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2 WEEKS IN GREECE

Most first time visitors to Greece quickly realise why most people return again and again. With so much to see and do and so much diversity across the mainland and the different groups of islands its impossible to see much in a short time. But if you only have 2 weeks in Greece for your first visit it is possible to cover a lot of ground and ensure you be planning your next visit before you’ve even left!

There are 6 island groups –   the Cyclades , the   Dodacannese , the   Saronic islands , the   Sporades Islands , the   Northern Aegean islands, the Ionian Islands , and   Crete,   so island hopping in the Greek Islands might be popular but it does require some research, as most of these groups do not connect with each other by ferry or flights.

Here’s our suggested itinerary that will allow you to visit two island groups and Athens . I’ve chosen Greek islands that are popular with 1st timers but also give you a fair bit of diversity. You may also want to read The Best Greek Islands for families or The Best Greek Islands for Couples as well. 

  PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE?

Whether you’ve been before or it’s your first time it can be hard to process all the information out there. Be sure to check out our complete Planning Guide as well as our FREE 13-page downloadable itinerary.

If you are feeling really overwhelmed you might like a Trip Consultation perhaps!?

And come join our private Facebook Group where you can ask questions and get advice from real travellers!

When to visit Greece

The best times to visit Greece are April-June and September-October. The weather will be a bit milder and it will be less crowded.

High season is late June to early September, and prices will reflect that as will the crowds, the number of cruise ships and accommodation availability. In saying that Summer is not exactly terrible especially in some of the lesser-known spots. The water is warmer, there are blue skies every day and a fabulous holiday atmosphere as Greece is at its absolute prime.

They say this is when the Gods smile the most and even in the most popular tourist towns and islands it’s easy to find a quiet spot, a cove, beach, laneway or entire village that retains complete authenticity year-round.

Orthodox Easter is an especially wonderful time to visit Greece as it becomes very festive with parades, parties, and on many islands bonfires, fireworks and other activities and traditions.

There are other festivals throughout the year that can vary from place to place and can be quite incredible.

Best beach and swimming weather: June to September Best sightseeing weather: March to June and September/October  

2 Weeks in Greece – Logistics and order

Many people have Athens as their first destination when visiting Greece. We recommend flying straight through to your furthest island and leaving Athens until the end, for several reasons:

1. You need to be back on the Mainland at least one night before your international flight home to give yourself a buffer in case of ferry or flight cancellations. You could do a few days in Athens at the beginning and one at the end, but the airport is a long way from the ancient centre so you will save time and money if you do it all in one block at the end.

• Yes, you’ve possibly just done a long international flight. So what’s one more hour? In fact, Santorini is only a 40-minute flight. Get all your airport stress over and done with and out of the way.
• It’s so much nicer to wake up, jetlagged, on a Greek island, than in a big, crazy city.
• The shopping in Athens is fantastic. Don’t drag all your shopping around with you. Do it all at the end. This way you can also realistically pack just a carryon for a week or two ( or 5 in my case) and check a box, duffel or cheap suitcase home, packed with goodies.
• You cannot fly between most Greek Islands. By flying to your furthest ones you are then likely to have fairly short ferry trips between islands.

Day 1-5 Santorini itinerary

Santorini is a bucket list destination for most people and for good reason. Despite the cruise ships and the crowds it remains one of those places that not only meets your expectations but probably exceeds it.

If you choose where to stay carefully you can enjoy your own jaw dropping views over the Caldera and have a place where you can escape from the day trippers. It can get a bit crazy when the cruise ships come in each day so a room with a pool and terrace makes for a great escape for an afternoon siesta and sundowner’s. When you reemerge for dinner most of the tourists will have floated away !

We really enjoyed staying in Oia which is considered the most picturesque village, although several friends have also enjoyed Imerovigli which is about a 20 minute walk along the nice flat footpath that runs along the Caldera seam. There is a surprising amount of things to do on Santorini with  beaches, wineries, hot springs, great shopping and some of the worlds most iconic and photographed sunsets. Try and do a sunset cruise where you can avoid the crowds and still get absolutely mesmerising views.

We loved everything about staying at  Armeni Village  – fantastic location, great service, stunning views and lovely cave rooms that were well priced compared to many.

