on the top of Fira. As such it has the most amazing views of the Santorini sunset. And a large deck area designed to help you to enjoy that view.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Anteliz Suites

In Oia, Canaves Oia Hotel is the whitewashed Santorini hotel of your dreams. The hotel is cut into the old caves and has a minimalist design. Plus there is a gorgeous pool with a swim-up bar.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Canaves Oia Hotel

On my second trip to Santorini, I stayed in Oia in the north of the island. Mr. and Mrs. White Santorini is a charming boutique hotel on the caldera with fantastic views. It is very modern in design but combined with the island’s traditional style.

We stayed in a mezzanine room that had a bathroom and sofa bed on the mezzanine. But the highlight was the massive terrace in the room with views straight out onto the caldera and the Santorini sunset.

The design theme is black and white which works very well on this often blue-and-white and oh-so-bright island. Breakfast is served above the main reception and also provides fantastic views. The buffet includes hot food, and I highly recommend the spanokopitas. Greek or traditional-style omelets are also available.

The hotel has a pool area and a second area for a smaller pool and jacuzzi. It is a slight maze of rooms, arches, and outdoor corridors, but this gives an excellent sense of privacy. The staff were very friendly – particularly at breakfast where they remembered our coffee order each morning!

There are quite a few boutique hotels within Oia, but they all looked like they had pretty small rooms and no full-size pool. Plus Oia can get quite loud. Mr and Mrs White was the perfect mix of being close to the action but removed enough for privacy.

➡️ Check Availability and Prices for Mr and Mrs White

You might enjoy reading some of my other articles about the Greek Islands: – Paxos Restaurants – Things to do in Paxos Greece – Best Paxos Beaches -Things to do on Ios – Santorini to Ios – Mylopotas Beach – Most Beautiful Islands in Greece

Greece Vacation Itinerary: Days 6 & 7 in Mykonos

Next is a few days in one of Europe’s most fun summer party destinations. This is an island where you can sleep in late. There’s no need to feel guilty about not making the most of your days, as your nights will get the attention.

Day 6: Take a Delos and Rhenia Islands Boat Trip

After you wake up late and have a lovely lazy morning, spend the afternoon exploring the nearby islands . It’s a beautiful way to spend a day, especially since you can sip on unlimited drinks and start your Mykonos buzz before watching the sunset over the island.

Next, head to Lola’s Bar-Cafe to kick the night off with a delicious cocktail. The bar has a warm and welcoming atmosphere; if you go alone, you’ll leave with friends.

➡️ Book Your Boat from Mykonos Trip

Day 7: Party at Paradise and Super Paradise Beach

These extremely popular beaches will have you feeling the party spirit. They might not be your traditional idea of paradise, but they offer a great time.

During the day, enjoy basking on the beach. But it’s during the night when things heat up. Bars play loud music that carries across the sand, and massive clubs boast international DJs and almost unending hours.

Boutique Hotels on Mykonos

Boheme Mykonos is carved into a mountain with views of the sea. Enjoying relaxing on the sundeck by the pool. They are right next to the bar and restaurant so you don’t need to move to be fed and watered.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Boheme Mykonos

Rocabella Mykonos is slightly more upmarket and its rooms come with private terraces. The outdoor pool is lined by white rocks with lots of day beds. And there is a spa with an enticing range of treatments on offer.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Rocabella Mykonos

Your 7 Days in Greece Itinerary in Conclusion

With this definitive 7-day itinerary, your vacation in Greece will be complete and encompass everything you desire. From the breathtaking beaches and intriguing galleries to renowned museums, vibrant nightlife, and delectable cuisine, there’s something to thrill even the most seasoned traveler.

I covered all the costs in writing this article on a 7 days in Greece Itinerary. However, this article does include affiliate links. That means if you click through on some of the links in this article and end up making a purchase, I may receive a small commission.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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How to spend 7 days In Greece — 4 unique itineraries

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The tour to Greece was a pleasant surprise for me! Perfect organisation, pleasant team, amazing landscapes and cultural sites!

Awe-inspiring ancient attractions. Idyllic islands. Majestic mountains. Fabulous food, and world-class wine. Greece pretty much has it all. As a result, it’s not easy to get to grips with planning trips, which is where our suggested itineraries for how to spend 7 days in Greece are helpful. Read on to be inspired by four unique itineraries that’ll you help you get to the heart of glorious Greece. You’ll be surprised how much you can see and do in 7 days.

Itinerary #1: Cultural and natural sites of Athens and the Peloponnese

Itinerary #2: epirus and athens: the ancient sites, itinerary #3: discover naxos in style, itinerary #4: a secluded villa stay on mainland greece, tailor-made travel itineraries for greece, created by local experts.

10 days  / from 2632 USD

The Historical and Mythological Cyclades islands

The Cyclades islands include two of the most famous Greek Islands: Mykonos and Santorini. Visit these and some of the smaller, quieter, islands. With white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets, blue domed roofs and stunning beaches, they are what Greece is all about.

9 days  / from 2226 USD

A secluded villa stay on Mainland Greece

Stay in a secluded private villa with magnificent views to the sea and explore this beautiful corner of Mainland Greece with your own rental car. Under the impressive Mt Taygetos in Southern Peloponnese, the region of Mani will give you a snapshot of authentic Greece.

10 days  / from 2012 USD

Along the Coast of Crete: from Heraklion to Platanias

As Greece's largest island, Crete's culture and atmosphere is distinctly different from mainland Greece. Thousands of years of unique culture and rich history complement the island's untamed natural beauty. Explore Crete at your own pace with this unique self-drive trip!

Want to experience the best of Greece’s cultural and natural attractions in a single 7-day trip? Our  Cultural and Natural sites of Athens and the Peloponnese has your name all over it. 

Kicking off in the capital, your first day in Athens will see you enjoy a guided tour of the Acropolis and the New Acropolis Museum. 

After having your fill of ancient culture, visiting the Plaka and Monastiraki districts offers opportunities to have your fill of Greek food. 

On day 3, you’ll collect your hire car and head to the Isthmus of Corinth to view the Corinth Canal.

From here, the marvels of ancient Mycenae and Nemea await. With the latter surrounded by vineyards, you can enjoy a wine-tasting experience after seeing the site. 

Come the afternoon, drive to the ancient city of Sparta.

Your home for night will be gorgeous Guesthouse Mazaraki near Mystras — it offers views of Mystras castle, Sparta, and Mount Taygetos. 

Corinthian Canal, Greece © Shutterstock

Mystras, Greece © Shutterstock

On the 4 th day of your trip, you’ll venture to medieval Mystras on the slopes of Mount Taygetos.

Here you’ll be dazzled by Byzantine beauty before driving to the Mani region to board a boat that’ll see you enchanted by the Alepotripa and Vlichada caves. 

Next, visit Areopoli to be charmed by Byzantine churches. While in town, taste traditional bread in the 180-year-old bakery.

Later, bliss out on Limeni beach before dining in a local fish restaurant. 

On day 5, you’ll move through the Messenian region and visit the archaeological site of Ancient Messene.

Following this, move to the pretty seaside town of Pylos. Visit its splendid Venetian castle before bathing in the crystal-clear waters of Voidokilia beach and visiting the Lagoon of Gialova.

Next morning, you’ll visit 13 th -century Chlemoutsi Castle ahead of discovering the secrets of organic honey at a farm.

The remainder of day 6 will be spent exploring the ancient site of Olympia. 

The last day of your trip will take you to lovely Langadia, a traditional village tucked on the slopes of Mount Mainalon. From here, head to the seaside town of Loutraki.

After enjoying a treatment at the local thermal spa, indulge your taste buds in a restaurant overlooking the Corinthian Bay before returning Athens. 

Olympia, Greece © Oleg Znamenskiy/Shutterstock

Itinerary overview

Check out this overview of the 7 days Greece itinerary.

Day 1 

• Arrive in Athens, with free time to explore the city.
• Explore Athens. 
• Dine in a local restaurant, with an olive oil tasting experience.
• Visit the Corinth Canal, Mycenae and Nemea.
• Enjoy a wine-tasting experience.
• Visit Sparta and the Museum of the Olive and Olive Oil.
• Overnight in Guesthouse Mazaraki near Mystras.
• Visit medieval Mystras, and the Alepotripa and Vlichada caves.
• Explore Areopoli and enjoy a bread-tasting experience.
• Relax on Limeni beach and dine in a local fish restaurant. 
• Overnight in Guesthouse Mazaraki

Day 5 

• Move to the Messenian region to visit Messene.
• Explore Pylos, Voidokilia beach and the Lagoon of Gialova.
• Overnight in Katakolo.
• Visit Chlemoutsi Castle and taste organic honey at a farm.
• Explore the ancient site of Olympia
• Visit Langadia, Loutraki, and a thermal spa.
• Have lunch overlooking the Corinthian Bay.
• Overnight in Athens.

Inspired? Book this trip now!

Mycenae, Greece © Shutterstock

If you’re into myths, you’ll love our itinerary that covers  Epirus and Athens: the Ancient Sites .

After arriving in Athens, explore the city on foot, perhaps on a walking tour that focuses on food or history.

On day 2, collect your hire car and head northwest to the awe-inspiring Epirus region. 

Kick off your adventure with a stop in ancient Arta, which is known for its medieval and Byzantine attractions.

After lunching in a traditional tavern, travel to Ioannina — the captivating capital of Epirus.

On the 3 rd day of your trip, explore Ioannina Castle — the oldest Byzantine castle in Greece — and visit Lake Pamvotida.

After this, the town of Zitsa offers opportunities to taste wine and shop in boutiques.

Vikos Gorge, Zagori, Greece © Shutterstock

Ruins of Dodona, Epirus, northwestern Greece © Shutterstock

Day 4 will see you venture to the Zagori region. Highlights of this day include viewing Vikos Gorge, and visiting the villages of Zagorochoria.

Legends are in store on day 5, when you’ll visit Dodona  — an ancient sanctuary and oracle of Zeus. 

After touring the Hellenistic theatre, journey towards Parga. Here you can relax and bathe in the sea before dining at a beachfront restaurant.

On day 6, more mythic experiences await in Cassope and Necromanteion.

Nearby, you could take a boat trip from the village of Ammoudia to be regaled by stories of Hades and Persephone.

On day 7, visit the Roman city of Nicopolis before enjoying lunch in a traditional tavern in Preveza and returning to Athens.

Ready to dive into a myth-packed adventure? Find out more about this trip.

Lycabettus hill, Athens, Greece © Shutterstock

• Arrive in Athens and take a food or history tour.
• Drive northwest to the Epirus region and visit Arta en route to Ioannina.
• Overnight in Ioannina.
• Visit Ioannina Castle and Lake Pamvotida. 
• Head to Zitsa to taste wine and shop.
• Visit the Zagori region. 
• Visit Dodona.
• Relax in Parga and dine in a beachfront restaurant.
• Overnight in Parga.
• Visit ancient Cassope.
• Take a boat trip from Ammoudia.
• Visit Roman Nicopolis.
• Lunch in a Preveza tavern.
• Return to Athens.

National Garden, Athens, Greece © Shutterstock

If you’re looking for an idyllic island experience, why not discover Naxos in style ? 

Before heading to this scenic stunner, you'll have time to take a guided tour of Athens to see some of the city's must-see sights , among them the magnificent Acropolis .

Day 2 will see you transported to Naxos by speedboat. Your rental car will be waiting, so you can whisk yourself away to your luxury villa, perhaps stopping off at a beach.

You might want to devote day 3 to the beach, where the turquoise shimmer of the Naxian sea awaits. 

Naxos island, Greece © Shutterstock

Little Venice, Mykonos, Greece © Shutterstock

The pace quickens on day 4, when you could take a day trip to two contrasting islands.

Though the smallest island in the Aegean, Delos — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — was once esteemed as Greece's most sacred island.

Meanwhile, cosmopolitan Mykonos is a great place to eat, drink and make merry.

Come day 5, take time to immerse yourself in Naxos. The villages of the island’s mountainous interior brim with charm. 

Alternatively, you could take a horse-riding tour, or enjoy a culinary experience.

On your last full day on the island, explore the Small Cyclades islands on a catamaran trip. 

Charmed by the sound of discovering Naxos in style? Discover more .

Take a culinary tour to sample the island's best food © AS Food studio/Shutterstock

• Arrive in Athens, take a tour.

Day 2 

• Transfer to Naxos by speedboat.
• Overnight in your Naxos villa.
• Spend the day at the beach.
• Day trip to Delos and Mykonos.
• Explore Naxos.
• Explore the Small Cyclades on a catamaran trip. 

Acropolis, Athens © Shutterstock

To uncover Greece in scenic style, this Mainland Greece itinerary will see you stay in a secluded private villa in the stunning Southern Peloponnese .

On arrival in Athens, collect your rental car and start your self-drive trip.

After stopping to see the Corinth Canal and ancient site of Epidavros, the wonders of Nafplion await. 

One of the region’s most beautiful towns, it’s worth pausing here before pressing on to Kardamyli — your home for the next few days.

Come day 2, you might want chill by your private pool, or head to the beach.

Day 3 could see you exploring the wider Mani region, including the Caves of Diros.

After lunching in Areopoli, the clear waters of Limeni beach awaits, along with fantastic fish restaurants. 

Adventure is in store on day 4, courtesty of kayaking at the foot of the mighty Taygetus mountain.

Day 5 affords opportunities to chill in the lovely coastal village of Gythion before heading to medieval Mystras and ancient Sparta.

More ancient majesty can be experienced on day 6 if you visit the archaeological site of Ancient Messene before exploring the Messinian Olive Valley.

Inspired? Read more detail on this customisable itinerary .

 Greece is a great destination for gourmands © Pixel-Shot/Shutterstock

Statue of Leonidas of Sparta, Greece © Shutterstock

 Itinerary overview

• Arrive in Athens and drive to Kardamyli.
• Overnight in your Kardamyli villa.
• Chill by your pool or on the beach.
• Explore the Mani region.
• See the coast on a kayak tour.
• Visit Gythion, Mystras and Sparta.
• Visit Ancient Messene and the Messinian Olive Valley.

Temple of Hephaestus and the Acropolis, Athens © Shutterstock

Alternatively, if you’re not keen on planning, browse our customisable  Greece itineraries , and talk to our local  Greece travel experts .

The Rough Guides to Greece and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Greece

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Greece

• Culture and Etiquette in Greece
• Eating and drinking in Greece
• Getting around Greece: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Greece
• Travel Tips Greece for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Greece
• Crete Itinerary - how to spend 5, 7, 10 or 14 days in Crete
• How to get from Athens to Crete

Find even more inspiration here

written by Joanne Owen

updated 15.11.2023

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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7 Days in Greece: An Itinerary for the Ultimate Grecian Escape

Greece, the cradle of Western civilization and the birthplace of democracy, has long been a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its sun-kissed shores, ancient ruins, and charming villages, Greece offers a wealth of experiences that cater to every kind of traveler.

If you’re planning a trip to this enchanting country, our comprehensive 7 days in Greece itinerary will guide you through the highlights, ensuring you make the most of your time in this Mediterranean paradise.

In just one week, you’ll embark on a journey through time, exploring the ancient wonders of Athens, Delphi, and the island of Delos, and immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of Mykonos, the breathtaking beauty of Santorini, and the diverse landscapes of Crete. From the iconic Acropolis to the azure waters of the Aegean, this 7-day adventure is the perfect introduction to the rich history and culture of Greece.

Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover , or a food enthusiast, this 7 days in Greece itinerary has something for everyone. So pack your bags, dust off your sandals, and prepare to be swept away by the magic of Greece as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you’ll never forget.

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

Welcome to Athens , the vibrant capital of Greece steeped in history and pulsating with life! Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a moment to unwind from your journey. Depending on your preference, you can choose to stay in a boutique hotel in the bustling city center or a luxurious resort overlooking the Saronic Gulf.

In the afternoon, head out to explore the Plaka district, Athens’ oldest neighborhood, nestled at the foot of the Acropolis. The labyrinth of narrow, cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses is a sight to behold. Along the way, you’ll stumble upon local artisans selling handcrafted jewelry, ceramics, and textiles – perfect for picking up a unique souvenir or gift.

As you explore the charming alleys, take time to visit the 11th-century Church of Agios Nikolaos Rangavas and the Church of Metamorphosis Sotiros, both featuring beautiful Byzantine architecture. Don’t forget to visit the Anafiotika area, a tiny neighborhood reminiscent of a Cycladic island with its white-washed houses and blue doors.

Sample local delicacies from street vendors, like the popular “koulouri,” a sesame-covered bread ring, or the famous Greek souvlaki, a delicious skewer of grilled meat wrapped in pita bread. For those with a sweet tooth, indulge in “loukoumades,” deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey and dusted with cinnamon.

End your day with a sumptuous dinner at a traditional Greek taverna, where you can savor authentic dishes like moussaka (a baked eggplant and minced meat casserole), dolmades (stuffed grape leaves), and a refreshing Greek salad topped with feta cheese. Don’t forget to try “rakomelo,” a delightful warm alcoholic drink made from raki, honey, and spices.

Day 2: Explore Ancient Athens

On your second day, rise early to visit the iconic Acropolis, an ancient citadel perched on a hill overlooking the city. Beat the crowds and the heat by starting your day at the gates of this UNESCO World Heritage site as they open.

The Acropolis is home to several temples and monuments, such as the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Each structure has its own captivating story, which is best discovered with the help of a knowledgeable local guide.

The Parthenon, dedicated to the goddess Athena, is the epitome of Classical Greek architecture and a symbol of ancient Athenian power. Marvel at the remaining Doric columns and learn about the intriguing history of this monument, including the controversial removal of the Elgin Marbles.

Adjacent to the Parthenon lies the Erechtheion, an intricate temple dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. The temple’s most striking feature is the Caryatid Porch, where six statues of women, called Caryatids, serve as architectural supports.

After exploring the Acropolis, make your way to the Acropolis Museum, a world-class museum housing over 4,000 artifacts discovered on the Acropolis and its surrounding slopes. The museum’s modern architecture and thoughtful layout allow you to delve deeper into the history and significance of the artifacts, including the famous Parthenon frieze and the original Caryatids from the Erechtheion.

In the afternoon, stroll through the Ancient Agora, the heart of ancient Athens and a thriving center for commerce, politics, and social gatherings. The site is home to numerous ruins, including the remarkably well-preserved Temple of Hephaestus, dedicated to the god of metallurgy and craftsmanship.

Take a moment to explore the Stoa of Attalos, a reconstructed building housing the Museum of the Ancient Agora, which showcases an array of artifacts found at the site.

Adjacent to the Ancient Agora is the Roman Agora, built during the Roman rule of Athens. Its most notable feature is the Tower of the Winds, an octagonal structure adorned with relief sculptures depicting the eight wind gods. The tower functioned as a horologion (timekeeping device) and weather vane in ancient times.

As the sun begins to set, make your way to the Lycabettus Hill, the highest point in Athens. A funicular railway will take you to the summit, where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Acropolis. At the top, you’ll also find the 19th-century Chapel of St. George and a café to relax and take in the scenery.