• Day 1   Arrive and explore Oia. Book a restaurant like Strogili for dinner at sunset.
• Day 2   Do a highlights tour including wine tasting and sunset. If you’re up for it then take in The Greek Wedding Show too!
• Day 3   Visit Akrotiri , Greece’s Pompeii, and red beach. Follow it up with the 9D Atlantis Experience and, if time permits, a few wineries as well.

Further reading : 3 days in Santorini – a complete itinerary

DAY 8-11 Milos itinerary

We spent 5 days on Milos and loved every minute of it.

We’ve sent many friends since and will definitely be returning. It’s a special place – whilst part of the Cyclades it is quite unique in many ways and luckily unable to get very busy YET with little development and still under the radar of most cruise ships and big tour groups.

3 days will allow you to get a good feel for Milos and you should be able to see most of the best sites.

We stayed in the beach ‘resort’ village ( I use the term resort loosely as it is still pretty quiet ) of Pollonia and would again. It has a lovely village atmosphere, a decent number of beachfront tavernas and shops and a laid back friendly vibe.

We stayed at Unique Milos Suites but there are a few other great accommodation options as well.

• Day 8 arrive and explore Pollonia
• Day 9  explore the island on a guided tour and learn about the culture and geology
• Day 10 half-day cruise to Kleftiko and hang out at southern beaches
• Day 11 transfer to Athens 

Athens, of course, is the capital of Greece and home to some of the most iconic and important historical sites and monuments in the world. It is a big, pale, sprawling metropolis which offers a lot for visitors and is worth a 3-day visit as a minimum, but more if you can manage it.

You have a lot of options to get to Athens which cover by air, sea, rail, driving and even on foot!

Apart from the many things you can do in Athens itself it is also feasible to do a day trip to Meteora & Delphi and/or Olympia although Meteora is a long day. You can also catch the ferries out to the Saronic islands which are really lovely. We especially like Hydra which has no cars or scooters and was home to the acclaimed musician Leonard Cohen and many famous playwrights, the original ‘bohemians’ for over 20 years. There is a well priced 1 day cruise that takes in Aegina , Poros, Hydra and Spetses as well.

Athens itself has great shopping ( don’t miss the huge department store, Attica), incredible food and a lively night-time scene with thousands of tavernas and cafes to choose from. There are a lot of new hotels and restaurants many with incredible rooftop views , especially of the Acropolis . The Acropolis museum is world-class and needs to be enjoyed either before or after visiting The Acropolis itself, but there are many other excellent Museums too – the highest number per capita in Europe!

Athens is pretty compact and very walk-able so most people like to choose a place to stay either in Plaka or around Monastiraki or Syntagma Square’s. We also like Psiri which reminds people a lot of Melbourne. All of these however are an easy 15-minute stroll between each other so you can’t go wrong.

One of our favourite places to stay is Zillers Hotel. Beautiful rooms right on Mitropoleos street which is one of the main dining streets of Athens and runs parallel with the main pedestrian shopping street of Ermou. It has a fabulous rooftop bar and restaurant and is really very inexpensive for what you get. They only have 6 rooms though so book early!

I also love the new Ergon House which is part of the world-famous delicatessen and restaurant and is the first ‘foodie’ hotel in Athens.

• Day 11 Arrive and explore the inner city areas of Plaka, Syntagma and Monastaraki. Probably some shopping.
• Day 12 Acropolis, Acropolis Museum , Agora and other ancient sites – complete guide HERE.
• Day 13 Day trip to Delphi /Olympia/Corinth or the Saronic islands
• Day 14 Walking food tour of Athens, more shopping and home

With this itinerary you will spend 2 weeks in Greece visiting 5 islands, and possibly more depending on what day trips you choose from Athens, as well as spending time in and around the fascinating ancient capital.

You will take in stunning vistas, fascinating historical sites, and information, hang out at beautiful beaches, visit medieval villages and world-class wineries. You will see authentic fishing villages, sail on the clearest azure water you’ve ever seen and indulge in some of the best food and nightlife on the planet.

Not bad for just 14 days in Greece. I guarantee you will love every minute!

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.

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Welcome to Greece Travel Secrets! I’m Sandy, a tragic Grecophile married to a Greek, hoping to help you have the best possible trip to Greece. We want you to experience the famous Greek ‘Filotimo’ before you even get there.

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Amazing Vacation in Greece

Amazing Vacation in Greece: We had the most amazing October vacation in Athens and Santorini thanks to Faye Mantzari and the Travelive team. Every detail was well thought out and handled professionally. The hidden gem experiences planned for us were things we never knew we needed to see or do and we wouldn't have changed a bit of it. Thank you for the fantastic experience. We can't wait to travel with you again.

Date of experience : February 15, 2022

We enjoyed our Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete trip!

Our vacation was well organized and very enjoyable. The travel agent that we worked with, Renata, was quick to answer any of our questions before the trip and made sure any issues that we had during the trip were addressed promptly. As a personal note, do be sure to research what you would like to do and where you would like to stay thoroughly before booking. I did not make my desire to be on/near the beach very clear and we only had easy beach access while staying in Mykonos. I did express my desire for great views, and we could not have asked for a better view than what we had in Santorini! If you do choose to stay in Crete I do not recommend Elounda Palms...it was very far away from any restaurants, shops, etc. and the front desk told us that buses and cabs would not take us to beaches and we would have to rent a car if we wanted to go anywhere. Also, upon checkout at this same hotel (we were being picked up at 6:15AM to catch our flight to Athens) we were told that the front desk staff didn't arrive until 7:00 AM and we weren't supposed to check out until then. Luckily we hadn't charged anything to our room because we were also told that if there were charges we COULDN'T check out until someone arrived at the front desk. Needless to say we were disappointed in this particular hotel, but the others (ESPECIALLY in Mykonos) were wonderful with helpful and knowledgeable staff. All in all we had a lovely and memorable trip. Working with this company made everything go very smoothly. Any time we arrived at a new location we had someone waiting to greet us and take us where we needed to go, which is a very comforting thing on vacation!

Date of experience : June 28, 2015

Reply from Travel2greece

Hi Amy, I was happy to hear that you enjoyed your vacation in Greece! We are pleased to know that you had a lovely and memorable experience and enjoyed the beaches of Mykonos and the views in Santorini. It is unfortunately that Crete did not live us to your expectations. The experience that you painted does indeed point to a level of service that is lacking. We would have liked to have had the opportunity to correct this problem while you were in Crete. A phone call or our 24/7 line would have given us the ability to seek an alternative solution for you. We realize that it is too late at this point to correct the experience in Crete and we will certainly review this with the hotel management. Thank you for sharing your experience of Greece. We appreciate your trusting us with your lifetime memories! Best, Renata

Amazing trip to Greece

Our trip to Greece was amazing. We were satisfied with transport and hotels. Very high service. We enjoyed our vacation and time spent in Greece. we definitely recommend

Date of experience : December 13, 2021

Outstanding experience.

Everything was planned to perfection. Nothing went wrong over 11 days, multiple locations, several pre-planned tours. Sunset oia catamaran cruise unbelievable!! Would use luxury travel2greece for every trip I ever take.

Date of experience : January 24, 2016

This is how to visit Greece

We were so fortunate to have found Travelive for our visit to Greece! Everything they arranged exceeded our expectations, from the tours and hotels they selected to the transfers. Tour guides were knowledgeable, fun, and friendly, hotels were first rate, and the transfer drivers were fun, efficient, and also informative. For us, a trip like this is a special event in our lives. Our trip with Travelive was positively memorable. The only dilemma we face is whether to return to Greece with them, or try one of their other destinations.

Date of experience : July 27, 2016

Perfect, professional planned trip

We just returned from a vacation in Greece. We spent two weeks and traveled to Athens as well as Santorini and Mykonos. Travel2Greece handled all the details for the hotels, transfers and tours. We have traveled extensively throughout the world for almost 50 years and rarely use a travel agency. After our experience with Travel2Greece, we are convinced the convenience and seamless experience we enjoyed may change our minds for future trips. Their knowledge of the country and choices of hotels provided a perfect plan for our trip and the venues were all tailored to our tastes and wants. Communication was very easy and we always received attention to every request we made. In all, a first class experience from a professional agency with skilled and friendly service.

Date of experience : September 20, 2015

Perfect in every way!!