Day 3: Delphi and Meteora

On day three, embark on a day trip to Delphi, the ancient center of the world, located approximately 2.5 hours away from Athens. Known as the “navel of the Earth,” Delphi was once a major religious sanctuary dedicated to the god Apollo and home to the legendary Oracle of Delphi. Wander through the ruins and marvel at the Temple of Apollo, where the Pythia, a priestess, would deliver cryptic prophecies to pilgrims and rulers.

The Sanctuary of Delphi also contains the Treasury of the Athenians, a small building that once held offerings to the gods, and the Delphi Theatre, which boasts stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the Delphi Archaeological Museum, where you’ll find the famous Charioteer of Delphi, a remarkable bronze statue from the 5th century BC.

Next, journey to Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the Thessalian plains, approximately 4 hours from Delphi. This awe-inspiring landscape is renowned for its monasteries perched atop towering rock formations. These monasteries were built by monks seeking solitude and spiritual elevation, and their otherworldly beauty attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Visit the Monastery of Great Meteoron, the largest and oldest of the monasteries, which houses a fascinating museum showcasing religious relics and manuscripts. The Monastery of Varlaam is also worth a visit for its stunning frescoes and captivating views. After exploring Meteora, return to Athens for the night, with memories of the mystical landscapes fresh in your mind.

Day 4: Island Hopping – Mykonos

Bid farewell to Athens and embark on a greek island-hopping adventure ! Your first stop is Mykonos, a cosmopolitan island famous for its picturesque windmills, vibrant nightlife, and stunning beaches. Mykonos is well-connected to Athens by ferry and flight, with the ferry ride taking approximately 2-5 hours, depending on the type of ferry you choose.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend the day lounging on the sandy shores of Elia Beach or Paradise Beach, both offering crystal-clear waters and a relaxed atmosphere. If you prefer a more secluded spot, head to the lesser-known Agios Sostis Beach or Fokos Beach, where you can bask in the sun away from the crowds.

Water sports enthusiasts can find plenty of activities in Mykonos, such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet skiing, and scuba diving. For a more laid-back experience, opt for a boat trip to the nearby uninhabited island of Delos, considered the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis, which boasts impressive archaeological sites.

As evening falls, wander through the charming streets of Mykonos Town, also known as Chora. Its white-washed buildings, colorful balconies, and narrow alleys create a picture-perfect setting. Be sure to snap a photo in front of the iconic windmills, which date back to the 16th century and have become a symbol of the island.

Little Venice, a romantic waterfront neighborhood, is the perfect place to watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand. As night envelops the island, you can choose to dance the night away in one of Mykonos’ famous clubs or enjoy a quiet dinner at a local taverna, where you can indulge in fresh seafood and locally produced wine.

Checkout our Mykonos hotel guide on the best places to stay here.

Day 5: Island Hopping – Santorini

On day five, set sail for the enchanting island of Santorini, approximately 2-3 hours away from Mykonos by ferry. With its iconic blue-domed churches, staggering cliffs, and jaw-dropping sunsets, it’s no wonder this island is a favorite among honeymooners and travel enthusiasts alike. If you have time, you can also do Santorini in 2 days .

Begin your day in the village of Oia, perched on the northern tip of the island. Meander through narrow streets lined with whitewashed buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops. Be sure to visit the Maritime Museum and the remains of Oia’s Byzantine castle for a glimpse into the island’s history.

Next, head to the archaeological site of Akrotiri, an ancient Minoan settlement preserved under volcanic ash from the eruption of Thera in 1627 BC. This “Pompeii of the Aegean” offers a fascinating insight into the advanced civilization that once thrived on the island.

For a taste of Santorini’s volcanic landscape, visit the Red Beach, named for its striking red cliffs and sand. While the beach can get crowded, its unique scenery makes it a must-see. Alternatively, take a dip in the azure waters of Perissa or Kamari Beach, both lined with black volcanic sand.

Wine lovers shouldn’t miss the chance to visit one of Santorini’s famous wineries, such as Santo Wines or Venetsanos Winery. Learn about the island’s unique vine cultivation methods and sample the local wines, including the crisp Assyrtiko and the sweet Vinsanto.

Finish your day with a dinner at one of the cliffside restaurants in Fira or Oia, where you can savor delicious Greek cuisine as the sun sinks into the horizon, painting the sky in brilliant shades of pink and orange.

Be sure to take a look at our recommendations for the best hotels in Santorini .

Day 6: Island Hopping – Crete

Your final island destination is Crete, the largest and most diverse of the Greek islands. Known for its rich history, rugged landscapes, and unique local culture, Crete is a treasure trove of experiences. The ferry from Santorini to Crete takes approximately 2-4 hours, depending on the type of ferry.

Upon arrival, make your way to the picturesque city of Chania, where you can wander the Venetian harbor and explore the old town’s winding alleyways. Stroll along the waterfront and visit the 16th-century Venetian Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the harbor. History buffs will appreciate the Archaeological Museum of Chania, housed in a former Venetian church, which contains artifacts dating back to the Neolithic period.

Next, visit the ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos, a fascinating archaeological site that dates back to the Bronze Age. Knossos was once the ceremonial and political center of the Minoan civilization and is closely associated with Greek mythology, particularly the legend of the Minotaur and the story of Theseus.

A guided tour of the site will help you understand the significance of its frescoes, storerooms, and throne room, as well as the role of the palace in Minoan society.

In the afternoon, head to the Samaria Gorge, Europe’s longest gorge and a hiker’s paradise. Located in the heart of the White Mountains, the gorge is part of the Samaria National Park, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the endangered Cretan wild goat, known as the kri-kri.

The full hike through the gorge is approximately 16km and takes between 5-7 hours to complete. This challenging trek rewards you with stunning landscapes, from rugged cliffs and lush forests to crystal-clear rivers and ancient stone bridges.

If you prefer a shorter walk, consider the Imbros Gorge, a smaller but equally beautiful gorge located near the village of Imbros. The 8km hike takes about 2-3 hours to complete and offers a more leisurely experience.

After your hike, reward yourself with a hearty Cretan meal at a local taverna. Crete’s cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, local ingredients, with dishes such as dakos (a barley rusk topped with tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives), horta (wild greens sautéed in olive oil and lemon), and lamb cooked in a wood-fired oven.

Check out our Crete hotel guide if you’re looking for the best places to stay on the island.

Day 7: Return to Athens and Departure

On your final day of your 7 days in Greece, return to Athens via a short flight or ferry ride. If time permits, spend a few hours exploring any attractions you may have missed earlier in your trip. The National Archaeological Museum, one of the most important museums in Greece, houses a vast collection of artifacts from prehistoric times to late antiquity, including the golden mask of Agamemnon and the famous Antikythera mechanism.

The Panathenaic Stadium, originally built in 330 BC and reconstructed in 1896 for the first modern Olympic Games, is another must-see site. This impressive all-marble stadium can seat 50,000 spectators and offers an insight into the ancient tradition of athletic competitions.

The Temple of Olympian Zeus, once the largest temple in Greece, is another notable attraction. Although only a few columns remain standing, the sheer size of the ruins is a testament to the grandeur of the original structure, which was dedicated to the king of the gods.

Finally, savor your last taste of Greece with a farewell meal at a local taverna or a rooftop restaurant with views of the Acropolis. Reminisce on the memories you’ve made during your 7-day adventure, from the ancient wonders of Athens to the stunning sunsets of Santorini.

As it’s time to head to the airport for your departure, bid Greece a heartfelt “antío” (goodbye) and leave with the knowledge that you’ve experienced the best of what this enchanting country has to offer.

7 Days in Greece Conclusion

This 7 days in Greece itinerary offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation, taking you on a whirlwind tour of the country’s most iconic sites and breathtaking islands. From the ancient wonders of Athens and Delphi to the pristine beaches of Mykonos and the dramatic landscapes of Santorini, this journey will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for Greece’s rich heritage.

As you depart, you’ll undoubtedly carry a piece of Greece with you, from the warmth of its people to the magic of its sunsets. And while this 7-day adventure may have come to an end, the memories and experiences you’ve collected along the way will surely inspire future travels to this enchanting land.

Perhaps, on your next visit, you’ll have the opportunity to delve deeper into the country’s off-the-beaten-path destinations or immerse yourself in local customs and traditions. But for now, let the spirit of Greece, its stories, and its beauty, live on in your heart and mind, serving as a constant reminder that there is always more to discover in this captivating land of gods and heroes.

So, until we meet again, Greece – fare thee well, and may the gods smile upon you always!

**Please note that this post may contain affiliate links. When booking through one of our links, we earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running.

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Museum of Wander

Greece in 7 Days: Itinerary Ideas for Island Hopping & Mainland Road Trips for Every Type of Traveller.

So many places, so little time. Relax, we’ve rounded up the best 7-day Greece itineraries for you right here. You can thank us later

One week in Greece is just a short time, but sometimes that is all you have. But you can still have a perfect time in Greece, seeing the incredible sights and relaxing too in only one week. With over two hundred islands and the tantalising mainland, a 7-day itinerary in Greece leaves you with many wonderful possibilities when visiting the country.

With a bit of planning your 7-day itinerary, Greece will wow you with timeless whitewashed villages, exciting cities, heavenly islands with even heavenlier beaches, ancient sites galore, natural wonders, some of the best museums in Europe , incredible Mediterranean cuisine, friendly people and much, much more.

We only had a week when we travelled to Greece and we had a great time. This post shows you how we spent our seven days in Greece. But why stop there? We also asked ten other Greek travel experts how they would spend a week in Greece.

The result is the best 7-day itinerary Greece offers from 10 unique points of view. Whether you’re dreaming of jumping on a ferry to go island hopping or hitting the road on a mainland road trip, we’ve got you covered.

Please note: This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you).

Milos, Santorini & Athens: The Slow & High Life

We split our week in Greece between Milos and Santorini , two very different islands, allowing us to experience the beautiful diversity of the Greek Islands. Milos is known for its spectacular beaches and rustic life, while Santorini is just over the top wow from the moment when you arrive. Before heading home, we spent a day in Athens, goggling at its incredible ancient sites and funky neighbourhoods.

Day1-3 Milos

Head straight from the airport to Piraeus to get a ferry to Adamas on Milos. Three daily ferries get you from Pireaus to Milos in about 3.5 hours. Base yourself in beautiful Adamas, rent a scooter or car and explore the villages and beaches of Milos over the next few days.

Best things to do in Milos:

• Stay at Dionysis Studios in Adamas
• Swim at the stunning beaches ( Don’t miss Sarakiniko and Firapotamos beaches)
• Go on a yacht cruise to the stunning Kleftiko with its glassy water
• Wander around the whitewashed maze of Plaka village
• Climb to the top of the Kastro for a panoramic view of the Gulf of Milos
• Have dinner at the waterfront tavernas in Adamas

Day 4-6 Santorini

Get the early morning ferry from Adamas to Santorini and arrive around lunchtime. Head to the dreamy village of Oia to live in a fairy tale for the next few days. Splurge and stay at the best place within your budget – it’s a bucket list destination and if you’re only going to be here once, make the most of it. We stayed at the INCREDIBLE Nostos Apartments right on the caldera’s edge, and believe us when we say it’s pure magic.

Best things to do in Santorini:

• Close your mouth from hanging open (insects might fly in). It’s an utterly surreal and beautiful place
• Rent an ATV for a trip around the island, visiting the settlements of Fira and Pyrgos and Perissa and Perivolos beaches, among others.
• Watch the sunset from Kastro restaurant in Oia
• Just be – stroll around, stay in the pool all day

Day 7 – Athens

Fly back to Athens from Santorini. With only one day in Athens, prioritise visiting the Acropolis and its excellent museum. After that, enjoy your last day in Greece, strolling around touristy Plaka, eating gyros and souvlaki, and cheers with an ouzo or two to a beautiful vacation.

Best things to do in Athens:

• Stay at this apartment with a stunning view of the Acropolis
• See the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum
• Watch the changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• Shop for secondhand goodies and souvenirs at Monastiraki market
• Stroll around the neighbourhoods of Makrigianni and Plaka

The Dazzling Ionian Islands of Kefalonia & Zakynthos

The verdant Ionian Islands off Greece’s west coast are blessed with stunning beaches and beautiful towns. Those looking for beautiful islands for a Greek vacation will love Kefalonia and Zakynthos. In summer, both Kefalonia and Zakynthos have direct daily flights to major European cities, allowing you to bypass Athens and head straight to the beach.

Day 1-4: Kefalonia

The island of Kefalonia is brimming with sights and scenery, and it’s not as crowded as some of the other Greek islands like Santorini. It’s a relatively large island, so you’ll want to spend at least three or four days exploring everything.

Best things to do in Kefalonia:

• Base yourself in the beautiful town of Argostoli and book into the Argostoli Marina Suites .
• See the amazing Melissani cave and Drogarati cave. The former (Melissani) has an underground lake which you can tour with a short paddleboat trip. It’s unique and beautiful.
• Relax at the family-friendly Antisamos beach. It’s easy to reach from the town of Sami, and there are plenty of amenities. The water is clear and great for swimming!
• See the Myrtos viewpoint and beach. This is a spectacular roadside viewpoint with amazing scenery above Myrtos Beach, a white pebble beach surrounded by cliffs on all sides.

Day 5-7: Zakynthos

Catch the regular ferry from Kefalonia to Zakynthos island. This island is mainly known for the famous shipwreck at Navagio beach, but there are also many other good things to see and do.

Best things to do in Zakynthos:

• Visit the Navagio viewpoint. See the picturesque shipwreck and take pictures from above. It’s one of the most famous travel photos in the world!
• Zante Nest Studios is a great place to stay near Shipwreck Beach
• Go to Navagio Beach by boat. This is another popular activity in Zakynthos because you can see the rusty shipwreck up close.
• Drive to Agios Nikolaos harbour and go on a boat tour to the Blue Caves for scenery and swimming. The water is a stunning turquoise colour!

Contributed by David & Intan of The World Travel Guy

Mainland Roadtrip: Monasteries, Nature & Villages

This one-week itinerary takes you off the typical tourist trail and covers some fantastic lesser-known destinations in central and northwestern Greece. It’s the perfect itinerary for those that enjoy spending time in nature, want to learn about the history and discover the authentic side of Greece.

Day 1-3: Meteora

Meteora is a fascinating UNESCO-listed region in central Greece. Known for its towering rock formations and the mysterious monasteries built on top of them, it’s a place that looks like it belongs in a fantasy movie. Even if you’re not particularly interested in visiting religious sites, there are plenty of exciting  things to do in Meteora . 

You can take a train or drive to get to Meteora from Athens. 

Best things to do in Meteora:

• Go hiking among the cliffs of Meteora
• Visit the six medieval monasteries
• Discover the towns of Kalambaka and Kastraki
• Spartacus House in the village of Kastraki is within walking distance from the Monastery of Saint Nikolaos Anapafsas, and comes highly recommended.

Day 4-5: Vikos Gorge

Catch a bus or drive northwest to Vikos Gorge, one of Greece’s most impressive natural wonders. Also known as the Grand Canyon of Greece, this gorge has a depth of 1,000 meters and offers excellent hiking opportunities and jaw-dropping views.

Best things to do at Vikos Gorge:

• Hike through Vikos Gorge
• Visit Beloi viewpoint
• Visit Oxya viewpoint
• Rustic and homey, Orestis House is where to spend two nights in Vikos Gorge and explore the Zagori villages in the coming two days.

Day 6-7: Zagori villages

Around Vikos Gorge, in the region of Zagori, there are numerous picturesque stone villages worth a visit. With their traditional houses, authentic tavernas and laid-back atmosphere, the villages will make you feel like you’ve taken a journey back in time.

Since Zagori is quite a remote region, renting a car is the best way to explore it.

Best things to do in and around the Zagori villages:

• Visit the villages of Megalo Papingo and Monodendri
• Explore the old arched stone bridges
• Swim in Papingo rock pools

Fly back to Athens from Ioannina Airport.

Contributed by Marjut from The Smooth Escape

Athens, Paros & Antiparos: Big City-Small Islands

Combining the diverse landscape on the mainland with the uniqueness of the islands, the delicious traditional gastronomy and the Mediterranean climate that Greece has to offer, a one-week itinerary to Athens, Paros, and Antiparos will give you a glimpse of the beauty of Greece. 

Day 1-2: Athens

One of the oldest cities in Europe,  Athens has much to offer  apart from its rich history. The ultimate symbol of the ancient Greek civilisation, the Acropolis of Athens stands out among the city’s highlights. Spend two days in Athens to experience the vibrant capital of Greece.

• Visit the Parthenon on the Acropolis Hill. 
• Visit the New Acropolis Museum.
• Visit the Ancient Agora.
• Climb up to Areopagus Hill for jaw-dropping views of the city.
• Enjoy lunch, dinner, or drink at one of the traditional restaurants along the Plaka stairs.

Day 3-6: Paros

Take the ferry from Piraeus to Paros Island for the next three days of your trip. Paros is one of the most beautiful islands of the Cyclades, and it’s an island that has something for everyone. Easy-going vibes for families, vibrant nightlife for the party seekers, wind-surfing for the adventurous ones, quaint villages for the dreamers, and pristine beaches for everyone.

Villa Isabela overlooking Piperi Beach in Naoussa Bay is just grand for a few days in Paros.

• Wander around Lefkes Village.
• Visit Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church in Parikia.
• Swim around the spectacular rock formations at Kolympithres Beach.
• Taste traditionally made wine at one of the oldest wineries in Paros.
• Watch the sunset at the quaint Old Port in Naoussa.

Day 7: Antiparos

Often overshadowed by Paros, Antiparos is a small island next to Paros, ideal for those who want to experience the authentic Greek summer. Quaint narrow alleys lined by whitewashed houses with blue doors and windows adorned by colourful bougainvillaeas create a dreamy setting that could only be found on a Greek Island. To get to Antiparos, you must take the ferry from Pounta Port in Paros. The ferry ride takes less than ten minutes.

Treat yourself and stay at the dreamy Kameo in Agios Georgios for a night (and then prepare yourself to extend your stay indefinitely)

• Stroll around the Venetian Castle of Antiparos.
• Enjoy the sunset at Sifneiko Beach.
• Visit Antiparos Cave.
• Mingle with locals at the Antiparos main square at night.

Contributed by Katerina from It’s All Trip To Me

One Week in Crete

A week on the Greek Island of Crete will certainly never get boring. The island is full of rich history, beautiful beaches, and some of the most rugged landscapes in the Mediterranean. 

This itinerary gives you a taste of everything that makes Crete special. You can fly directly to Crete from many European cities or take a ferry from Athens. 

Day 1-3 – Chania

Chania is a charming, Venetian-style city with a lively harbour, shopping, and the best restaurants on the island. Stay at the charming Santrivani Rooms in Chania Old Town while exploring this part of the island. 