We booked a ten day trip to Greece and every single thing was perfect. Nico handled the details and everything went incredibly smooth. His suggestions were so helpful and appropriate. We visited Athens, Mykonos and Santorini. Each destination was outstanding in different ways. The hotels were wonderful and in great convenient locations. The walking tour of Athens was incredible and our guide was personable and informative. We loved the wine and food tour in Santorini. I would recommend Travel2Greece and Nico C to everyone. It was such a relief to have everything taken care of for us and then have it all play out so well. We appreciate all you did to make this such an incredible vacation. Thank you so very much!!

Date of experience : June 23, 2015

Travel2greece provided us with excellent service!

Travel2greece made our vacation run very smoothly. They provided us with top notch transportation service that was always on time. Our tour guide at the Acropolis was excellent. The Sunset Cruise in Santorini was absolutely fabulous, definitely a highlight of our trip. Because our trip went so well, I now would like to return to Greece, and perhaps go to some different islands. Our experience was terrific.

Date of experience : July 28, 2015

Most Amazing Holiday EVER!

Hi Mina, I just wanted to thank you and your team (Jeanne, Elana and Isidora) for the most amazing holiday Glen and I have ever had! Everything was top notch and absolutely exceeded our expectations.We have told ALL our friends and family to not only go to Greece, but to book through Travelive. We couldn't have been more pleased, more relaxed,or more impressed by the entire experience. Many, many thanks again! Will be sure to book our next big adventure through you! Take care! Julie Vogler & Glen McCrabb

Date of experience : June 25, 2015

Trip of a Lifetime!!!!!!!

OMG!!!!!!! Jeanne Amerin, Travel Consultant with Travel Live, did an AMAZING JOB! planning our ladies getaway to Greece. When we arrived in Athens, we were greeted by a friendly driver and first class transportation accommodations. Our hotel was PLUSH!!!!!! The New Hotel was centrally located and in walking distance to all major shopping and dining. Jeanne arranged a private guided tour of the Acropolis, Acropolis museum and PLAKA. Day 3 we were off to Mykonos!!!!! Jeanne stikes again!!!! The Petasos Resort and Spa provided 5 star luxury treatment. If you want to live like a celebrity for a a few days, Mykonos is the spot. Day 6...... Santorini! Jeanne planned a catamaran cruise where we sailed the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. Our captian was hilarious and the chef prepared the most delicious meal. Truly a trip of a lifetime. Thanks Jeanne!!!! You made out ladies getaway memorable and stress free!!!

Date of experience : July 01, 2016

Family vacation

We have just returned from Greece and Santorini. I worked with Jeanne Armein as the agent. She did a marvelous job putting our trip together. We traveled with our two daughters and their husbands. Our hotels were within walking distance of the sights in Athens. They were very clean and the staff pleasant. Our tour guides were very knowledgeable. All transportation was as per the itinerary. Jeanne assisted with restaurant reservations. In SAntorini, we stayed at the Bellvedere. The staff was very pleasant and again we were able to walk to restaurants. We flew from Santorini back to Athens and were assisted with our connecting flight back to the states. Any concerns were addressed promptly. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone planning a trip to Greece.

Date of experience : June 19, 2016

Well Greeced

From my first call to Travel2Greece I knew I was in very good hands. Marina was wonderful in so many ways. Her advice was spot on. Marina was patient knowledgeable and very helpful in planning first my daughters honeymoon and then our visit to Greece with 2 other couples. We had the pleasure of meeting Marina in Athens and thanked her in person for all her good work. Everyone I spoke with at the agency was lovely and helpful. I highly recommend Travel 2Greece. Sincerely Joan Karch

Date of experience : May 08, 2015

Exceeded All Expectations

I can only hope to convey just how satisfied I was with this travel company, travel consultant, and itinerary. Travelive (Travel2Greece) and Deborah Haile (Travel Consultant) exceeded all of my expectations. Deborah was always responsive and an absolute pleasure to work with. She was never rude or unaccommodating, and she worked hard to put together the perfect itinerary for my trip. Athens --> Mykonos --> Santorini The lodging/accommodations, ground transportation, food/dining, tours/excursions, and domestic travel was absolutely perfect. We were so impressed with the level of service, luxury, and "value" for what we invested. We are already planning our plans for 2018 and will use this group any time we plan to travel to the Mediterranean. Pamela Jasper

Date of experience : October 09, 2017

I would like to highly recommend …

I would like to highly recommend Travelive (Kostas Vradis) if you are planning to travel to Greece. Our trip was for 10 days and everyday was amazing. We were extremely pleased with the hotels, tours, transportation, etc. Everything went smoothly and on time. I can't believe that someone whom I have never met was able to plan such a perfect trip for us.This was a dream vacation. Greece is gorgeous and the locals are very friendly. Ileana Helwig May 2017

Date of experience : May 31, 2017

Travel2Greece to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini

Travel2Greece (Faye was our travel agent) did a great job planning our trip to Greece! We went to Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. All our hotels were great, and our rooms everywhere had amazing views. The view of the caldera from the Homeric Poems in Santorini was particularly beautiful. It was nice to have our hotel rooms booked near each other (we hadn’t even thought to request that). All the pick-ups, drop-offs, and transfers were always on time and efficient. In addition, when there was a plane delay the transfer services were on top of it without us having to notify them. Faye also recommended some great restaurants. The only issue we had during our trip was that our hotel in Satornini did not have a room with two beds for our first night as we requested. However, Travel2 Greece was helpful in resolving this issue. I highly recommended Travel2Greece, and would use them again.

Truly unforgettable!

Our experience in Greece was unbelievable! We were a little aprehensive in the beginning, 1) because we had never traveled overseas and 2) having someone else take over the reservations and everything that goes into planning a trip (I am a control freak and I like to do everything myself)...but truly I was very pleased with how smooth the entire trip was. Our hotels were amazing, the staff at the hotels were so friendly and always had a smile on their face! The NJV Athens Plaza Hotel was incredible! It was near everything and we literally could walk anywhere! It was perfect! In Santorini we stayed at the Belverdere Hotel, friendliest staff ever! Renata our travel agent helped us put together the sight seeing in Athens and the AMAZING cruise in Santorini! Both were very enjoyable but we loved the cruise and the swimming the amazing dinner and especially enjoying the beautiful sunset at the end of the cruise!! This was exactly what I wanted in a trip, NO STRESS (Renata took care of everything!), total relaxation and amazement at how beautiful Greece is!

Date of experience : May 27, 2015

BEST VACATION EVER!!!!

My husband and I travelled to Greece in September of 2016 with another couple. We had the best vacation of our lives. We were assisted from day 1 of our travel planning by Faye Mantzari of Travelive. When I say assisted, I mean that we told Faye what we were looking for, in general terms, and she did EVERYTHING else on our behalf. She arranged transfers from all airports, ports, etc., to and from hotels. These went seamlessly. She booked all our hotels. They were magnificent with amazing accommodations and excellent staff. She booked some excursions for us; also excellent. She recommended restaurants. Again, wonderful! I am ecstatic that we found Fay and that she assisted us with this entire trip. It was a vacation of a lifetime; one I, my husband and friends will never forget. I would not hesitate to use Faye again for another trip and would recommend her wholeheartedly to anyone looking for assistance with vacation planning.

Date of experience : October 17, 2016

Happiness found in no hassel travel arrangements.

Faye our travel agent has been so patient with the numerous arrangements and changes. This is our second experience with Faye. First our trip To Italy and this time to Turkey and Greece. On line travel arrangement easier than a travel agent who has not the hands on approach as Faye.

Date of experience : April 09, 2015

Special thanks too Faye Mandzari. This was an amazing well organized company too deal with . At first I was a bit nervous booking with a agent from Athens when I am in Canada but I really don't think any agent in Canada could have done what they did for us. They really took care of us so many miles from home.. we're completely aware of us and our needs. Everyone wentry above and beyond to assist us . When I emailed they responded immediately. I would definitely recommend any agent from this company and will use them again. Thanks to everyone to helped us you made the trip wonderful and felt supported every day we were there . Susan Gray toronto Canada

Date of experience : October 01, 2016

Greece amazng

Its good service which get you to great country!