Best Things to Do in Chania

• Wander through Old Town
• Sunbathe at Stavros Beach (Zorba’s Beach)  
• Take a Boat to Balos Beach & Gramvousa Island
• Eat Mousakka at Enetikon Restaurant
• Go Hiking in the Samaria Gorge

Day 4-5 – Plakias 

You can get from Chania to Plakias by bus, but most rent a car. Plakias is a small beach town close to the most dramatic coastline and one of the top destinations in Crete.

Best Things to Do in Plakias

• Have gyros at a beachfront tavern
• Relax at Preveli Palm Forest
• Drive through Kourtaliotiko Gorge
• Go Snorkeling at Kalypso Bay
• Stay at Calma Apartments , 150 m away from Plakias Beach

Day 6-7 – Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is the capital of Lasithi (Eastern Crete). The scenic city is an ideal place to end your trip to Crete. The port town is peaceful yet close to the bustling city of Heraklion, pristine beaches, and several historical sites. You can get here from Plakias by car or taxi or take a bus (with a transfer in Heraklion).

In Agios Nikolaos, St. Nicolas Soho Apartments has a prime location and is centrally located to the beaches Ammos, Ammoudi and Almiros Beaches.

Best Things to Do in Agios Nikolaos

• Take a Ferry to Spinolonga
• Have drinks with a view at Migomis Piano Restaurant
• Spend the afternoon at Voulisma Beach
• Visit the Ancient Minoan Palace of Knossos

Fly back from Heraklion Airport, which is well connected with Athens and the rest of Europe.

Contributed by Caleb from Pazook Travel Journal

The Mainland’s Famous Ancient Sites & Pretty Coastal Villages

This mainland Greece itinerary focuses on the Peloponnese, allowing you to see some famous ancient sites and pretty coastal villages before heading to the beautiful ruins of Delphi. This route is best done as a road trip, allowing you to stop at interesting places along the way.

Day 1-2 Athens

The capital of Greece is the perfect place to start your trip, and it’s worth spending at least a day here. I suggest spending a few days there either at the start or the end of your trip.

• See the Acropolis and the Parthenon
• Marvel at the treasures at the National Archaeological Museum
• Go shopping and visit the museum quarter in Kolonáki
• Climb up Mount Lycabettus for views of the city

Day 3-4: Nafplio

From Athens, head toward  Nafplio , a pretty coastal town in the Peloponnese, stopping at the Corinth Canal and the Theatre of Epidaurus along the way.

Best things to do in Nafplio:

• Stay in an old mansion in an alley under the Palamidi Castle
• Take a boat ride to the Bourtzi, the fortress in the harbour
• Admire the views from the Palamidi Castle
• Walk along the coast to Karathona Beach
• Sample local spirits at the Karonis Distillery

Day 5-6 Nafpaktos

The drive from Nafplio to Nafpatkos takes just over two hours along the Gulf of Corinth. Nafpaktos is another beautiful coastal town which is off the radar for many travellers.

Best things to do in Nafpaktos:

• Explore the medieval old town
• Walk around the ancient Venetian port
• Climb up to the Castle of Nafpaktos
• Visit the Turkish Mosque of Fethiye Tzami, built in 1499
• Stay at Porto Enetiko for its central location and beautiful views of the Old Port

Drive to Delphi

Day 7 Delphi

Visit the Sanctuary of Apollo at Delphi early in the morning to avoid the crowds. The ancient sanctuary is one of Greece’s most remarkable ancient sites and was home to the Oracle of Apollo. The cheapest place to stay in Delphi, the Sibylla Hotel , is within walking distance from the archaeological site and museum, has free parking and has friendly owners.

Best things to do in Delphi:

• See the statues in the Delphi Museum
• Explore the ancient ruins before the crowds
• Admire the views from the mountain.

Drive back to Athens.

Contributed by Roxanne from Faraway Worlds

Island Hopping Itinerary from Athens: Ios & Santorini

You’ll likely land at Athens International Airport if you arrive from outside Europe. That’s why this 7-day itinerary in Greece starts in the capital and visits two gorgeous Cycladic Islands: Ios and Santorini.

On this 7-day Greece itinerary, you check out the historical sites in Athens, bask in the sunshine on the beaches in Ios, and visit the world-famous Oia village on Santorini.

Day 1-3 Athens

The cradle of democracy and Western civilization, Greece’s capital, is particularly well-known for its many historical sites. You can surely enjoy  many of them during your stay in Athens .

• Visit the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum
• Visit the Greek Agora
• See Athens from a different perspective from Lycabettus Hill
• Shop for bargains at Monastiraki Flea Market
• Watch the sunset from Cape Sounion (a half-day trip from Athens)
• Eat lunch at a taverna in the Central Municipal Athens Market (Varvakeios Agora)
• Sip a coffee in the National Gardens

Day 4-5 Ios

The only way to get to Ios is by boat. During the high season, there are quite a few daily ferry departures from Athens’ Piraeus port to Ios port, both on high-speed vessels and slow ferries. During the low season, you are limited to just two daily sailings. The sailing time is about 5 hours on the high-speed boat and up to 11 hours on the slow one.

A popular party island, Ios offers a different experience outside the peak summer months. Ios is a great place to visit in the shoulder season (April-June / September -October). You won’t be bored here if you want to soak up the sun on a beach, snorkel, hike, or visit historical sites.

Best things to do on Ios:

• Visit the Bronze Age settlement of Skarkos
• Visit the Venetian fortress of Paleokastro
• Eat lunch at the taverna on Psathi beach
• Have dinner at the Octopus Tree
• Soak up the sun at Mylopotas beach
• Hike from Mylopotas beach to Klima beach and have a picnic on the beach
• Watch the sunset from the Gaitis museum

Day 6-7 Santorini

Santorini is, without a doubt, the most well-known Cycladic Island. The whitewashed houses, blue shutters, black and red sand beaches, and gorgeous sunsets make it a must-visit place.

Especially if you are already so close to it! The slow ferry from Ios takes about 1.5 hours and is available several times a week, even during the low season. There are up to three sailings per day during the high season, and you can also choose high-speed vessels.

Unfortunately, you can’t visit Santorini on a day trip from Ios, so you’ll need to plan for an overnight.

 Best things to do in Santorini:

• Visit the archaeological site of Akrotiri
• Soak up the sun at the Red Beach of Santorini
• Watch the sunset from Oia
• Have lunch with a view at one of the tavernas at Korfos

An airport also serves Santorini, so you can return to Athens by air. Even during the low season, there are several flights each day. They increase significantly during the summer. The flight time is just under an hour.

Contributed by Cristina from LooknWalk Greece 

See Ancient Greece on this Peloponnese Road Trip

One of Europe’s best road trips is a  drive around Greece’s Peloponnese peninsula . Take a tour through ancient Greek history with stops at some of the world’s most famous archaeological sites while stopping in beautiful beach towns and quaint medieval villages. So pick up that rental car from the airport, and let’s get going.

Day 1:  Assuming you’ve spent the night in Athens, awake early and drive to the archaeological site of Mycenae, a sprawling city from 1350 BC. In the afternoon, head west on the highway to Olympia. Book into Pension Posidon for the night.

Day 2:  Spend the morning running around the birthplace of the Olympics before heading back east towards the ancient Village of Mystras, nestled in the mountains outside of Sparta, home of the ancient Spartans. Spend your night in Mystras at the exceptional Mazaraki Guesthouse .

Day 3:  Explore the Mystras monastery complex, one of the best-kept secrets on the Peloponnese. If you have time, stop by ancient Sparta on the way out of town. Then head south to the picturesque coastal village of Limeni, where you’ll relax and spend the night at the Vasilios Hotel .

Day 4:  Explore the Mani Peninsula. Stop by the Caves of Dilos and the ghost town of Vathia before making your way back to Limeni.

Day 5:  Drive along the stunning Peloponnese coast to the car-free medieval village of Monemvasia, one of the most beautiful places in all of Greece – where you’ll spend the afternoon and evening wishing you had more time to add onto your road trip. Stay at the beautiful Ardamis , set in a historic stone building just metres from the beach.

Day 6:  Spend the morning in Monemvasia. Have lunch at a charming cafe before exiting the city walls back to your car and driving north to Nafplio. Climb the mountain to the Fortress of Palamini and enjoy a walk around the city.

Day 7:  Enjoy breakfast on the coast before the short drive to Epidaurus, which holds Greece’s largest and best-preserved ancient amphitheatre. Return to Athens and tell your friends to book their Peloponnese road trip NOW!

Contributed by Chris from Around the World With Me

Piraeus, Mykonos & Naxos

The Piraeus- Mykonos- Naxos route is a fabulous one-week island-hopping itinerary for Greece. First, you will experience local life in the harbour town of Piraeus. Next, ferry to Mykonos, one of the most famous jet-set islands in Greece, with world-famous beach clubs and vibrant nightlife. Finally, head off to Naxos, an enchanting island gem with stunning sandy beaches and quaint mountain villages.

Day 1 Piraeus

Piraeus is the port of Athens, where the ferries to the islands depart from. However, only some people know Piraeus is worth exploring before jumping on the ferry. So, stay the night at the Piraeus Port Hotel and explore the harbour of Athens before sailing off to the islands.

Best thing to do in Piraeus:

• Explore the Piraeus Archaeological Museum
• Enjoy dinner at the port of Mikrolimano
• Visit the unique Electric Railway Museum of Piraeus
• Watch a football match at the famous Karaiskakis Stadium

Day 2-4: Mykonos

Take the ferry from Piraeus to Mykonos. This operates twice daily and the crossing takes around 4 hours. There are so many  things to do in Mykonos . This island not only has gorgeous beaches but also the nightlife is legendary. Don`t miss Mykonos Town with the famous Windmills of Mykonos.

With a heavenly outdoor pool, free parking, included buffet breakfast, and an onsite restaurant, Bianco a Nero is where you want to stay near Super Paradise Beach.

The best thing to do in Mykonos:

• Swim at the beach
• Take a boat trip to the island of Delos
• Take a photo at the famous windmills
• Drink ouzo overlooking the sea in Little Venice
• Have the party of your life at Paradise Beach

Day 5-7 Naxos

A 1-hour ferry ride will take you from Mykonos to the island of Naxos. Naxos is a real highlight of the Cyclades and is fascinating in many ways. The Chora is beautiful, the beaches are top-notch, and the hinterland with the mountains and the quaint villages is to fall in love with.

Iliada Studios offers fantastic sea views and sunsets and is just far enough away from the hotspots of the Chora.

The best thing to do on Naxos:

• Explore the Chora and enjoy the most stunning sunset from the Temple of Apollo.
• Swim at the beautiful beaches of Naxos
• Take a tour by quad bike to the villages of Halki, Filoti and Apiranthos
• Hike Zeus mountain, the highest mountain of the Cyclades

Contributed by Martina from Places of Juma

Crete & Santorini

One week is just enough time to get a taste of Crete, the largest island in Greece, before getting the ferry to uber-popular-for-a-reason Santorini. You’ll swim at stunning beaches, explore ancient archaeological sites and bask in Santorini’s beauty.

Days 1-4 Crete

Crete is likely the most underrated Greek island. As the largest Greek island, there is something for everyone. On Crete, you can find amazing sunsets, delicious wines, delicious traditional Greek cuisine, and plenty of natural wonders. During a few days in Crete, you can explore beautiful beaches, go for a hike or explore ancient ruins. 

Crete is more affordable than the other famous islands, offering visitors excellent value for money. 

Best things to do in Crete

• Visit the pink sand Elafonisi Beach
• Take a boat to Spinalonga Island, a former leper colony with an ancient past.
• Visit the Venetian Harbour in Chania
• Hike the Samaria Gorge

Days 5-7 Santorini

Santorini  is probably the most well-known Greek Island, and it is easy to see why with its sheer cliffs, deep blue waters, and whitewashed houses. A high-speed ferry will take you from Crete to Santorini in under two hours. 

What really stands out in Santorini is the sunset. You can see it from anywhere along the island’s western side, even though most travel guides will tell you to go to Oia, the most crowded part of the island. Instead, enjoy it from one of the other towns, the lighthouse, or a catamaran on the water below. 

Best things to do in Santorini

• Go on a sunset Catamaran tour with snorkelling and a volcano visit. 
• Book a sunrise photoshoot
• See the sunset from the town of Imerovigli
• Stroll around Oia and see the iconic blue-domed churches

Contributed by Dan from Honeymoon Always

The Classic First Time Greece Itinerary: Athens, Mykonos & Santorini

A week in Greece is the perfect opportunity to explore some of the world’s most beautiful historical sites and natural landscapes. Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini are gorgeous destinations because of their architecture, beaches, and blue waters. These three coveted places offer a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration while tasting Greece’s vibrant culture. You won’t have to choose between  Santorini or Mykonos  because you can visit both islands in one week!

Days 1-2: Athens

You’ll start this itinerary in Athens, the capital of Greece. Athens is Greece’s historical and cultural centre and is home to many ancient ruins and museums. In fact, Athens is Europe’s oldest city, and it’s fascinating to see how the city has maintained its heritage while becoming a modern metropolis.

• Visit the Acropolis, one of the most famous landmarks in Europe
• Learn about Greek history at the Acropolis Museum
• Explore one of Athens’ bustling areas, Plaka
• Marvel at the Panathenaic Stadium
• Hike or take a funicular to the top of Mount Lycabettus
• Eat souvlaki at Kostas

Days 3-4: Mykonos

After Athens, you’ll take a ferry to the island of Mykonos. This Cycladic island is well-known for its beautiful beaches, trendy nightlife, and stunning whitewashed architecture. Mykonos is the perfect place to explore and soak up the Greek sun.

Best things to do in Mykonos:

• Visit the Windmills
• Take a boat ride to the nearby island of Delos
• Relax on one of Mykonos’ many beaches
• Explore the town of Chora
• Rent an ATV and explore the island
• Shop for souvenirs in Little Venice

Days 5-7: Santorini

Santorini is the final stop on this one-week Greece itinerary, and you’ll take a ferry from Mykonos. This volcanic island is famous for its stunning cliffside towns, black sand beaches, and breathtaking views. Santorini is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the incredible scenery.

• Take photos with the famous Blue Domes
• Watch the sunset in Oia
• Take a boat tour around the island
• Visit the town of Thira
• Go on a wine tour

Fly back to Athens.

Contributed by Disha from Disha Discovers

And that, people, is how you spend a week in Greece! Don’t say we never give you nothing for free ✌️

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Greece The perfect 7 days itinerary

Greece, a country in southeastern Europe, is known for its rich history, beautiful islands, and vibrant culture. It's the birthplace of democracy, Western philosophy, the Olympic Games, and much more. From the ancient ruins in Athens to the stunning beaches of the Greek Islands, there's something for everyone in Greece. Let's dive into the itinerary for your 7-day trip to this fascinating country.

What to do in Greece?

This 7 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Greece. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.

Day 1: Discovering Athens: Ancient History and Modern Vibrancy

Start your day with a visit to the Acropolis , an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens . Explore the Parthenon , the Erechtheion , and the Temple of Athena Nike .

Visit the Acropolis Museum , which houses the artifacts found on the rock and on the surrounding slopes of the Acropolis . Later, stroll around the Plaka , a historic neighborhood of Athens .

Enjoy a traditional Greek meal at a taverna in the Plaka .

Day 2: Exploring More of Athens

Visit the National Archaeological Museum , which houses some of the most important artifacts from a variety of archaeological locations around Greece.

Explore the Ancient Agora , a former marketplace and gathering place in ancient Athens . Visit the Temple of Hephaestus , the best-preserved ancient Greek temple.

Enjoy a sunset view from the Lycabettus Hill , the highest point in Athens .

Day 3: Day Trip to Delphi

Morning and Afternoon

Take a day trip to Delphi , an ancient city that was considered the center of the world in classical Greek mythology. Explore the Temple of Apollo , the ancient theater, and the Delphi Archaeological Museum .

Return to Athens and relax.

Day 4: Off to the Greek Islands: First Stop, Mykonos

Take a ferry from Athens to Mykonos , a popular island known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.

Explore the town of Mykonos , with its iconic windmills and white-washed houses. Visit the Panagia Paraportiani , a beautiful church complex.

Enjoy the nightlife in Mykonos Town.

Day 5: Exploring More of Mykonos

Spend the day at one of Mykonos ' beautiful beaches. Try water sports or simply relax and enjoy the sun.

Enjoy a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Day 6: Next Stop: Santorini

Take a ferry from Mykonos to Santorini , an island known for its stunning sunsets and white-washed houses with blue domes.

Explore the town of Fira , the capital of Santorini . Visit the Archaeological Museum of Thera .

Enjoy the famous sunset in Oia , a picturesque village on the island.

Day 7: Last Day in Santorini

Visit the ancient city of Akrotiri , a Minoan Bronze Age settlement that was preserved in volcanic ash. Spend the rest of the day at the Red Beach , one of the most famous and beautiful beaches of Santorini .

Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local taverna.

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Island Hopping in Greece: The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary

We can think of nothing more dreamy than a vacation in the Cyclades, island hopping around some of Greece’s most iconic isles renowned as much for their beauty as for their individual character—Mykonos with its blue-domed churches and celeb-heavy beach parties, Santorini with its cliffside hotels and romantic caldera views, Milos with its sea caves and painted fishermen's houses. See it all on this perfect 7-day Greek islands vacation itinerary.

See recent posts by Lane Nieset

Days 1–2: Mykonos and Delos

The jet-set island of Mykonos might be best known for its swanky beach bars and see-and-be-seen restaurants, but the capital’s winding marble streets and historic windmills offer just as much charm. Get your bearings in Mykonos Town by exploring its maze-like lanes lined with churches and purple-hued bougainvillea trees, then stop for a shopping spree on Matoyánni Street, one of the island’s most famous strips. When you’re feeling peckish, take a seat at the newest outpost of Athens organic hotspot, Nice n Easy , and dig into Cycladic sea urchin or traditional moussaka on the open terrace facing the sea.

Days can easily turn into nights on Mykonos. Start with cocktails at Nammos on the sands of Psarou (the island’s most famous beach), where even the sun beds are designer (think mattresses from luxury Italian clothier Loro Piana). Be on the lookout: the haute dining scene here is known to draw its fair share of A-listers like Leonardo DiCaprio. For something a little more low-key, try Nesaea on Kalafatis Beach, a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up deconstructed Greek staples with ingredients sourced across the islands. When you’re ready to call it a night, fall asleep to views of Psarou from your villa at Mykonos Blu , a whitewashed, cubist-style hotel whose private infinity pools extend over the Aegean.

Explore More: See all Mykonos, Greece hotels

Photos courtesy of Nice N Easy

Start your second day in the birthplace of the immortals by jetting over to the archeological sites on the island of Delos, just a 30-minute boat ride away. The entire island, whose ancient streets are lined with temples and Greek antiquities, is like an alfresco museum and a must-visit for history buffs. Spend the rest of the day beach hopping by private yacht, anchoring at minimalist-chic beach bar Panormos Beach , known for its freshly-made ceviche made with fish caught just off the coast. Alemàgou , in Ftelia, is another rugged beach bar that resembles Mexico more than Mykonos: its thatched-roof sun beds dot the shore, and DJs narrate the scene from a seaside stage. When the sun starts to set, make your way to Ornos Beach and sit along the shore under twinkling lanterns at Kuzina , an open-air restaurant serving up Asian-influenced Greek fare (olive-and-feta-cheese-mousse-stuffed dumplings; salmon filet with soy sauce and ginger), before bopping back to Mykonos.

See All Hotels in Mykonos

Days 3–4: Santorini

After one final lazy breakfast at Mykonos Blu , hop on the high-speed ferry, which travels from Mykonos to Santorini in less than three hours. Begin the afternoon at what, according to locals, is the island’s best beach bar— Theros Wave Bar at Vlychada Beach —and stay for sunset to admire the view of the sea and distant cliffs. For dinner, it’s off to the capital of Fira to feast on moussaka soufflé and veal cheeks with tzatziki cheesecake at Koukoumavlos , housed in an 18th-century sea captain’s home. While the food here earns rave reviews, it’s the terrace, with its vistas of the Santorini volcano and caldera, that’s the true showstopper. For a signature Santorini experience, check into one of the cave homes, or any of the island’s fabulous cliffside hotels. Our pick: Katikies Hotel for its bright-white rooms and stunning infinity pool.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Santorini, Greece hotels

Photos courtesy of Koukoumavlos Restaurant

One of the best ways to get a sense of Santorini’s varied landscape is from the water, during a caldera cruise through hidden coves and hot springs. Hop on a catamaran tour  to pass by sites like the volcanic island of Thirassia—a time-trapped version of Santorini—and the Efta Pedes church, built inside a cliffside cave along Mouzakia Bay. If you really want to escape the crowds that cram the streets of Fira and Oia (especially come July), opt for lunch at Mesa Pigadia by Akro , a secluded restaurant housed in a cave with a private beach just below. Squeeze in a bit of shopping between beach visits at boutiques like Under a Fig Tree , whose collection spotlights Greek designers, or any branch of Ammos , which stocks everything from Missoni dresses to Mykonian towels. Another don’t-miss is Ilias Lalaounis , in Fira, whose handmade gold Greek jewelry takes inspiration from the styles of ancient civilizations.

See All Hotels in Santorini

Photos by Antonis Eleftherakis

Photos courtesy of Under a Fig Tree Boutique and Ilias Lalaounis

Santorini’s postcard-perfect village of Oia, with its blue domed churches and white cave homes, is the perfect place to spend the evening. Pop in for a drink at Hassapiko , an Oia institution that’s housed in a former butcher shop and referred to by locals as “Marikey’s bar.” For dinner, request a seat on the terrace at Metaxy Mas in the untouched farming village of Exo Gonia. Its old stone cottage-turned-tavern is tucked behind the church of Agios Charalambos, one of the largest churches on Santorini with a unique red-tile roof. After dinner, taxi back over to Oia and tuck into one of 27 suites at Andronis Luxury Suites , whose cave-live rooms come with beds raised on stone platforms and outdoor plunge pools.

RELATED: The 10 Most Beautiful Cliffside Hotels in the World

Day 5: Milos

It’s early to rise this morning for the two-hour-long ferry to Milos—you’ll want to be on the island well before lunch time. Once you’re there, make your way to the northeast part of the island for a dip off the shores of Sarakiniko, one of the area’s most photographed beaches owing to its lunar-like white rocks that rise out of the jewel-colored sea (Warning: most of Milos’s best beaches and coves can’t be reached by land). Set up a private charter with Travelive and sail around the cove of Kleftiko, a former pirate hideout where you can swim and dive for urchins. Back on land, stroll around the maze-like pedestrian streets of Plaka, the island’s capital, which sits 700 feet above sea level. Here, you can soak up views of the sunset while indulging in traditional homemade sweets like baklava (a honey-and-nut-filled pastry layered with flaky phyllo dough) from family-run Kivotos ton Gefseon. For dinner, make the quick trip over to Barriello in the center of the Trypiti town square. The sweeping views across the bay are worth a visit alone, but we also love the soulful Mediterranean dishes like farm rabbit marinated in Cretan wine and lentil salad with lime and orange. After all that sightseeing, rest your feet in one of the 15 sea-facing suites at Melian Boutique Hotel & Spa , done up with handmade furniture and local art.

Explore More: See all Pollonia, Milos hotels

Day 6: Paros and Antiparos

Paros is often described as a smaller version of Mykonos, but the island has a character all its own. After the ferry ride from Milos (which clocks in at just under four hours), make the most of the rest of your day by cruising the island’s bays by sailboat, before anchoring at the smaller, more untouched island of Antiparos (also reachable via a 10-minute ferry ride). Get your bearings with an espresso at the main square—or a cocktail at sister spots Boogaloo Cocktail Bar and Tabula Rasa —before checking out the the island’s top sights. A highlight: Antiparos Cave, with carvings that date back to the Stone Age.

Photos courtesy of Boogaloo Cocktail Bar

Back on Paros, dine along the port at Mediterraneo Paros , toasting the evening with Greek ouzo (an anise-flavored aperitif) and a series of seafood meze , or tapas. Then, cozy up for the evening in the 16-room Papadakis Hotel , which not only shows off one of the best views of Naoussa Bay but has also earned a reputation for having the best breakfast on the island. No surprise there, considering the owners happen to be the mother and sister of celeb Greek chef Argiro Barbarigou.

Explore More: See all Naoussa, Paros hotels

Day 7: Naxos

Round out your week of island hopping at Náxos, the largest isle of the Cyclades. A high-speed catamaran from Paros will get you there in 30 minutes. It’s up to you how you spend your day, but we have few suggestions. Locals love Hawaii Beach on the southwest side, where sheer cliffs rise up some 30 feet from its untouched sands. Hiking trails from the towns of Halki and Apeiranthos pass by more tucked-away archeological sites, Venetian castles, and caves. Leave enough time to check in (and check out) at the Naxian Collection , a smattering of white-washed Cycladic-style villas run by a local couple where you can share a glass of wine in the cellar with owner Yannis or pick produce from the organic garden with his wife, Maria (who can teach you the secrets behind her locally inspired menu during a one-on-one cooking course). You’ll feel like you’re staying with family—a perfect way to spend your last night in Greece.

Explore More: See all Naxos, Greece hotels

What to Wear in Greece

Summer fancy women’s dress outfit, shop the look.

Tiered Hem Charmeuse Maxi Dress

Black Pumps

Woven Sisal Bag

Men’s semi-casual dinner outfit for curaçao.

Riviera Short Sleeve Shirt

Regular Fit Shorts

Leather Strap Watch

Women’s Semi-Dressy Outfit to Wear in Italy

Ultimate Coverage 24 Hour Foundation

T-shirt Dress

Cateye Sunglasses

Print Gauze Scarf

Wedge Sandals

Men’s outfit for the most beautiful european places.

Stripe Shirt

Federal Slim Straight Leg Jeans

Peace Sign Pendant Necklace

Brown Suede Belt

Chuck Taylor®

Women’s swimsuit to wear in fiji.

Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

Transparent Beach Tote

Quarter Step

Men’s chill summer swimwear.

Swim Trunks

Fitness Tracker

Women’s White Outfit for a Night Out

Leather Tie Leg Sandals

Bar Drop Earrings

Liquid Lipstick

Bamboo Luna Crossbody Bag

Men’s evening walk on the beach outfit.

Stretch Cotton Pants

Box Chain Necklace

Acqua di Giò Absolu Eau de Parfum

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The Ultimate 7-Day Greece Itinerary: History & Islands

Exploring the heart of greece: a 7-day odyssey from athens to mykonos.

Journey through Greece over 7 days, exploring from Athens’ ancient wonders to Mykonos’ vibrant life. Discover historic marvels, breathtaking views, and the rich tapestry of island culture. This itinerary weaves together history, mythology, and natural beauty, complete with travel insights for an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Athens – The Gateway to Antiquity As the sun rises over the city, casting a golden hue on the ancient Acropolis, your Greece tour begins in the heart of Athens. The city’s historical grandeur and modern vibrance intermingle, offering a thrilling start to your adventure. Wander through the Plaka district, where history meets the hustle and bustle of today, and dine under the shadow of the Parthenon, indulging in mouthwatering Greek cuisine.

Day 2: Delphi – The Oracle’s Whisper The journey continues to Delphi, a mystical place where ancient Greeks sought the prophecies of the Oracle. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, explore the Temple of Apollo and the Delphi Archaeological Museum. As you wander these sacred grounds, you’ll feel the whispers of ancient wisdom carried by the breeze.

Day 3: Meteora – Monasteries in the Sky Meteora, with its awe-inspiring rock formations and centuries-old monasteries perched precariously atop, is a sight to behold. Join a guided tour to learn about the monastic life and the history of this breathtaking site. The panoramic views of the Thessalian plains below are a photographer’s dream.

Day 4: Crete – The Minoan Heart Fly to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands and the cradle of Minoan civilization. Explore the Palace of Knossos, and lose yourself in the myths of Minotaurs and Labyrinths. Crete’s rugged mountains and pristine beaches offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

Day 5: Santorini – The Jewel of the Aegean Santorini, with its iconic blue-domed churches and stunning sunsets, is next. Stroll through the charming streets of Oia, enjoy a wine tour to taste the island’s unique volcanic wines, and relax on a sunset cruise along the caldera, witnessing one of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see.

Day 6: Mykonos – The Island of Winds Mykonos, known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, offers a lively contrast to Santorini’s serene beauty. Wander through the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, visit the iconic windmills, and dance the night away at one of the island’s famous beach clubs.

Day 7: Return to Athens – Reflections of a Journey Return to Athens for your final day. Reflect on your incredible journey through Greece, from the ancient ruins that whisper tales of yore to the sun-kissed islands that dance with the rhythm of the Aegean Sea. This isn’t just a farewell; it’s an invitation to return, for Greece has many more stories to tell.

Top Experiences & Tours in Greece

• 6 Day Private Tour – Athens, Cruise to Sounio, Delphi & Santorini : This tailored journey begins in the historic heart of Athens, takes you on a scenic cruise to the temple of Poseidon at Sounio, explores the ancient mysteries of Delphi, and concludes with the breathtaking beauty of Santorini.
• 9 Day Private Tour – Milos, Santorini, Mykonos, Delos : Embark on an exclusive adventure through the Cyclades, discovering the unique volcanic landscapes of Milos, the iconic sunsets of Santorini, the glamorous beaches of Mykonos, and the sacred ruins of Delos.
• 10 Day Private Tour – Santorini, Crete, Mykonos, Delos : Dive deep into the heart of the Aegean with this comprehensive tour, exploring the romantic allure of Santorini, the ancient Minoan culture of Crete, the chic allure of Mykonos, and the archaeological wonders of Delos.
• 10 Day Tour – Athens, Santorini, Crete, and Balos Lagoon Cruise: From the historic splendors of Athens to the crystal-clear waters of Balos Lagoon, this tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and breathtaking natural beauty, including the unforgettable landscapes of Santorini and Crete.

Adventurer’s FAQ:

Q: What’s the best time to go on Greece tours? A: The ideal time for Greece tours is late spring (April to early June) or early fall (September to October), when the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are thinner.

Q: Are Greece tours suitable for families? A: Absolutely! Greece offers a rich tapestry of experiences suitable for all ages, from exploring ancient myths to enjoying the beautiful beaches.

Q: How should I prepare for the island-hopping part of the tour? A: Pack light, bring comfortable shoes for walking, and don’t forget your sunscreen and hat. Each island has its own charm, so be ready for diverse experiences.

Until Our Next Adventure

As our 7-day Greece itinerary concludes, we’re left with memories of azure seas, ancient stones, and the warmth of Greek hospitality. Greece is a land where myths come to life, history speaks through silent ruins, and every sunset tells a story. Until we meet again, keep the spirit of adventure alive, dreaming of distant lands and the next chapter in your journey of discovery.

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THE PERFECT GREECE 7 DAY ITINERARY

Planning a holiday to Greece is lots of fun but you can be overwhelmed by the information overload out there especially when it comes to Itinerary planning. We recommended at least 2 weeks in Greece but if you have limited time and one week to spend then this Greece 7 day itinerary will help you work out where to go, how to get there and what to see and do in each destination.

How to get to Greece

Most people arrive into Greece at one of the international airports, particularly Eleftherios Venizelos Airport in Athens.

International Airport in Greece are in:

Athens , Thessaloniki , Santorini , Mykonos , Rhodes , Corfu , Crete ( Chania and Heraklion), Kefalonia , Alexandroupoli ( East Macedonia), Kavala ( East Macedonia), Chios , Kos, Lesvos, Samos, Paros , Zakynthos and Kalamata ( Peloponnese).

* some of these only take International flights during the tourist season

It is also possible to arrive by sea into the main port of Athens, Piraeus or any of the 228 inhabited islands and countless Mainland coastal towns.

Rail options are improving with the introduction of High-Speed trains internally in 2021 and you can connect with inter-country trains into neighbouring Balkan countries.

Driving into Greece is also popular with border crossings in Albania, FYROM, Bulgaria and even Turkey.

Further reading: How to travel to Athens    

Day 1 Greece 7 day itinerary – Athens

The majority of people arrive in Athens at the beginning of their Greek Odyssey. It is a fascinating city and one that deserves at least 3 days if you can do it.

Don’t be swayed by people who say there’s not much to do or see. Athens is full of incredible archeological and historical sites and monuments, has some of the best Museums in the world, and amazing food and nightlife scene and charming neighbourhoods and backstreets to explore.

A lot of international visitors often start their holiday here and also end if with a night or two to avoid missing international connections.

In this tight itinerary, we include 2 nights in Athens which will cover many of the highlights.

• Arrive in Athens. Either use public transport or taxis to get to the historic centre or book one of our favourite private drivers. Read more HERE .
• Head to Syntagma Square, named after a military uprising in 1843. It is located right in from of the Old Royal Palace which is home to the Greek Parliament since 1934
• Watch the very unique changing of the Greek Presidential Guard , every hour on the hour in from of Parliament
• Visit the Tomb of the Unkown Soldier in from of Parliament while you are there
• Head down Ormou Pedestrian Street, the main shopping street of Athens
• Visit the small church of Kapnikarea, about halfway down
• At Aelou Street it is no longer car-free. Turn left here onto Monastiraki Square which is a major gathering place for Athens and home to many cafes and tavernas as well as the Church of St Mary Pantanassa and the Tzisdarakis Mosque Museum of Greek Folk Art
• Head back to Syntagma Square via Mitroloplos Street and stop for lunch at one of the many tavernas along here. This is one of Athens main dining streets and really comes alive at night. We recommend Metropolis Barbeque on the other side of Mitropoleos Square
• Drop into the beautiful Metropolitan Church of Athens ( Cathedral) on the square
• Adapt to ‘Greek Siesta’ in the late afternoon and head out to drinks and dinner from 10pm

Day 2 in Athens itinerary

• Head to the Acropolis bright and early before the crowds. Read our full Guide to the Acropolis HERE .
• Stroll along the pedestrian street Dionysiou Areopagitou which runs along the southern perimeter of the Acropolis. Here you will find vendors selling arts and souvenirs as well as exhibitions and events at different times of the year
• Visit the Acropolis Museum. Again more details are found about this in our complete Acropolis Guide
• For lunch stop for a Yyros at Gyros Pour Gyrevis on Makrigianni Street on the western side of the Museum
• Head onto Athanasiou Diakou which will take you to the park that houses the Temple of Apollo, Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and the Ancient Sanctuary of Pan
• Walk through the National Gardens which includes Zappeio Hall
• In the evening have rooftop drinks at the famous Grande Bretagne Hotel before heading to Psiri for dinner and nightlife. Don’t miss Little Klook Cafe which is quite mad!

Further reading: Visiting the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum

Day 3 Itinerary in Greece

• Spend the morning exploring other ancient sites in the Ancient Centre such as the Agora and the Temple of Hephaestus.
• The flea market in Monastiraki is also worth a look if you haven’t already done it.
• Explore Plaka, Athens prettiest neighbourhood and home to lots of gems such as Clumsies Bar, Bretoos, The Old Tavern of Psara and the much photographed Anafiotika Cafe.
• Head to Pireaus port and on to the Greek Islands!

Where to stay in Athens

Luxury – The iconic Grande Bretagne has hosted politicians, movie stars and dignitaries from all over the world since 1874. It is located right on Syntagma Square and the rooftop bar has panoramic views of Parliament and the Acropolis and much of Athens

Mid-range : Ergon House is located on bustling Mitropolis Street which is parallel with Ermou pedestrian street and very central. It was newly opened in 2019 and is part of the famous Ergon House food emporiums. With a great rooftop bar and excellent Business Centre and a huge food emporium on the ground floor, it is quite a unique offering in Athens.

Budget : City Circus is located in trendy Psiri and is a modern take on hostels, with excellent facilities and comfortable rooms including family rooms.

Further reading: The best Acropolis view hotels 

ERGON HOUSE

How to get around Athens

From the airport, private driver:.

Have Terry and his team meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in airconditioned, private luxury. He can also organise any day trips you might be interested in too.

Book through this link and receive 10% off. This will still only be 2 Euro more than a Taxi!

At exit gate 3 head across the Skybridge to the Metro Station. You can buy tickets from machines or from a manned booth. Head to the Blue Line – Line 3. Fares are 6 euros one way or 10 euro round trip with a discount for children and seniors. The journey to the city centre takes about 45 minutes.

Between exits 4 and 5 you will find the Bus Station. Catch X95 to the city centre and the X97 to Piraeus Port. Fares cost 5 Euros with discounts for seniors and children. Buses run 24 hours a day and you can buy tickets at the station or onboard.

Outside Exit Gate 3 your will find many taxis. You will also find drivers soliciting for business inside the terminal or you can meet your pre-arranged driver here. It should cost around 35 Euro into the city centre during the day and 50 Euro at night. Make sure you agree on a fare before you leave or insist that the meter is running.

Transport in Athens city centre

Most of the historical centre is flat and all the major sites are a short walk from each other. There is a public tram that services the centre and goes down to the seaside suburbs and the Metro is a great way to move around quickly as well.

A great way to see a lot of Athens, especially for first-timers, is on the Red Hop-on-Hop-off bus.  

Terry’s ‘ Taxi’

Metro Ticket Machine

Day 3 Greece 7 day itinerary continued – Paros

• Arrive in Parikia, Paros and transfer to your hotel. There is a great range of accommodation in Paros for all budgets, which you can read about HERE
• Get to know your local area – there is a lot to see and do or just soak it all up!
• For dinner, we love To Distrato in Parikia followed by drinks and music at Sativa. In Naoussa head to Yemeni followed by drinks at Agosta

Day 4 – Paros

• Explore Parikia. Start at the Archaic Temple of Athena and the Frankish Castle next door. Walk along pretty Lochagoi Georgio Gravari lane exploring the shops and cafes, stopping for a Frappe at Cafe Symposium.
• Visit The Church of Panagia Ekatontapliani also known as the Church of 100 doors and one of the most important religious sites in Greece.
• Head towards to sea and the Ancient Cemetery on Stella Anargyroe. If time permits it’s a 10-minute walk to your right to Livadia Beach for a swim OR catch the small ferry over to Krios Beach.
• For dinner in Parikia try Ouzeri Apostolis on the waterfront or To Morari back near the town square.