Date of experience : September 08, 2016

2 Weeks in Greece: 4 Itineraries

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

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

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

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

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

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

BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION FOR GREECE

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

When is the best time to travel to Greece

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

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

Are 2 weeks enough for Greece

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

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

How to get around

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

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

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

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

Language and currency

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cost of 2 weeks in Greece vacation

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

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

Travel arrangement tips

Map of top sites and activities in greece.

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

2 WEEKS IN GREECE ITINERARY

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

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

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

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

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

Athens for 3 days

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

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

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

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

Mykonos or Crete for 3 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

Paros for 3 days

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

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

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

Santorini in 3 days

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

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

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

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

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

Milos for 2 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Athens for 6 days

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

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

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

Crete/Knossos for 3 days

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

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

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

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

Meteora for 2 days

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

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

Corfu for 3 days

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

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

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

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

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

Itinerary #3: Away from Tourists (Northern Greece)

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

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

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

Kavala for 3 days

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

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

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

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

Thessaloniki for 3 days

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

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

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

Vergina for 3 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Athens for 4 days

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

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

Mykonos for 3 days

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

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

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

Crete for 3 days

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

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

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

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

Naxos or Santorini for 4 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHAT TO DO AND SEE IN GREECE (per city)

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

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

Thessaloniki

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

LOCAL GREEK DISHES AND DRINKS TO TRY

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

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

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN GREECE (per city)

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

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

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN GREECE

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

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

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

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

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If you’re planning a trip to Greece in 2024, visit these 10 top destinations

Mar 4, 2024 • 6 min read

From iconic islands to major cities to the lesser-known, wild region of Epiros, our list of essential Greek destinations has a bit of everything © Georgios Tsichlis / Shutterstock

As its mythical Sirens were reputed to do, Greece has long lured travelers to its scintillating shores.

Across an expansive island archipelago, traditional whitewashed villages, azure seas and waterfront tavernas enchant visitors. Greece’s mountainous mainland, rich in UNESCO World Heritage–listed ancient sites, treasure-filled museums and spirited cities, is no less fascinating. As you contemplate your dream Greece itinerary, consider these 10 favorite places to add to it.

Wherever you walk in Greece’s storied capital, the ancients have walked before – whether you see the evidence or not. From the Acropolis  (whose jewel in the crown is the fifth-century BCE Parthenon ) to the underground metro (where some stations feature archaic finds), Athens  is teeming with historical sites , monuments and museums. A combo card affords entry to the Acropolis and six more sites; the Acropolis Museum is also a must-see.

Easy to tackle on foot, Athens is also one of Europe’s liveliest metropolises – and strolls through neighborhoods like old-town Plaka , flea market–famous Monastiraki and hip Pangrati are highlights. By night, catch a live band in gritty Gazi , catch a movie at an outdoor cinema in Thission or go bar-hopping off the main commercial street Ermou.

Local tip: Book tickets online for a reinvented Greek tragedy or dance troupe performance at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus amphitheater as part of the  Epidaurus Festival , which takes place each summer.

A collection of over 70 beaches, sea caves hidden beneath limestone cliffs and technicolor traditional boat houses are just some of the reasons why mineral-rich Milos has won the hearts of many travelers. Evidence of its volcanic origins can be seen in the almost lunar landscape of Sarakiniko , where the more daring dive into a jade-colored Aegean. Arrive early at Gerondas beach to nab the generous shade of caves and enjoy floating silently in still waters.

Planning tip: Save a couple of days to spend on Kimolos, a small island northeast of Milos reachable by ferry. One of its most impressive beaches is Prassa, where coarse, blindingly white sand shows off shallow, aquamarine waters to full effect.

Rhodes has long been the Dodecanese ’s biggest draw thanks to its atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage–listed medieval old town . Transformed in the Middle Ages by the Knights of the Order of St John into a formidable fortified city, it fell to the Ottomans, who erected mosques, baths and houses, many of which have been restored. Youngsters might envision armored men on horseback thundering down the cobblestoned Street of the Knights .

Make sure you visit the Palace of the Grand Master , which features stunning Roman and Early Christian floor mosaics, and the Church of Our Lady of the Castle.

Planning tip: Book a state-licensed tour guide to show you around the old town for a full picture of its long and fascinating history.