Day 5 – Paros

• Hire a car and head around the island. Visit the villages of Aliki, Drios, Piso Livadi Lefkes and the beaches of Faragas, Golden Beach, Ampelas and Santa Maria.
• Be sure to visit the beautiful Church of Agia Triada in Lefkas and stop at the dessert shop “Sweet Smelling Kitchen” or Η πεζούλα της λιχουδιάς for a treat.
• Stop for lunch at Mylos Traditional Grill in the village of Marpissa. They have some of the best Yiros on the island and possibly anywhere and you can sit in the garden of the neighbouring house end enjoy them with a cold beer.
• Also on your travels, you might like to stop by the Marathi Quarries, famous for its Parian marble made to produce icons such as the Venus Di Milo, and the Byzantine Route from Lefkas which is an ancient hiking trail paved with marble.
• End the day in Naoussa. First explore the Harbour and Venetian Castle as well as the labyrinth of shops, boutiques, galleries and cafes.
• Have a night out at the many bars and tavernas in the port – Mario, Barbarossa and Sigi Ikthios are all popular and great for people watching, including celebrities!
• If time permits try and squeeze in a cruise to Antiparos or the Small Cyclades Islands . This really will be one of the best days of your entire life!

Further reading: Things to do on Paros

Paros Hotels, Apartments and Villas

Luxury – Calme Boutique Hotel . A stunning new luxury retreat designed by renowned Alighizakis Architects Located above the quaint southern seaside town of Drios with spectacular views and exceptional service and amenities. Described by many as ‘heaven on earth”.

Mid-range – Paliomylos Spa Hotel . Located on the outskirts of Naoussa in a quiet but convenient hillside position this hotel has well-appointed rooms with kitchenettes, including family rooms and 2 bedrooms apartments. Great breakfasts, exceptional service and a lovely pool and day spa too!

Budget – Irini Rooms . Charming, comfortable rooms located right next to the old town in Naoussa. Spacious, air-conditioned rooms, some with 4 beds – great for families.

Best Villa for groups – Polos Villa

PALIOMYLOS HOTEL AND SPA

POLOS PRIVATE VILLA

How to get around Paros

Bus: The cheapest and safest way to explore Paros is by bus. The main bus stations are in Parikia and Naoussa and are open most days. During high season there are extra services and the timetables are published weekly.

You do not have to purchase tickets in advance nor be at a designated bus stop but simply wave a bus down if you see one. If you need to get to the airport you catch the X96 bus.

Fare range between 2 and 3 Euro and tickets can be purchased on board. See timetables HERE

Taxi: Taxi’s are common around the Port but can be hard to find in other parts of the island. Make sure the meter is on unless you want to hire one for several hours in which case agree on an amount before you start. It is not unusual for drivers to pick up other passengers on the islands so don’t be alarmed if this happens. During peak periods it can pay to book a taxi in advance which your hotel can organise for you.

Water Taxis: There are a few small boats that service some popular routes on the island, in particular Parikia to Antiparos and Krios and Noussa to Kolombithres. These are former fishing boats and lots of fun but usually won’t run on windy days if the sea is rough.

Car and Moped: a car may be convenient if you’re staying in a more remote spot. Some people may prefer a moped (if you have a motorcycle license) or an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) for traversing less-travelled routes. Rental agencies are located at the airport as well as in Parikia. You’ll need an international driver’s licence – read more about the HERE – and check your insurance for Moped or ATV hire.

Day 6 Greece 7 day itinerary – Santorini

Time to catch the ferry to Santorini . Try and do this early to make the most of your day there but not so early you miss breakfast. Greece wakes up around 10!

• Transfer to your hotel in Santorini and soak it in. If you have chosen a place with a Caldera view you may be quite content to do nothing for several hours but take in the incredible spectacle before you
• The Fira to Oia Hike ( or vice-versa) is best done as early as possible, before the heat and the crowds. It is a moderately easy ‘hike’ and takes less than 4 hours or you can halve this by doing Imerovigli to Oia instead. Wear good shoes and sunscreen and take plenty of water!
• Enjoy lunch in Oia at Flora Comfort Cuisine which has 5-star food and views at bargain prices
• Explore Oia – the Byzantine Castle, Church of Panagia, Nikolaoua Nomikoua (Blue Dome church) & numerous galleries & shops. Don’t miss Atlantis Books !
• We also strongly suggest a Wine Tasting Tour . Santorini is world-famous for its wine and they are quite unique and not to be missed
• Take in the famed sunset from Oia or, better yet, book a sunset cruise on the Caldera. A truly unforgettable experience!
• If you decide against a sunset cruise then splurge on a special sunset dinner at Lauda, Lycabettus or Petrosia restaurants
• Other activities worth doing are horsebackriding on the beach and a bus tour of the whole island

Day 7 – Santorini itinerary cont…

• Still, want to see more? Head to Black Beach, White Beach or Red Beach ( if open). Good swimming can be had at Kamari, Perivolos or Perissa Beaches with plenty of sunbeds and facilities
• Explore the ancient village and ruins of Akrotiri and the authentic villages of Megachori and Pyrgos
• Time fly or ferry home or on to more destinations!

Further reading: Things to do on Santorini

Santorini hotels, Villas and more

Luxury – Petit Palace is built into the Caldera with spectacular panoramic views. These luxury suites epitomise contented Greek luxury rooms are elegantly furnished and exquisitely crafted with high-end finishes and amenities. Most have private spa baths and the hotel has a free shuttle bus

Mid-range – Armeni Village is in a great location right in the middle of Oia. The rooms are private and very quiet and some can sleep families or 4 and more. Many rooms have a terrace and panoramic views across the Caldera will some also have small swimming pools.

Budget – Chez Sophie is situated in a quiet part of Kamari on the eastern side of the island. Clean, comfortable rooms with small kitchenettes and balconies, some with bunks for families.

Best Villa for Groups – Canava Winery Villas or Santoxenia luxury Villa

Further reading: Where to stay on Santorini

PETIT PALACE

SANTOXENIA LUXURY VILLA

How to get around Santorini

Bus : The Ktel transportation company operates buses all over the island. During peak travel months most routes are served at least every hour though bus schedules are notorious for changing frequently.

Taxi : Major routes, such as those from the ferry ports to Fira, from Oia to Fira, or travel to certain towns from the airports have fixed rates. For these routes, expect to pay anywhere between 10 euros to 20 euros ($11.19 to $22.37), depending on your final destination.

Car and Moped: A car may be convenient if you’re staying in a more remote spot. Some people may prefer a moped (if you have a motorcycle license) or an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) for traversing less-travelled routes. Rental agencies are located at the airport as well as in Fira.

You’ll need an international driver’s and check your insurance for Moped or ATV hire.

Don’t forget Travel Insurance!

It’s important to make sure you are covered for medical expenses    ( some countries may include this in health insurance) but also for lost baggage, flight and ferry delays and cancellations, theft, and emergencies, including something that happens back home while you are away.

This can save you tens of thousands of dollars, or even more.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Why you must see the greek wedding show santorini, 3 weeks in greece, a day trip to aegina from athens.

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Your Perfect Greece in 7 Days Itinerary: Athens & Islands

Looking to plan the perfect Greece travel itinerary: 7 days in the buzzing metropolis of Athens with time spent in the two most popular islands of Santorini and Mykonos? 

Here’s your full guide to one week in Greece , based on my experience of living in and traveling around the country!  

This post may contain affiliate links. By booking through these links I may make a small commission (which I am very grateful for!) at no additional cost to you.

Planning Your 7 Day Trip to Greece

This Athens Santorini Mykonos itinerary has plenty of room for improvisation, of course. It assumes you’re arriving in, and departing from, Athens—because most of you probably are. And it assumes you want to do some Greek island hopping—because most of you probably do! 

Of course, be sure to check out the best time of year to travel to Greece before planning your trip so you go at the perfect time!

With this Greece itinerary 7 days will be more than enough to hit the two most popular islands of Santorini and Mykonos (yes, it’s also a Greece islands itinerary!) and spend time in the underrated but absolutely delightful city of Athens as well. 

Related: The Best Month to Visit Greece

Greece Travel Itinerary 7 Days

Day 1: arrive in athens .

As you roll off your flight and into the bright Greek sunshine, welcome! You’re about to embark on a trip in one of the best countries ever. You’re likely landing in Athens so that’s where this one week Greece itinerary will begin. 

While Athens doesn’t have the best reputation, it’s the city I call home and one that I have grown to love deeply. It’s a bit worn around the edges, and the traffic is terrible, and the graffiti is everywhere – but that just means the authentic Greek experiences are close at hand. 

Shake off that plane grime with a stroll to the Acropolis—a must-do for any first time in Greece visitor or experienced traveler. Avoid the middle of the day if the weather is warm, because there’s no shade on the hill but plenty of crowds. 

If you’re craving a freddo espresso (espresso shaken over ice—so delicious) or a cold beer and a delicious lunch with a view, you must head to the Acropolis Museum . Go either before or after your visit to the Acropolis, as it’s right across the street from the main entrance. Their shady rooftop cafe has beautiful views, a cool breeze, and lovely food and drink options. 

The museum itself is well worth a visit too. You can learn all about the history of the Acropolis hill, see the ruins of the temples that have been rescued, and lots of beautiful statues found on the site as well. If you aren’t interested in the museum, you can enter just the cafe for free. 

You can walk around the entire Acropolis if your legs still need a stretch—the pedestrian pathway is beautiful and always bustling. 

When you’re ready for dinner, Athens has no shortage of options.

• ManiMani is just a few blocks away from the Acropolis museum and the food is incredibly delicious and beautiful, serving food from the Mani region of Greece. This is some of the best food I’ve had in Athens! (and the servers are so nice). 
• Black Duck is centrally located and has a beautiful garden to dine in, as well as modern Greek dishes and a great wine and cocktail list.
• And Meat the Greek has incredible gyros and souvlaki for cheap—great to fuel up on the go and on a budget. 

After dinner, it’s time to sample a little Athenian nightlife! heteroclito has a huge variety of Greek wines and friendly staff who will guide you through the options. If you want something young and happening, you can’t go wrong with six d.o.g.s in Psyrri. And The Clumsies is a renowned cocktail bar you shouldn’t miss. 

Where to stay in Athens

For a budget option: Selina Athens has a great central location and chic dorms, and City Circus is great as well. 

For a mid-price option: Central Hotel is a good budget hotel pick and as the name suggests, quite centrally located! The Modernist Hotel in Kolonaki is lovely and well-located in a high-end part of Athens.

For a high-end option: Athens Gate Hotel is just a few blocks from the Acropolis Museum, and the views of the Acropolis are stunning, especially from the rooftop! If you’d like to splurge here (and why not?) you can’t do better than the Grande Bretagne Hotel in Syntagma Square. The rooftop bar is worth a visit even if you’re not staying. 

And if you’re looking for lots more recommendations for your Athens itinerary, check out my complete 3 day city guide!

Day 2: Off to Santorini  

The beautiful basic bitch of Greece is definitely Santorini. And you know what? She’s popular for a reason – she’s gorgeous and fun, even for solo travelers . Head to Santorini from Athens in the morning (I suggest flying to save time, though you can book a ferry on FerryHopper if you prefer) so you start your day off here, as the flight is quite short. 

On your first morning of this Santorini 2 day itinerary, lunch with a view in Oia on the northern end of Santorini is a good way to settle in. It’s really popular for sunset but that means it’s insanely crowded, so the daytime is more chill. 

Ammoudi Fish Tavern has great seafood and beautiful views right on the water in Oia—be sure to book ahead as it’s popular! Wander off the meal around the charming little streets and boutiques here before heading back to Fira.

And you can have a cheeky glass of wine on a cafe terrace too – you’re on vacation in Santorini! 

If you want a delicious budget option for lunch or dinner, head to Lucky’s Souvlaki in Fira. He’s a true local character and his gyros are top-notch, and you will definitely meet people here too. 

And for the afternoon and evening, I’d suggest a sunset sailing trip . There are several companies who offer these from Santorini, and options range from a budget tour with basic but solid food and unlimited white wine to more upscale choices. It’s the best way to see all the different facets of the island, and you can even swim in the warm waters by the volcano. 

Where to stay in Santorini 

I’d suggest choosing a place to stay in Fira, which is the center of Santorini. All the buses go from here all over the island, and it has a lot of dining options and cafes. Its caldera views are beautiful as well, and with limited time on your trip to Greece itinerary, it helps to be really central so you don’t waste time getting around. 

For a hostel option: Bedspot Hostel is highly rated and centrally located – and one of the only hostels in Santorini!

For a budget hotel option: Markakis Studios is right in the center of Fira and has charming, if basic, little rooms for a great price. And San Giogio Hotel is also a great budget choice right in town. 

For a splurge: Athena Suites has the full Santorini luxury experience with caldera views and jacuzzi suites.

Day 3: Sightseeing in Santorini

Santorini is overtouristed, but everyone goes here for a reason – it’s stunningly beautiful. There’s nothing else quite like it. The island got its famous and striking caldera shape (those steep cliffs falling down to a big circular bay) from a volcanic explosion around 1600 BCE. 

In fact, one of the coolest things to do on Santorini if you’re interested in history is to head to Akrotiri to the archeological site. You can see the remains of the very advanced civilization that existed in Minoan times on Santorini that was destroyed by the volcanic explosion. Everything is well-preserved and explained so you can get a sense of what life was like in Santorini then. 

Unlike at Pompeii, another famous volcanic site, there are no bodies here – the inhabitants clearly knew something cataclismic was going to happen based on earlier earthquakes and escaped with all their valuables. Where they went, we still don’t know. It’s a beautiful mystery . 

You can take a bus from Fira to Akrotiri or a taxi from wherever you’re staying. All the info you need for your visit is here . Afterwards, visit the Museum of Prehistoric Thera (which is the Greek name for Santorini) to view the artifacts found at Akrotiri – although some are reproductions because the originals are in the Athens Archeological Museum, which we’ll get to later. 

If you’re more in the mood for an active outdoors activity, you can do the Fira to Oia hike . I did it and I am not (really, really not) a hiker, so it’s fairly easy and very scenic. It will take you about 3-4 hours depending on how fast you go. Don’t do it mid-day if you’re visiting in summer – there’s no shade and it’s quite hot going along. 

To reward yourself for your cultural and/or physical activity, it’s time for a delicious dinner. Santorini has its tourist traps, but there are also some real gems. Visit Ouzeri for a great budget option, Naoussa for a traditional taverna vibe with caldera views, or Argo for really delicious food and a pretty good view. 

If you want to go out in Santorini, options abound! I loved the more low-key vibe of Tropical Bar —get there early for a good seat. PK Cocktail Bar has beautiful views of the caldera in Fira and good drinks. 

Day 4: Magical Mykonos

In the morning, it’s time to head to Mykonos! Hop on the ferry (buy your tickets ahead of time with FerryHopper especially in summer, as they sell out), land at the Mykonos port, and grab a cab to the main town. This world-famous island is full of natural beauty and beautiful people, and one of my favorite little Greek gems—but more on that tomorrow! 

Mykonos does the classic look of the Greek islands so well it’s become iconic – white-washed houses with bright blue trim, flags waving gently in the breeze. And of course, it has quite a party scene as well, though sadly Lindsay Lohan’s Mykonos club closed. 

Spend your first afternoon wandering around the center of town taking in the sights and people-watching. The windmills are worth a quick look, and walking the harbor from end to end and then getting lost in the little alleys will get you well acquainted with the town. 

To eat, Captain’s (which has great views of the harbor) and Eva’s Garden are lovely and not too pricey, although nothing comes cheap on this upscale island. If you do crave a quick, cheap meal, one of the bakeries in town can definitely help you out – Greek bakeries are great sources of delicious, cheap light meals like sandwiches and baked goods, as well as takeaway coffee.  

And of course, at night you can hit up a beach club if the mood feels right. Paradise Beach Club is an institution for serious clubbers but chill by day, while Cavo Paradiso is one of the most famous and has shuttles from town. 

Where to stay in Mykonos: 

I stayed in Aether Boutique Hotel , which was beautiful, charming, and well-priced, and has a huge and delicious breakfast included. If you’d like to be right in town, Harmony Boutique Hotel is a well-located option that’s not too expensive. Theoxenia Boutique Hotel is a lovely splurge option right in town as well. 

Day 5: Delightful Delos Island

Another of my absolute favorite places in Greece is the island of Delos, just off Mykonos.

It was a sacred island for the ancient Greeks and said to be the birthplace of Artemis and Apollo, and a cult site for the god Dionysus. Fellow nerds may have heard of the Delian League, yes it was formed here! 

It’s been uninhabited since around the 8 th century years and is now a quiet sanctuary full of ancient ruins and a stunning silence. And cats!

Check in at the Delos Tours office in the harbor to find out when the ferries are going the day before you want to leave – like much else in Greece, their schedules can be unpredictable. 

Or you can book a guided tour of the island if you want a more personalized experience, or to add on some extra sailing time!

Delos is so perfect that it’s worth building your day around. You’ll usually have a few hours on the island before the return trip – don’t miss the boat back! Wandering the serene beauty is the perfect escape from the wild crowds of Mykonos. It’s all little scenic paths and ancient ruins as far as the eye can see, and a real sense of place and peace. 

When you return to Mykonos, you might be in the mood for a quiet dinner at Kadena or Nikos Tavern (or Sakis Grill House for a cheap and delicious gyro) to relax before heading back to Athens tomorrow. Or club it up for one more night – you only live once!

Day 6: Mykonos and Athens  

A word to wise travelers on a 7 day trip to Greece—prepare for things to not go according to plan. There are strikes on the ferries and in the airports, weather that prevents ferries from sailing and planes from arriving on time, and just the general chaos of travel in a slow-paced place. 

I always advise people who follow my Greece itinerary for 7 days to leave plenty of time in their plans in case things go wrong. That means not trying to pack too much into your Greece trip itinerary, and ensuring you return to the place you’re departing from at least the day before you leave. 

And that’s why we’re back in Athens! You can spend the morning in Mykonos wandering around the old town and enjoying your espresso freddo in the sun before heading to the airport or ferry dock. 

Once you’re back in Athens, head to the National Archeological Museum in Exarchia to see the vast range of Greek art and artifacts throughout the centuries and, indeed, millenia. Now that you’ve been to ancient sites like Akrotiri and Delos, you’ll have a new appreciation for the range of cultures and civilizations that have left their mark here. At the museum you can see them all in one place, from the mysterious ancient Cycladic figurines to Mycenaen gold hordes to Minoan frescoes and more. 

When you need a break, they have a lovely shaded cafe on the ground level for a freddo espresso and a koulouri, a sesame bread ring that is a classic Greek snack (I’m totally addicted). 

After you’re done with the museum and its ancient wonders, it’s time to explore some of modern Greece in the Exarchia neighborhood that surrounds it. This is a very young, hip, artistic (and anarchist) neighborhood in Athens that I love. Yes, it looks rundown like most of Athens, but the cafes are happening and lovely and there’s such a vibrant local scene here, you shouldn’t miss it. 

You might be pretty tired at this point in your itinerary for Greece, so sitting in a cafe with a coffee or a drink and watching the local life after browsing some shops for souvenirs is a great plan to recover.

If you need to stretch your legs, you can climb up the Strefi hill or Lycavettus hill to get some views and air before dinner. Or you can do these hikes if you’re just over museums—it’s your trip!

If you haven’t gotten any Cretan food yet (the best cuisine in Greece)—head to Atitamos for an authentic feast. And if you’re looking for more modern Greek food in a beautiful inside-outside setting, Giantes is your place. Pop into Warehouse afterwards for a drink in a chic local wine bar. 

Day 7: Leaving Athens (and Greece)

You’ll be missing Greece before you’ve even left, I promise you. But how to spend your final day here depends on when your flight leaves—hopefully in the afternoon or evening so you can enjoy part of the day here! 

I’d suggest a casual stroll around the Plaka neighborhood to say a fond farewell to Greece and her shining Acropolis. Drink one last espresso freddo in the sunshine, grab a final spanakopita from a bakery, and maybe enjoy a final gyros plate at O Thanasis in Monastiraki.

My favorite final stop in Greece is always having a drink at the rooftop bar of the Grande Bretagne Hotel in Syntagma. It’s pricey, but the views of the Acropolis from the shady terrace and of all of Athens simply can’t be beat. Toast goodbye to this beautiful country—hopefully you’ll be back soon!

Travel Logistics for Your Greece 7 Day Itinerary

Traveling within greece.

What is the best way to get around Greece? That depends on many factors! 

Flying is fast and there are plenty of flight departures to all the islands from Athens, especially in summer. If you’re here in the shoulder or off-season, they can be pretty cheap too. When you have just 7 days in Greece, I do suggest flying so you can get more destinations out of your trip. 

Lots of low-cost airlines like RyanAir and Vueling fly all over Greece, and can be a good deal. I am over my RyanAir days though and prefer Aegean Airlines , which is the national airline of Greece and quite lovely and affordable (plus their seats are a decent size and their employees are really nice!). Google Flights is your friend here, and then book directly with the airline once you find a good deal. 

Ferries are frankly my favorite form of transport, and the Greek ones are great. But they’re not the fastest way to get around, and departures are particularly limited in the off-season. Overnight ferries can be cool if you’re traveling to or from Crete, as it’s a real local experience and they’re quite comfortable. But the slow daytime ferry to Santorini, for example, takes all day to arrive and it’s always late. Not the best option for your Greece week itinerary.

To book your ferries in Greece, FerryHopper is your best bet. They let you choose any itinerary based on the islands you want to visit, their app is really user-friendly and even lets you track your ferry in real-time, and they have good customer service when things go wrong (as they often do on the chaotic ferries). 

Getting Money 

One of my biggest rules about money and traveling is to never get cash at an airport—they will give you a terrible exchange rate and charge you lots of fees. Instead, use a Greek bank ATM for max safety and convenience once you arrive in the center. Eurobank ATMs are also a real rip-off you should avoid at all costs. 

Getting Around 

If you’re coming from or going to the Athens airport from the center, you can take the fast, reliable subway directly there—just be sure to get the Aerodromo line and you’ll be set. Don’t forget to buy the airport ticket instead of the normal subway one from the machine in the station—it should cost 9 euros. And do watch out for pickpickets on that line, as they tend to target tourists. You can also take the X95 bus directly to Syntagma in the center, which only costs 6 euros and leaves every 15 minutes.

You can also take the subway to the ferry port at Pireaus which is easy, no special ticket required (but the same pickpocket advice applies).

All the other airports and ferries have bus connections as well, which are cheap but can be slow. Taxis are easy to find in Greece but they often mark up prices for tourists, so I tend to stick with Uber which makes sure the price is correct even though it just calls you a yellow taxi. Plus it eliminates language confusion. 

Your 7 Day Greece Itinerary

I hope this Greece one week itinerary gave you all the info you need to plan your trip – and feel free to make it your own! The perfect Greece week itinerary might look a little different for you, so this guide can serve as a starting point for your own plans.

For example, if you wanted a Greece itinerary for 8 days because you have a little bit more time, you could spend longer in Athens ( my favorite city! ) or take an extra day to lounge on the beach in Mykonos. It’s up to you! You could also add a day trip from Athens , like heading to Cape Sounion or Aegina Island for the day.

Or if you’re tight on time and need a 6 day Greece itinerary, I’d skip one island and spend a little extra time on the other one.

Don’t miss my top ten Greece travel tips which will tell you even more about this country I love and call home. It will make your Greece in 7 days itinerary a trip you’ll never forget! 

More Greece travel resources:

• Planning a Trip to Greece: Everything You Need to Know
• The Best Time of Year to Visit Greece
• My Favorite Books About Greece
• The Perfect 3 Day Athens Itinerary

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2 thoughts on “Your Perfect Greece in 7 Days Itinerary: Athens & Islands”

Yiassou, Kathleen. Thanks for an engaging and informative article! I wonder if you know of anyone who has gotten the Greek government’s digital nomad one-year visa? I am in the process of applying and want to make sure I am meeting all the requirements. My question is, can I rely on my pension from being a teacher in the US, some social security, and my retirement savings, to meet the 3,500 euro per month income requirement? If not, should I find a job here in the US before I submit my application? I am a free lance writer/editor working as an independent contractor which means I do not have a regular on-going employment contract. The last 2 years I have had short term contracts that are not guaranteed, I tend to take on jobs when I can. It’s the nature of free lancing and really compatible with my desire to spend a year immersed in Greece. As a 28 year regular visitor to Greece, I really appreciate your help in making my dream of living there year-round come true!

Hi Malia, always nice to meet another Greece lover! I’m actually in the process of applying for the digital nomad visa right now which is super exciting. I’m not an expert though, so I’d recommend talking to a lawyer about your situation! I’m also a freelancer but had to show contracts with my long-term clients to meet the requirements.

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

Itinerary: one week in greece – what to do + where to stay.

You want to go for a 1 week trip to Greece and you’re looking for the best Itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this recommended Itinerary for a week in Greece . You will discover some of the best places to visit in the country!

In this itinerary, you will visit Athens , the capital as well as the world famous Santorini island located in the Cyclades archipelago.

A quick note: If you prefer to visit Central Greece (Athens and Peloponnese ) , you should read my other itinerary article: How to spend 6, 7 or 8 days in Central Greece?

For this itinerary, in addition to the best things to do and must-see attractions , I will also give you all my best tips as well as a list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what to do during one week in Greece?

Where to stay in Athens

Where to stay in santorini, best hotels in oia, best hotels in fira, other best places to stay in santorini island, greece tours, renting a boat in greece, cyclades (greek islands), 1) athens (3 days).

To visit Greece, the best is to directly land in Athens , the capital city.

It’s very easy to visit Athens on foot , so you won’t have to rent a car for your first 3 days in Greece!

To reach the city centre from the international airport, you have 4 options:

• Take a taxi : it takes about 50 minutes and costs 40€ to reach the centre of Athens. Don’t be afraid of the waiting line. It can seem impressive, but it’s rather fast.
• Take the Metro: the line 3 (the blue one) will allow you to avoid traffic jams on the road, especially during busy hours! You will reach the city centre in 45 minutes, for 8€.
• The Bus : the line X95 goes to Syntagma Square in 1 hour, 24 hours a day. It’s the cheapest solution to go to the centre, and it will cost you only 6€.
• There is an other option : you can ask your hotel if they offer an airport shuttle service. They can wait for you at the airport when you will land, and take you directly to your hotel.

Let’s start the visit of Athens with The Acropolis , the most iconic site of the captial . You can reach the Acropolis on foot or use the Metro, depending on your hotel location. The closest Metro Station is named “Acropoli”, making it very easy to remember!

There, you will get a better understanding of the historical context and the construction of the Acropolis. In the Museum, you can also admire all the remains discovered on the site. And don’t forget to end your visit at t he top floor terrace, it offers an amazing view of the Acropolis.

As it’s Athens’ most popular museum, you should really buy your skip the line tickets here:

Now that you’re immersed in Athens History, it’s time to visit the Acropolis!

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most visited ancient sites in Greece . During your visit, you will admire its most famous monument: The Parthenon . It’s the first building in the world that was entirely made of marble.

• The propylaea , the monumental gateway to the site
• The Erechtheion (or Erechtheum), where 6 young girls statues are used as columns.
• The Temple of Athena Nike
• The ancient Theatre
• The Odeon of Herodes Atticus

If you need to rest a fter this busy morning, how about a lunch break at one of the many restaurants in the area?

You can also try a typical Greek sandwich: the Gyros (there are 2 versions, chicken or pork). I must admit that Gyros and ice cream were my daily lunch during my tour in Greece! It might seem unhealthy, but it was compensated by the busy days 😋.

After that, continue your visit with a short walk in Plaka district , located at the foothill of the Acropolis. This picturesque district, with its neoclassical houses and Byzantine buildings, is one of the oldest of the city . As it’s quite touristic, y ou will also find many souvenir shops there.

Then, continue your tour of Athens’ historical sites with the Ancient Agora. Nowadays, the site is mostly in ruins, except for the restored Temple of Hephaestus.

In ancient Greece, the A gora was the cultural, political and social centre of the city. T he museum, located within the site, displays the objects and statues found during the archaeological excavations.

After leaving the Agora, go to Monastiraki district. There, you’ll find lots of small shops, with souvenirs, clothes or jewellery. It feels a bit like the Arabic souks!

To end this great day in Athens, climb to the top of Philopappos hill to watch the sunset over the Acropolis and the Parthenon.

And when the night comes, if you want to celebrate the beginning of your holidays in Greece, just go to Gazi neighborhood . It’s the best place to have a drink, or even party all night in a night club!

Spend the night in Athens.

For this second day of your one week trip to Greece, let’s continue this tour of Athens.

Your 1st visit of the day is the Panatheic Stadium or Kallimarmaro. It was built to host track-and-field competitions as well as chariot races . G ladiator fights were also organized! It was rebuilt in the 19th century to host the 1st Modern Olympic Games .

You can visit the Stadium for 5€, but you can also see it very well from the outside. If you don’t want to pay, the best is to go to the public park near the stadium, it will allow you to go to the top of the bleachers for free. From there , the view on the Acropolis is breathtaking.

After that, make a short photo stop to see 2 other ancient sites, the Arch of Hadrian and the Temple of Olympian Zeus (visible from the outside). You will also enjoy a bit of greenery in the Zappeion Park and National Garden . I f you are on a family trip with kids, they will be happy to enjoy the playgrounds.

Crossing the park will take you to Syntagma Square , Athens’ main square. There, you will see the House of Parliament and the Changing of the Presidential Guard ceremony. It takes place every hour and allows you to admire the traditional uniforms of the guards (the Evzones) with skirts, tights and pompom shoes!

From Syntagma Square, head to Ermou Street, Athens’ main commercial street. There, y ou’ll find most of the big international brands. Prepare your credit card!

Then, visit the National Archaeological Museum of Athens , where you can admire many ancient objects discovered in Greece , from the Neolithic era to the Roman period.

End this day by going to Mount Lycabettus, one of the best places to admire the sunset in Athens . You’ll have the choice between walking or riding the cable-car to go up there.

Spend another night in Athens.

For the third day of your 1 week itinerary in Greece, You should visit Athens surroundings. There are some really nice day trips to do from Athens. Y ou either can go to the beach, Cape Sounion, Peloponnese, Delphi or the Saronic Islands .

If you want to be independent, the best website to rent a car is Rentalcars.com .

And if you don’t want to rent a car for just 1 day , you can also book a full-day trip from Athens.

My favorite place to visit is the ancient site of Delphi , located 2:30 drive from Athens. It’s quite far from the city, but it’s really worth it! On Mount Parnassus , you will discover the Temple of Apollo , where the oracle of Delphi, the Pythia, transmitted Apollo’s directives from gods to humans.

You will also visit the theater, the stadium a nd enjoy a breathtaking view over the valley. Don’t miss a visit to the Delphi Archaeological Museum either.

This Day Trip includes the transfer from Athens, all entrance fees, guide and lunch. All you have to do is get on the bus and enjoy the trip!

Click on the following button for more info about your trip to Delphi:

If you wish to stay closer to Athens, several other excursions are available:

• From Athens – Visit the Temple of Poseidon and Cape Sounion : During this Day Trip, you will go to Cape Sounion, located at the end of the Attic Peninsula. On the road, you will see the famous beaches of the Coast of Apollo. Then, you will visit the Temple of Poseidon. This temple is built on a hill, and the landscape around is breathtaking, especially at sunset!
• From Athens – Visit the Saronic Islands: How about a full-day cruise to the Saronic Islands? There, you will visit the islands of Poros, Hydra and Aegina. The lunch is included.
• From Athens – A full-day Mycenae and Epidaurus trip: This bus Day Trip starts with the archaeological site of Mycenae, that was once King Agamemnon’s home. After that, you will make a stop in Nafplio to admire the Palamidi Fortress. You will end this trip discovering the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus. Entrance fees, transfer, guide and lunch are included!

After this amazing day of visits, it will be time to spend one last night in Athens.

You can find all the best places to go and must-see attractions in Athens in my article: Visit Athens: the definitive guide.

If you wish to visit Athens’ 6 most famous ancient sites such as:

• The Ancient Agora
• Hadrian’s Library
• The Temple of Olympian Zeus
• The Roman Agora
• The Aristotle’s Lyceum
• The Kerameikos.

You should buy the 30€ combined ticket . It’s valid for 5 days, and it’s a s kip the line ticket .

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) Santorini (3 days)

For the 2nd part of your one-week trip to Greece, how about a complete change of scenery? Let’s go to Santorini, in the Cyclades!

You can go to Santorini from Athens by boat or by plane.

In my opinion, the best is to take the plane : it’s not necessarily more expensive than the boat, and you will not be wasting a whole day for the transfer. For a one-week itinerary, I think it’s by far the best choice.

Now that you’re in Santorini , I will give you the best itinerary and tips to visit the most famous and romantic island of the Cyclades.

First of all, if you wish to visit Santorini in 3 days, you really should rent a car . Take a look at Rentalcars.com to compare car rental prices and choose the one that suits your needs.

I recommend you to get an insurance that will cover your car in case of damages or accident. Rentalcars.com offers the “Full Protection Insurance” , which is very effective (they refunded me more than 1200 euros to date).

It can be really useful in Santorini , as the streets and the parking lots are often narrow and some people aren’t very careful, so a scratch or bump that will cost you a few hundreds euros can happen very quickly.

Once you’ve got your car, let’s go to one of Santorini’s most famous villages: Fira.

Located on the edge of the caldera , Fira feels like a postcard landscape . There, you’ll discover pretty white and blue houses, luxury hotels with infinity pools and premium shops. You just have to walk down its narrow alleys to enjoy splendid views .

From Fira, a walk takes you to 2 other adjacent villages located on top of the caldera: Firostefani and Imerovigli , the caldera’s highest point.

After your lunch break, how about a hike on Santorini’s most beautiful walking trail? Starting from Fira, this trail goes to Oia town . You’ve already done a small part of it from Fira to Imerovigli!

Follow the path along the Caldera to reach Oia . Don’t forget the photo stops: you’ll enjoy wonderful views and you will never get tired of looking at those landscapes!

And if you don’t feel like walking , you can take your car to drive directly to Oia.

Once in Oia, you’ll enjoy walking in the typical alleys of Santorini’s other most visited village.

And at the end of the day, 1 hour before sunset , pick a good spot admire it. Don’t leave your spot: thousands of tourists (including you!) are coming to enjoy the most famous show in Santorini.

Spend the night in Santorini.

Let’s continue this one-week in Greece itinerary with your 2nd day in Santorini.

Cruises are among the island’s most popular tourist attractions. So, how about a boat trip to visit the surroundings of Santorini? The classic one-day cruise includes 3 stops:

• Nea Kameni island, with its still active volcano. You can even climb to the top of the crater.
• Palea Kameni Hot Springs, a must do swim!
• The island of Therasia , located in front of Santorini.

This 39€ per person tour includes a transfer from and to your hotel, audio commentaries, the cruise and the 3 stops.

Those one-day boat tours are very popular. You must book it in advance, especially during high season! You can book your tour directly here by clicking the button below.

You can also book a more luxurious cruises. There, you will sail on a catamaran , and have 3 different stops (including the Hot Springs) to go swimming.

Snorkeling equipment, a full barbecue lunch and unlimited soft drinks are included.

You will also have the opportunity to watch the sunset over Santorini from the sea!

For your last day in Santorini , you should do a road-trip on the island, to discover other nice places.

Santorini is not just Fira and Oia. There’s so much more to discover! You just have to t ake your car and explore the island .

You can visit the picturesque villages of Pyrgos, Megalochori and Emporio.

If you are interested in Santorini’s History, visit the ancient site of Akrotiri. This ancient Minoan city was destroyed by an eruption, like Pompeii, in Italy . The only difference is that Akrotiri was uninhabited when it happened.

The Ancient Thera is another archaeological site of Santorini that’s also worth visiting. There, you’ll also enjoy a magnificent view from the hill of Mesa Vouno.

Wine enthusiasts are aware that Santorini also produces excellent white wines and that there are some vineyards on the island . So if you wish, you can also book a wine tour . During 5 hours, you will visit the vineyards, and of course, taste some wines! Wine tours are a great opportunity to taste a dozen of Santorini’s best wines.

These wine tours are very convenient: t hey will come and pick you up at your hotel. During the tour, you will have an Oenologist guide as well as the explanations of the winemakers. Another strong point is that you will be in a small group of 8 people maximum.

Then, you can end your day on one of Santorini’s best beaches!

The most famous and popular beaches are Khamari and Perissa, with its volcanic black sand. The Red Beach, surrounded by high ocre cliffs is also quite famous. There, you can rent deckchairs and beach umbrellas.

If you are spending one-week in Greece with your family, then you will enjoy Monolithos beach. The shallow water makes it an ideal place to play with children!

Spend a last night in Santorini

The next day, it will be time to take your return flight or the boat. Santorini has an international airport, so you can either go home directly from here, or take  a connecting flight in Athens.

For more details about the best things to do in Santorini, you can read my article: Visit Santorini: The definitive guide.

You must know that staying in Santorini, especially in the villages of the caldera like Oia and Fira , is quite expensive.

If you want a less expensive accommodation , it’s better to choose a hotel outside these 2 cities .

And of course, even more in Santorini than in any other place, book your hotels as early as possible!

To help you choose, I have made a selection of the best hotels in Santorini , depending on where you want to stay and your budget.