4. Santorini

Whether you’re coupled up or not, it’s hard not to fall for Santorini ’s charms. Whitewashed and pastel-hued, cube-shaped homes cling to steep cliffsides above a cobalt Aegean and the island’s famed caldera, formed by volcanic eruptions over millennia.

Weave your way through the narrow alleyways of the postcard-perfect village of Oia amid blue-domed churches. Bathe in thermal springs warmed by an active volcano, splay out on black-sand beaches and don’t miss the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri , which features an advanced drainage system.

Planning tip: Book a private tour of Santorini ’s smaller wine estates, whose new generation of vintners is breathing new life into traditional wines like mezzo and Nychteri.

In Greece’s west lies Epiros , a remote region of soaring mountain peaks, fast-flowing rivers and hidden rock canyons. Hike to the alpine heights of Mt Tymfi’s Dragon Lake, which freezes over in winter, or traverse the thick forests, inclines and descents of spectacular Vikos Gorge . Whitewater rafting thrills and spills await in the Voidomatis or Arachthos rivers, while canyoning enthusiasts can choose from routes of varying difficulty.

6. Kythnos and Serifos

If peaceful sandy shores, unassuming waterfront tavernas and sleepy villages are more your style, the low-key West Cyclades isles of Kythnos and Serifos are worth a stop. Kythnos has deep, sheltered bays and tamarisk-dotted silver-sand beaches, among them Lefkes and Naousa.

Wallet-friendly tavernas line the laid-back fishing settlements of Loutro and Meriha, while wind-whipped Serifos , a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , features sweeping sandy beaches, sheltered bays, ghostly mining relics and a jewel-like hilltop capital whose neoclassical town hall stands sentinel over the buzzy main square.

7. Thessaloniki

At the crossroads of East and West, where the Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have held sway over the centuries, Thessaloniki tempts serious foodies. Bougatsa , a phyllo pastry pie usually filled with semolina custard, spinach or mince meat, makes for a hearty breakfast. Pick up olives and spices at the olfactory-awakening open-air markets and Pontic cheeses from indoor food hub Modiano , which dates back to 1922. In the former oil merchant district of Ladadika, mezedopolia serve dishes revealing strong Anatolian and Middle Eastern influences, customarily with the fiery clear spirit tsipouro .

Planning tip: Thessaloniki is also renowned for its fish and seafood, served with fervor and pride whether it’s a backstreet taverna or an upscale restaurant. Bookings are recommended for the latter.

Tranquil, turquoise seas, fir-studded hillsides and a regal capital make Corfu one of the most beautiful parts of the country to go sailing. The Ionian isle is the ideal starting point for novices who can take a sailing course and gain certification.

Afterward, join a flotilla for a leisurely cruise around Corfu, dropping anchor at Kalami Bay (of The Durrells fame) and lush Paleokastritsa. In Corfu Town , admire Venetian fortresses, the French-designed Liston Arcade and The Palace of St Michael and St George , built during the island’s British administration.

Planning tip: Few venture to Erikousa island, northwest of Corfu, which is blessed with pristine beaches and shallow cerulean seas.

Greece’s largest island, Crete  abounds in historical sites, well-preserved monuments and modern museums. A wander through the Minoan-era palaces of Knossos , Malia , Phaestos and Kato Zakros  won’t disappoint any fan of classical culture.

Stroll along the Venetian Harbour in Hania , lined with Ottoman monuments such as the Kioutsouk Hasan Mosque . Trek up to Byzantine and Venetian fortresses such as the Fortezza in Rethymno and Kastelli in Hania. In the east, the 16th-century Venetian fortress on Spinalonga islet reveals a harrowing, more recent past as a leper colony.

Among noteworthy museums are the Heraklion Archaeological Museum , Chania’s Maritime Museum of Crete , and the Museum of Ancient Eleutherna in Rethymno.

10. Mykonos

In the 1960s and 70s, Mykonos hosted roving hippies, celebrities and moneyed jet-setters who flirted and danced till the sun came up. While new five-star hotels and swanky brand-name restaurants may have altered the landscape and driven up prices, the fabled Cycladic isle still reigns supreme when it comes to summer nightlife in the Mediterranean.