• Aethrio Hotel: Located in Oia, only a few steps away from the main square. You can rent double rooms, studio flats or apartments with balcony for most of them. The price starts from 160€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the swimming pool, the large rooms, the rooftop to admire the sunset. It’s one of the cheapest places in Oia, and it offers a great value for money!
• Caldera Premium Villas: Located in the centre of Oia. You will love the troglodyte suites with a breathtaking view of the sea and the caldera, starting from 290€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the design of the rooms, and the location.
• Theodora Suites Apartment: Located in the heart of the city. Studio flats with small kitchen, fridge, private terrace and hot tub, starting from 350€, breakfast included. What I loved: the hot tubs, the breathtaking view, the kind staff.
• Andronis Boutique Hotel: 5-star hotel located in Oia. You’ll enjoy large suites with a view of the caldera, private balcony and private hot tub or pool, starting from 800€ with breakfast included. Strong points: the idyllic scenery and the calm. It’s my recommendation for a one-week romantic stay in Greece!
• Katikies Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World: This luxurious hotel offers rooms and suites with a great view, bathtub and spa. The price starts from 1000€ with breakfast included. What I loved: the pools, the spas, the splendid views and the food! It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay in Santorini!

• Galatia Villas: Located 10 minutes away from Fira’s city centre. The double rooms are quite basic but nice, and the price starts from only 80€ per night. Strong points: the hot tub on the roof, the kind staff, the great value for money for Santorini.
• Lilium Santorini Villa: Located on the edge of the caldera. These elegant and modern double rooms with sea view are available starting from 315€, breakfast included. What I loved: the pool, the exceptionnal location, the warm and welcoming staff.
• Cosmopolitan Suites – Small Luxury Hotels of the World: Located in the heart of Fira. You will enjoy lovely rooms with private balcony, decorated in the purest Cycladian style, starting from 550€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the infinity pool over the cliff, and the luxury hotel services. This is the perfect place to stay with your lover in Santorini!
• Aria Suites: Located in Fira, this high standard hotel offers only 6 suites and luxury villas, fully equipped (you even get a laptop), starting from 700€ per night. What I loved: the magnificent place, the pool and the staff availability. This is a great choice for a luxurious and romantic stay in Fira!

• Memories Beach Hotel: Located just accross Monolithos beach. These comfortable modern rooms starts from 65€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the calm and the adorable staff.
• Rose Suites: Located in Vourvoulos, only 4 kilometers away from Fira. Those studio flats and apartments are well equiped and decorated, with a small kitchen and a private terrace. The prices are starting from 75€ per night. What I loved: the pool, the calm, the decoration. The fridge is also full with everything you need for breakfast. This is the best choice in Santorini for its exceptional value for money!
• Hippocampus Hotel: Located in Kamari, only 50 meters away from the beach. The rooms, with a view on the swimming pool or the garden, are starting from 85€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the ideal location close to the beach, and the really kind staff.
• Meltemi Village Hotel: Located in Perissa, only 5 minutes away from the Black beach. The rooms and suites with hot tubs are starting from 100€ per night, with the breakfast included. What I loved: the pools, the spa, and the great breakfast. A great choice for a stay on Santorini’s shore!

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? 😊

If you need help to plan your one week itinerary in Greece, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments.

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: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece – The definitive guide to visit Athens + Peloponnese in a week
• 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

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

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Discussion 8 comments.

We are two peoples planing to tour visit in Greece for 6/7 days in April 2019 so how may you help us to book our tour ?

Do you plan to organize your 1 week trip to Greece by yourself or to book with a travel agency?

If you are planning to go by yourself, I can for sure help you to plan your stay.

Do you have an idea of what you would like to see during your one week trip to Greece?

Hello Vincent,

Thank you for your great articles. It’s informative and I enjoyed reading them.

I have 9 days to visit Greece in late October. I want to visit Athens, Peloponnese Region and either Santorini or Mykonos. Do you have any maps to show how I can do a walking tours from Fira to Oia Town, or yet is there any visitor center there that I can drop by? Thank you in advance for you reply.

Hello Linn,

I am glad you enjoy my articles about Greece!

For the walking tour from Fira to Oia, there is just 1 walking path, you really can’t miss it. When starting from Fira, you can visit the adjacent towns of Firostefani and then imerovigli. Simply walk on the path that is the closest to the sea, on the border of the Caldera – Here again, impossible to get lost! And then the hiking path to Oia starts from the end the end of Imerovigli village, near Avaton resort and Spa hotel ( Here is a Google map link ).

Enjoy your trip to Greece and Santorini, and if you have any other question, don’t hesitate to ask me.

this is so helpful! thank you so much for sharing. we’re planning a trip in march 2023.

Thanks Naima!

Don’t hesitate if you have questions about this one week itinerary in Greece. Regards,

Thank you for your great articles. It’s informative and I enjoyed reading them. I do have a few questions: 1, How do you get Euro? I have transfer wise card (ATMs card will work with most bank?) I’m coming from United States 2. For car rental, Is the car automatic gear,driver on left side? or is it all Manual car? I had a hard time renting Autonomic gear in France 3. Speaking only English will get you around okay? 4. I plan to go Greece for 1 week solo, your article above would woks for my situation? Is the price up to date since Article written Nov 21, not that old but inflation is not in our favor. Thank you in advance

Hello Louann,

Regarding your questions about your one week itinerary in Greece: 1) You can change your money at the airport. The Transfer Wise card should work too, but you should always have some change as sometimes it is not possible to pay by card. 2) In Greece they are mostly manual cars (if you look on Rentalcars by clicking on the link in the article, it always says if it’s manual or automatic) – Right hand drive (like in France, Italy, Spain…) 3) Yes, no problem for English 4) Yes, you can follow this route as a solo traveler, no problem! For the prices, it will always depend on the season/month where you want to do this itinerary, and how many months in advence you book your hotels/car rental/flight etc.. It can easily go from 1x to 5x! To check how much it would cost in your case, at the dates you want, simply click on the names of the hotels in the article (orange links) to see the price. And yes, there is a lot of inflation on car rentals and hotels all over Europe (because of Covid).

Enjoy your one-week itinerary in Greece!

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The Ultimate 7-Day Greece Itinerary: Athens, Greek Island Hopping & More

Planning a Greek getaway? This 7-day Greece itinerary is full of great ideas and travel tips to make the most of your holiday.

With beautiful beaches, picturesque islands, great weather and a tasty cuisine Greece is an amazing country for holidays. However, when it comes to trip planning, it can feel overwhelming as there are so many destinations to choose from. If you’re planning to spend a week in Greece, there are a few things to consider.

You could spend time in Athens touring the icons of Ancient Greece and soaking up the buzz of the city. Alternatively, Greek island-hopping holidays are really popular these days. You could spend a week visiting stunning islands including Crete , Zakynthos, Mykonos or Santorini .

If you’re looking for something more relaxing, a villa holiday might suit you best. Imagine spending a week in a dreamy white villa perched on a cliff with an epic view of the turquoise water below? Or for something extra special, how about a yacht charter in Greece ? Waking up on the water will add another dimension to your adventure.

Regardless of the style of trip you choose, you can incorporate a mix of activities into your week in Greece. There are endless great restaurants, beautiful spots and adventure activities and tours to enjoy.

I’ve come up with the perfect 7-day Greece itinerary, which I think incorporates a lovely bit of everything! It kicks off in Athens and then takes you to some of the highlights of the Cyclades by ferry. This itinerary is perfect for those who are short on time but want to tick off a few key sights!

Before you travel, don’t forget to read my guides to what to wear in Greece . It’ll make your packing nice and simple!

The Ultimate 7-Day Greece Itinerary

Day 1: athens.

Many people arriving in Greece will fly into the international airport in Athens. If you’ve only got 7 days in Greece, and it’s your first time in Athens, you absolutely have to visit some of the key sights in the city. You’ll be surprised how much you can fit into one day!

First, we’re heading to Ancient Greece and up to the Acropolis archaeological site. Seeing iconic sights such as the Parthenon will remind you why you started your trip in this ancient city!

The monuments here date back to the 5th Century B.C If you like the hassle taken away from planning, you can book onto a guided tour of the Acropolis and really learn about the fascinating history of the Ancient Greeks. This special ticket allows you to skip the long queues too, so you can really make the most of your limited time in the city. Don’t miss a trip to the Acropolis Museum too.

Then it’s time to immerse all 5 senses as you take a wander to the Monastiraki neighbourhood. This is one of the oldest parts of Athens and is a great area for soaking up the city vibe. There are lots of places to eat and drink, as well as shops selling everything from antiques and jewellery to fresh vegetables and seafood.

Don’t miss a trip to Varvakios Agora, one of the city’s most famous markets. There’s a buzz here like nowhere else, with everything from ocean-fresh fish to deli counters packed full of yummy items.

While you might associate Athens with the ancient world, the city has become pretty urban and cool over the last 10 years, partly thanks to the bright, colourful murals all over the city. One of the best areas for street art is Psyri, in particular Sarri Street. From small pieces of graffiti to huge murals covering the sides of buildings, there’s art everywhere! If you want to learn more about the art scene in the city, I’d recommend booking onto a street art tour with a local.

In the evening, you’ve simply got to find a rooftop restaurant and enjoy some delicious Greek food while taking in the twinkly lights of the city. A few top choices include Electra Roof Garden, the Art Lounge at the NEW Hotel and Metropolis Roof Garden. Enjoying a cocktail with views of the Acropolis will round off your day in Athens in style!

Day 2-4: Mykonos

After an action-packed first day in Athens, wake up bright and early and head to Piraeus ferry terminal. From here you can catch a ferry to Mykonos. There’s usually a choice of a 2 hr 30 or 5 hr 15 hours crossing, with the fast ferry being a lot more expensive. I’d recommend reading my guide on how to get to Mykonos when you start planning your trip.

Mykonos is famed for its beautiful white towns, pretty windmills and party scene. It’s also got am upmarket side, so is great for couples looking for a luxury break too.

If you’re spending a few days in Mykonos, there are lots of options of things to do. You could spend a day relaxing on one of the island’s world-class beaches. If you like adventure, hire jet-skis and get out on the waves or rent a scooter to explore more of the island. If you’re planning a luxury holiday in Mykonos you could book a helicopter tour or a hot air balloon ride.

For a special lunch or dinner, book a table at Spilia Restaurant. Perched on the edge of the rocks, it’s in a stunning spot. It’s renowned for its tasty Mediterranean cuisine, which includes plenty of items caught metres away in the ocean. Feast on oysters, lobsters, mussels and whatever the fresh catch of the day is.

If you love wine, how about heading to Mykonos Vioma Organic Farm and Vineyard for a wine tasting tour. You’ll learn about the production, tasting techniques, plus enjoy some local produce too.

For a memorable end to the day, how about checking out these Greece boat charter options? Imagine booking a sunset cruise and watching the golden rays disappearing from on board your own private vessel!

Looking for hotels? I’ve rounded up some of the best places to stay in Mykonos .

Day 5-7: Santorini

It’s already day 5 of this 7-day Greece itinerary and now we’re off to Santorini. There are several ferry companies serving this route in peak season, and the crossing from Mykonos to Santorini takes just over 2 hours.

With soaring white cliffs that rise up from the turquoise sea and pretty white Cycladic houses, Santorini is one of the prettiest of all the Greek islands. In terms of things to do, it’s a little like Mykonos in that you can do as much or as little as you like!

I’d recommend taking yourself on a self-guided island tour. You could hire a car, bike or a scooter for a road trip to see the sights. It’s liberating to be able to get around at your own pace, and you’ll be able to visit lots of landmarks, including the old towns of Fira and Oia as well as hidden gems like Pyrgos, Emporio and Skaros Rock.  

Another great thing to do in Santorini is hike along the Fira Trail which leads from Fira to Oia. If you’re visiting during the warmer months of the year, I’d recommend planning this for the morning or early evening when it’s a little cooler. Even better, time it for sunset and you’ll enjoy some incredible views too!

One of the most unique things to do in Santorini is to visit the volcanic island of Nea Kameni. There are tours every day which take you to the active volcano where you can hike around the edge of it. The day trips stop at some hot springs after, plus you’ll get to enjoy some paradise views of Santorini from the water too.

For many, the highlight of visiting Santorini is the spectacular sunset view from Oia. However, the streets get really busy at this time, so if you have transport, you could venture elsewhere. The terrace at Santo Winery has a great panorama (and you can enjoy a glass of vino at the same time!) Alternatively, you could take a trip to the pretty hillside village of Imerovigli.

At the end of your trip, you could either catch a ferry back to Athens or another port in mainland Greece which will take a minimum of 5 hours, or you could head to Santorini Airport and fly home from there.  

Looking for hotels? I’ve rounded up some of the best places to stay in Santorini.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 7-day Greece itinerary. With so many ancient sites and stunning landscapes to explore (both on the mainland and the islands) there are plenty more ways you could spend a memorable week in Greece. Be sure to check out my other Greece travel guides for more travel tips.

• 9 Best Greek Islands For Couples To Visit
• The Ultimate 7-Day Greece Itinerary: Athens, Greek Island Hopping & More
• What To Wear In Greece For Women And Men: Greece Packing List
• Best Honeymoon Hotels In Mykonos
• The Best Honeymoon Hotels in Santorini
• How To Spend The Ultimate Weekend In Athens
• 15 Amazing Things To Do In Tinos, Greece
• 9 Best Luxury And Boutique Hotels In Crete, Greece

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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The Perfect 7 to 10 Day Greece Mainland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 21, 2024

by Olivia Ellis

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.

The islands typically tend to be the star of the show when visiting the ancient country of Greece.  This comes with good reason, as the Greek islands are truly stunning locations for any kind of traveler. Albeit, the mainland of Greece is a knockout destination that’s typically off the beaten path for any mainstream traveler. In this 7 to 10-day Greece mainland itinerary, expect waterfalls, mighty mountain ranges, medieval towns, bustling and exciting cities, and the mystical home of the Greek Gods.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around Mainland Greece

This route spans the majority of the mainland, from the southern Peloponnese to the northern city of Thessaloniki , so various modes of transport are possible as well as ideal. 

My recommendation is to hire a car and drive throughout your trip. The longest journey time is around 4 ½ hours making driving the easiest, most convenient, and most cost-efficient way to travel around the Greek mainland. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare options for hiring a car.

A mainland Greece road trip is one of the best ways to experience this relatively undiscovered part of the country by tourists.

If you’re planning on flying into Greece, I recommend flying into the Athens International Airport. The itinerary begins in the capital and it’s the main airport, making flights the most frequent and affordable in comparison to other airports in Greece. 

Another option for getting around on this mainland Greece itinerary is by bus. The KTEL bus system is essentially the national bus transport, connecting cities and towns throughout the country.

You can typically find routes for major cities or towns and sometimes smaller places if they’re frequently visited by tourists and locals.

Costs differ, so you can expect to pay between €5 and €25 depending on the route and although tickets can be affordable, if you choose to use the bus as a main means of transport throughout the country it can add up quickly.

Train transport is also another option, but the routes in Greece aren’t as extensive as in other countries in Europe. This means that there may be gaps in transportation, but those can be filled by bus.

The downside to taking bus or train transport is that if you’re hoping to visit more remote destinations in mainland Greece, it can be hard to make your way there from the main transport routes. These tickets can also easily add up to double the cost of a rental car, so keep this in mind if you’re torn between the two.

If you don’t like the idea of public transport or renting a car, you can also find tour groups that go to the majority of destinations, making it a seamless way to travel without the stress of driving or planning.

7 to 10-Day Greece Mainland Itinerary

The mainland of Greece is full of countless treasures. From the rustic mountains and quaint villages of central Greece and the Peloponnese to the hectic and exciting cities of Athens and Thessaloniki; you’re bound to discover countless new jewels in the most undiscovered part of Greece; the mainland.

While the islands are outstanding locations to visit on any dream itinerary, the best way to get to know the heart of Greece and everyday life is through the mainland. 

Day 1 – Athens

This mainland Greece itinerary begins with 2 days in the same place where modern democracy began as well as the capital city, Athens . You’ll likely be flying into the Athens International Airport, making the Greek capital a great and convenient starting point.

Athens is a great way to begin as you’ll have the opportunity to get your bearings in a new country, discover Greek foods, and see some of the most important ruins in ancient history.

Although the city is quite small, there’s an abundance of things to do. Because of this, you can decide to mold your time in different ways, from exploration of the Ancient Greek world to the cultural side of what makes modern-day Athens what it is today.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, make sure to not miss a visit to the Acropolis , a wander around the classic Greek neighborhood of Plaka , and a long wholesome meal at a classic Greek tavern.

Other ways to explore further into Athens are plentiful and unique; venture into the southern suburbs of Athens to explore Poseidon’s Temple in Cape Sounio or take a dip in the sea around an hour away from Athens at Schinias beach.

Where to Stay in Athens

Athens Ivy Suites – Located only 500 meters from Monastiraki Square, this hotel is an excellent central place to stay in the Greek capital. There are several rooms, a restaurant, a shared terrace, airport shuttle, breakfast and more to offer guests.

The Modernist Athens – A sleek and modern hotel in the Kolnaki neighborhood, this hotel has a range of cool rooms, private parking, a fitness centre and a superb buffet breakfast in the mornings.

101 Adrianou Apartments – These suites are excellent for those looking for a comfortable, central option. Situated within walking distance of Syntagma Square, there is daily housekeeping and incredible views of the city.

City Circus Athens – Boasting a terrace with an Acropolis view, this hostel is great for backpackers. There are great common areas for meeting other travellers and a range of dorms and privates to choose from.

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

Day 2 – Athens

Spend your second day in Athens getting to know the city a bit deeper. If you spent day one checking off all of the well-known highlights like the Acropolis and exploring some cool, central neighborhoods, consider taking in a museum or two on your second day – such as the Archaeological Museum or the Benaki Museum.

You could also opt to get a bit off the beaten path and explore some cool neighborhoods like Psyri and Monastiraki or even opt to go on a food tour , where you can learn about all of the Athenian specialities.

Day 3 – Nafplio and Epidaurus (Peloponnese) 

After getting acquainted with Greece in Athens, you’ll head south to the neighboring Peloponnese region.

The Peloponnese region is an alluring peninsula south of central Greece offering one of the most exciting and unique experiences in Greece. Although this itinerary only offers a taster of one day in the Peloponnese, I highly suggest exploring the region on a deeper level if you have the time.

With just one day in the Peloponnese, you’ll make your way first to the picturesque town of Nafplio. Nafplio is a coastal city in the Peloponnese offering idyllic views and architecture, wonderful food, and a pleasant place to experience the Peloponnese.

After, head about half an hour away to the ancient town of Epidaurus to explore the stunningly peaceful nature of the Peloponnese and the ancient ruins and theatre of the town of Epidaurus.

Where to Stay in Nafplio

Amymone and Adiandi – This quaint hotel in Nafplio is an excellent base for your first couple of days in the Peloponnese. They have a range of bright, clean and comfortable rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the town and the region.

Carpe Diem Boutique Hotel – For those looking for a hip place to stay in Naflplio, this boutique hotel is sure not to disappoint. They have a number of chic rooms on offer, breakfast available in the mornings and plenty of amenities to ensure your stay is fantastic.

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

Day 4 – Delphi

Day 4 of this road trip will bring you back through central Greece and to the legendary, and one of the most visited places on the mainland of Greece, the ancient site of Delphi.

Delphi is about 3 ½ hours away from Athens and on the way to Delphi, you’ll also pass through Ancient Corinth and the Corinth Canal connecting central Greece to the upper point of the Peloponnese. Alternatively, you could also visit the ancient site of Olympia, another incredible place in the Peloponnese.

If you have extra time and are particularly interested in ancient history, I recommend making a stop in Corinth to explore the ruins and the grand Corinth Canal and see the blue water of the Corinthian Gulf before heading to Delphi.

Delphi is the first stop in central Greece and once spending time there, you’ll quickly understand why it’s one of the most visited spots in Greece. Take time to explore the archaeological site and museum, witness the famous Temple of Apollo, and find yourself in awe of the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia.

Delphi is also an area of outstanding natural beauty, so even just spending a few hours in the area is a great chance to connect to nature. Afterwards, head to the nearby town of Arachova to enjoy a local meal for lunch. You could also visit the lovely village of Nafpaktos.

Where to Stay in Delphi

Arion Hotel – Located only about 200 metres from the archaeological site, this three-star guesthouse is a great choice. They have a number of cosy rooms on offer and an unbeatable location for exploring this area.

Amalia Hotel Delphi – This 4-star hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a bit more of a luxurious stay while visiting Delphi. They have several lovely, plush rooms on offer, a wonderful location and a great swimming pool to enjoy.

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

Day 5 – Meteora 

After leaving Arachova and Delphi, day 5 will take you about 3 ½ hours away to one of the best places to visit in all of Greece, Meteora. One of the highlights of taking the time to explore the Greek mainland is that you don’t have to make a choice between visiting Delphi or Meteora.

Meteora is easily one of the most outstanding places to visit in all of Greece, and with good reason. Located next to the small town of Kalambaka, the area is a striking formation of rocks sprawling from the earth with a collection of Byzantine Eastern Orthodox monasteries bravely sitting on top.

With the construction of these monasteries beginning in the 11th century, Meteora is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a gift for all who visit. During your stay, you can either hike to the monasteries or drive above to have easier access and saved time. 

Where to Stay near Meteora

Dellas Boutique Hotel – Mid-range travellers will love this 3-star boutique hotel when visiting Meteora. Located in the town of Kalambaka within easy reach of the monasteries, they have a number of lovely rooms to choose from that can suit all kinds of visitors.

Hotel Doupiani House – This is an excellent hotel for those looking for a comfortable and cosy mid-range option in Kalambaka. Well-poised for exploring the splendours of Meteora, they have many rooms to choose from and a great buffet breakfast available each morning.

Meteora Central Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this cosy hostel in Kalambaka. Well-located for exploring Meteora, they have a range of dorm beds and private rooms to choose from and good shared spaces and common areas to enjoy.

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

Day 6 – Zagori

Days 6 & 7 of this route will bring you closer to the northern Greek border and 3 hours from Meteora to the Pindus mountain range and region of Zagori.

The region of Zagori is a collection of around 40 villages cosily nestled in the Pindos mountains and full of tradition, rugged wilderness, and truly breathtaking scenery.

In Zagori, visit the striking Vikos Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world in the Vikos-Aoos National Park, enjoy one of the numerous hiking paths in the region and appreciate the unique Zagorian architecture spanning through the villages.

For accommodation, you’ll find all sorts of options from luxurious boutique hotels to affordable bed and breakfasts and mid-range hotel options.

Mainland Greece is truly a haven for nature lovers and Zagori is the prime destination for those looking for a stay off the beaten path.

Where to Stay in Zagori

Guesthouse Gouris – This cosy guesthouse is perfect for mid-range travellers visiting the beautiful Zagori region. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from that feature local rugs and handicrafts and there is also a wonderful breakfast available each morning.

Aberratio Boutique Hotel – Located in the village of Aristi, this boutique hotel is an excellent choice for those looking for a more upmarket place to stay in the Zagori region. They have a number of swanky rooms on offer and an incredibly beautiful location for guests to enjoy.

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

Day 7 – Zagori

On your second day in the Zagori, take a bit more time to explore some of the places you didn’t make it to on the first day. Enjoy the laid-back nature and stunning scenery of the area and get active on a few of the many hiking trails you can find.

If you’re following the 7-day itinerary rather than 10, this day will conclude your trip. Either head onward in Greece to your following destination or head back to Athens to fly onward. 

Day 8 – Mount Olympus

After spending time in the pristine Zagori region, you’ll head northwest to one of the most famous areas in Greece and one of the most famous mountains in the world, Mount Olympus.

Mount Olympus is about a 3-hour drive away from Zagori and although the hike to the top in its entirety is only recommended for well-experienced travelers, you can still enjoy the famous scenery with a nice hike and time in the nearby villages.

Although its fame is due to being the home of the Greek Gods, it is the first national park in Greece and one with some of the most diverse flora and fauna in the country.

The town of Litochoro is located at the foot of Mount Olympus and is a great spot to base yourself to explore the mountain and have a start on many of the trails.

The town itself dates back to the 14th century, has plenty of appetizing restaurants, and still has abundant Macedonian architecture throughout the town offering a unique glimpse into the region and its history.

Where to Stay near Mt Olympus

Kallisto Traditional Guesthouse – Located in the town of Litochoro, this rustic guesthouse is perfect for those looking for a comfortable and traditional place to stay near Mt Olympus. They have a number of cosy rooms on offer and a great location for exploring the region.

To Palio Litochoro – This lovely guesthouse located in Litochoro is an excellent choice for those looking for a great place to stay in the foothills of Mt Olympus. They have a number of great rooms on offer, a beautiful setting and a perfect location in the centre of the village.

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

Day 9 – Thessaloniki

While the majority of this trip is amongst nature and smaller Greek villages and towns, the last stop for those spending the full 10 days on this Greece mainland itinerary is the second biggest city in Greece, Thessaloniki .

The city itself is about a 2 1⁄2 hour drive away from Mount Olympus and within the city, you’ll find the wonder of the proud Greek mountainous treasure keeping watch over Thessaloniki. The city itself is typically quite overlooked on any Greek itinerary but is worth the visit in its own right.

From the gritty Balkan architecture, to what’s known as the best food scene in Greece, Thessaloniki is easily one of the most underrated destinations on the Greece mainland.

During your visit, make sure to have a fresh bougatsa from a local bakery (a specialty pastry originating in Thessaloniki), wander the seafront and port, stop by the White Tower, and wander through Ladadika, Thessaloniki’s old town as well as Morichovou Square.

Where to Stay in Thessaloniki

Blue Bottle Boutique Hotel – A funky mid0rang hotel in the center of Thessaloniki, there are plenty of bright rooms to choose from, a great breakfast and private parking available to guests.

Teight Hotel – A luxe and modern hotel within easy reach of the top Thessaloniki attractions, this place boasts an on-site bar, room service, great breakfast and a range of spacious rooms on offer.

Zeus is Loose Hostel – A very highly-rated hostel perfect for backpackers and budget travellers, there are lots of dorms (and private rooms) here, great common areas, kitchen facilities and an excellent atmosphere for guests.

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

Day 10 – Thessaloniki

Spend your final day in Thessaloniki (and the final day of this 10-day Mainland Greece itinerary) digging deeper and really getting to know Greece’s second city.

Take the time to explore some cool neighborhoods, take a lot of leisurely strolls along the waterfront or, perhaps, take a food tour to learn more about the gastronomic scene in this “foodie” city.

Thessaloniki also has one of the largest airports in Greece offering routes connecting to the rest of Europe, making it the perfect departure point at the end of this trip. You can also reach other Balkan destinations from the city, as it’s easy to get from Thessaloniki to Sofia, Bulgaria and other neighbouring countries.

Have More Time?

If you have more time to spend, there are plenty of other points of interest worth visiting.

If you’re keen on exploring deeper into the Peloponnese, you can easily tack on another few days or week and head further south into the region, discovering Ancient Sparta, the crystalline Mani Peninsula, and the Medieval island town of Monemvasia with its beautiful Venetian castle.

After visiting the towns of Zagori, head to Ioannina, the capital city of the Zagori region, to enjoy one of the oldest lakes in the world, Lake Pamvotis.

For those interested in exploring a different region of mainland Greece, I suggest making your way to Volos, a port city in the region of Thessaly full of history, culture, delicious cuisine and the gateway to the neighboring Northern Sporades islands, Skiathos and Skopelos.

Whether or not the mainland of Greece has already been on your dream travel list, it’s undoubtedly a destination that you’ll discover is full of abundance. You’ll explore deep parts of Ancient history, get lost in Greece’s wilderness, and experience what life is like in the country’s biggest cities and smallest towns.

Spending 7 days or more in this part of Greece before hopping over to the islands is a great way to discover Greek culture and Greece without hoards of tourists. 

Are you planning to explore mainland Greece? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Naxos or Paros: Which Greek Island to Visit?

Delphi vs Meteora: Choosing an Athens Day Trip

The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Athens Itinerary

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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A Sunny Itinerary for 7 Days in Greece

You hear the word ‘Greece’, and you are instantly transported to a scene of jaw-dropping sunsets, white-washed buildings and pristine beaches all fronted by the impeccably beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Alternatively, perhaps for you, Greece’s ancient history, sun-bleached historical ruins and socially-spirited locals spring to mind. The beauty of Greece is that it is everyone’s perfect destination. 

As the wise proverb goes ‘ a full stomach makes a happy heart ‘, Greeks certainly abide by this. The core of Greek cuisine sits in over 4,000 years of time-honoured recipes, fresh local ingredients and a twist on the Mediterranean palette. Olive oil is the essential condiment, accompaniment and base to regional dishes throughout the country. However, it’s the variation of each region’s recipes, cooking styles and local produce that make travelling Greece a culinary adventure. Influenced by its Mediterranean counterparts, Greek cuisine takes the best parts of the land and sea to deliver a delicious array of dishes which often form the backbone of your trip. 

The best Greece itinerary, 7 days or longer, is sure to have you stepping foot on one of the country’s 227 inhabited islands. Whether you’re looking to hike up dormant volcanoes, wander through cobblestone old town streets and ramble through olive groves and vineyards, the Greek isles deliver. That’s before you’ve stepped foot on one of the pristine, white-sand beaches fringed by spectacularly clear waters. Dedicated beach bums, keen thrill-seekers and history buffs will all find contentment on the islands. 

For an alternative 7-day trip to Greece, stick to the mainland and you’ll discover that the roots of western civilisation were planted in Greece. Marvel at the monasteries reached by rock-hewn steps atop towering monoliths, step into the very ring where the first Olympians competed and marvel at the grandiosity of Delphi. While many will rush to the islands on their 7-day trip to Greece, there’s much to be discovered on a Greece mainland itinerary. 

Whatever takes your fancy, you can combine in all to create your perfect trip to Greece . 

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Post Contents

Day 1 – Welcome to Athens

Day 2 – tour of athens & catch the ferry to paros, day 3 – discover paros, day 4 – cruise to naxos, day 5 – guided tour of naxos, day 6 – final morning on naxos & return ferry to athens, day 7 – end of your 7-day greek itinerary, 1. step foot in the panathenaic stadium in athens, 2. hike the longest gorge in europe in crete, 3. indulge in mediterranean cuisine, 4. watch the sunset in santorini, 5. visit ancient olympia, the birthplace of the olympics and one of the seven wonders of the ancient world, 6. marvel at the monasteries of meteora, 7. sail the greek islands, want to design your own greece trip, your sun-soaked 7-day greece itinerary.

Perfectly blending the Greek islands with an Athens itinerary, this 7-day trip begins in the capital city and makes its way to the lesser-known -but no less spectacular- islands of Naxos and Paros. This is a Greece 7-day tour that effortlessly combines ancient history, authentic scenic beauty and the highlights of Greek culture.

Your 7-day Greece travel itinerary begins in Europe’s historical capital, Athens. Inhabited since the Neolithic age, Athens is easily one of the world’s most emblematic cities. Touring Athens is like taking a journey back in time over 3,000 years. You can use this first afternoon to explore the city on your own and find the perfect little tavern to while away the evening. 

The rest of your 7 days will be spent on a Greek island-hopping itinerary, heading to two of the most authentically beautiful Cycladic islands, Paros and Naxos. Before you catch the ferry to Naxos, you’ll spend the morning on a sightseeing tour of Athens, observing the striking contrasts that make Athens the fascinating city it is. You’ll tick off the Panathenaic Stadium, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, Hadrian’s Arch, Parliament, the National Library, Constitution Square and the Acropolis before heading to Paros.

Today on your 7-day tour of Greece, you’ll explore the island of Paros with a local guide. Picturesque golden beaches, traditional old town Cycladic architecture and its old churches are just a handful of the things that make Paros Island so special. You’ll stroll the cobbled streets of 13th-century old towns, visit one of the oldest churches in Greece, visit traditional villages, take in breathtaking views, lounge on some of the island’s best beaches and more on this discovery tour. 

Today, your driver will transfer you to the port to catch your one-hour ferry to Naxos. Offering a unique insight into Greek history, Naxos is a wonderful island of white-washed buildings, Venetian architecture representative of the several-century rule and typical Greek atmosphere. You’ll have the remainder of the day to explore the island on your own; head to the beaches, find a traditional tavern with your name on it or take one of the hiking trails to a secluded viewpoint.

In just one day, you and your accompanying local guide can cover a breadth of destinations in Naxos. Beginning in the town, you’ll make your way through traditional island villages, pottery shops and pristine beaches. You’ll weave through streets lined with Byzantine churches, distilleries and Venetian mansions. A highlight of your 7-day Greece itinerary will be when you stop for lunch and a swim in the northern village of Apollonas before heading back down the coastal road to your hotel. 

Your island-hopping itinerary in Greece comes to an end today as you prepare to travel back to Athens. The ferry takes 4.5 hours, and when you arrive, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. As it’s your last night of your Greek islands and Athens itinerary, it is the perfect time to experience the famous Athens nightlife! Athenians know how to party; in the city, there’s an excellent range of bars, restaurants and clubs to enjoy. 

Today, your wonderful Greece tour comes to an end. You’ll have the morning free to explore, pick up some last-minute souvenirs or spend some time in the sun before you driver takes you to the airport for your departing flight. 

Bucket-List Tickers: 7 Things You Have To Do in Greece

Greece presents a never-ending list of things to see and do. With thousands of islands to explore, several millennia of history to delve into and traditions that demand your attention and tastebuds, to see everything in Greece, you would need several months. However, without that time, you can use this list to begin planning your best 7-day itinerary in Greece!

One of the most significant historical monuments in the whole of Greece, the Panathenaic Stadium held the first modern Olympic Games in 1896. Every four years since, the Olympic flame starts its journey from this very stadium to the cities of the Olympic Games, both summer and winter. On this 7-day Athens Greece itinerary , you’ll spend a week on a discovery tour of the iconic sites of Athens and its surroundings. 

Home to 400 gorges dotted all over, hiking in Crete is a unique way to explore the island. One of the hikes that you should not miss is the impressive Samaria Gorge, regarded as a sacred place by many locals. Throughout the hike, you’ll encounter wildflowers, remnants of pretty villages and even the protected Cretan wild goat. You can take on this famous trail as well as many others on your very own Crete itinerary of 7 days or more. 

If you want to uncover the true delights of this country, then your 7-day itinerary in Greece should be solely planned around authentic Greek gastronomy. A country renowned for culinary delights, each region in Greece boasts its own cuisine, taking historical influence from its neighbours and making them it’s own. Head out with a local on an Athens food tour, cooking with a Greek family in Naxos and embark on a sunset wine and dine cruise in Santorini on this Greece tour for foodies !

A Greece honeymoon itinerary doesn’t get more romantic than this! Santorini is an island renowned for its dramatic volcanic scenery, stunning cliff setting and unparalleled sunset views. On this honeymoon itinerary for Greece , you’ll split your time between two of the country’s most romantic destinations, Athens and Santorini. You’ll bring your memorable trip to an end with a unique catamaran experience sailing close to the white-washed island’s magnificent caldera cliffs at sunset! 

Set in the picturesque valley of the Alpheios River, the ancient site of Olympia is one of the celebrated sanctuaries of ancient Greece. Dedicated to the Greek god, Zeus, Olympia has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The original birthplace of the Olympics, you can visit the Stadium of Olympic where the original Olympic Games were held from 776 BC onwards. Olympia is one of the best places to see in Greece in 7 days and should definitely be on your itinerary of mainland Greece.

Embark on a 7-day road trip of Greece and discover the cradle of western civilisation, philosophy and science in the country’s historical monuments, ancient cities and UNESCO-listed sites. On this ancient Greece tour, you’ll visit the sites of Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia, Delphi and the spectacular rock-topping monasteries of Meteora. No Greece mainland itinerary of 7 days is complete without visiting these breathtaking Byzantine monasteries sat atop majestic monoliths!

Okay, admittedly, this one is a bit of a cheat because on a Greek Islands sailing trip, you are sure to cover numerous bucket-list ticking destinations and sights! However, it seems entirely fitting for this list. If you find yourself on one of the many magical islands in this country, it is imperative that you carve out a little time, even if it is just an afternoon, for a Greek sailing tour . 

“There’s so much to see, how do I fit it all in?”

If that’s something you’re asking yourself, then take the hassle out of trying to plan your dream trip to Greece by connecting with one of our Local Designers in Greece and let them do the planning for you. With years of experience designing custom itineraries, our Local Designers can take your budget, activity wishlist and travel preferences and deliver a dream 7-day Greece itinerary!

Browse our gallery of over 70 customisable Greece tours or use our special feature to ‘ design your own Greece trip ‘ and connect with one of our Local Designers to let them do the rest. It’s that simple!

Grace Homer

At my desk, you'll find me tapping out inspiring adventures, finessing incredible trips designed by Local Designers and focussing on all things content. Having lived in Southeast Asia between Vietnam and Bali for three years, I'm now keeping toasty with a cuppa in a little English town planning future adventures for which I have constant inspiration. Offline, there's nothing I enjoy more than long cycle rides, fueling the foodie in me and seeking out new spots - preferably all at the same time. Find me on LinkedIn or Instagram and keep an eye out for travel inspiration here!

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A Greece itinerary for the ultimate summer holiday

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

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

In this article

How to get to Greece?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*As of March 2024, source: numbeo.com

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

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

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

Day 1 & 2: Thessaloniki

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

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

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

Beach promenade

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

Museum of Photography & Port

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

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

Day 3 & 4: Kavala

Distance from Thessaloniki: 95 mi - less than 2 hours

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

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

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

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

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

Mud Bath of Krinides

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

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

Day 5 & 6: Thassos

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

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

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

Marble Beach

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

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

Island boat trip

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

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

Day 7: Thessaloniki

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 & 2: Athens

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 3-6: Crete

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

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

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

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

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

Botanical Park & Gardens of Grete

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

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

Balos Beach

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

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

Day 7-9: Santorini

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

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

Wine tasting

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

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

Volcano visit

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

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

Day 10: Athens

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

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

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

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

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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.

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