Revelers can choose from the thumping bars lining Little Venice in Hora , as well as beach bars, cabaret restaurants and iconic clubs like seaside Cavo Paradiso , where illustrious music DJs fire up the crowd.

Planning tip: August is Mykonos’ busiest month. It’s also when you can witness the hottest DJs and surprise appearances by music artists, including prominent hip-hop names.

This article was first published July 2021 and updated March 2024

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Your Trip to the Greece: The Complete Guide

Your Trip to Greece: The Complete Guide

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

Planning Your Trip

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

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

Currency: Euro (€)  .

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

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

Things to Do

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

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

What to Eat and Drink

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay

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

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

Getting There

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

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

Culture and Customs

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

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

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

Money-Saving Tips

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

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "General Info."

Greek National Tourism Organisation . "Geography."

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• A Two Week Travel Itinerary...

A Two-Week Travel Itinerary to Greece

Do you have two weeks of vacation but don’t know where to go or what to do? Don’t worry, we got you. Here is a travel itinerary for Greece. This road trip will take you across the mainland and off to the islands, allowing you to get a glimpse of the fascinating culture and heritage of the Mediterranean nation.

Day 1: arrive in athens, stay for 4 nights.

Welcome to Athens! After a metro or bus ride from the Athens Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport to wherever you are staying , drop your bags, refresh yourself and head out to explore the city.

The Greek capital has plenty of things to offer, from historic landmarks (such as the Acropolis and Parthenon) to museums ; cool districts and neighborhoods to a wide collection of restaurants and cafés.

Day 3: Day trip to Spetses

Located in the Saronic Gulf, Spetses , the island of spices, is only a two-hour ferry ride from Piraeus , the main port in Athens located at the end of the green metro line (Line 1). Booking tickets from abroad is often difficult, so you will have to go to a travel shop (or ask the concierge at your hotel) ahead of time to get yours.

The island has an authentic charm and a relaxed atmosphere, with a little town and many isolated beaches. A favorite for wealthy Athenians with summer houses on the island, Spetses is green and blessed with natural beauty. Visit the Bouboulinas Mansion for a quick lesson on a local heroine before exploring the small island. The historic village of Kastelli is located on a hill, and has panoramic views of the island and the blue sea. The many secluded beaches and coves are ideal for a quick dip before heading back to Athens.

Pro tip: When you step off the ferry after your return trip, dine in Piraeus. Our favorite pick is Pirée, a stunning café/restaurant/bar and art gallery all in one, near the port.

Day 4: Day trip to Delphi

Visit the ancient sanctuary of Delphi, a stunning archaeological site near the modern town of Delphi, at the foot of Mount Parnassus. Save some euros and take a Ktel bus , which takes you to the UNESCO-listed site in three hours . The archaeological site, where people from across ancient Greece came to hear the oracle of Apollo, includes a few must-see sights such as the oracle of Delphi, the Temple of Apollo, and the sanctuary of Athena and the tholos.

Pro tip: This is your last night in Athens. Rent a car right when you come back so you are ready to head out the next day. The cars usually come equiped with GPS and road maps so you don’t get lost.

Day 5: Ancient Corinth – Epidavros – Nafplio

Spend the night in nafplio.

Start your exploration of Greece with a few days in Peloponnese. Take advantage of the proximity of Corinth to the Greek capital and explore the ancient city as well as Acrocorinth, the ancient city dominating the valley, before continuing to the theatre of Epidaurus, one of the best examples of an ancient theatre. At the end of the 19th century, the theatre underwent intense renovation and today hosts the annual Athens-Epidaurus festival .

The last leg of this trip takes you to Nafplio, a lovely town in Argolida, which used to be the capital of Greece.

Pro tip: Stay at 3sixty boutique hotel in Nafplio, a stunning hotel housed in a beautiful neoclassical mansion.

Day 6: Nafplio – Kardamyli

Enjoy the morning in Nafplio before heading out to Kardamyli , a picture-perfect town in Mani, Messinia. There, find a hotel then head to Old Kardamyli, where you can admire the traditional Mani tower houses, as well as the view over the gulf. Drive to nearby Stoupa beach for an afternoon dip.

Day 7: Kardamily – Ancient Olympia – Patras

Spend the night in patras.

After saying goodbye to Kardamyli, drive for about two hours to the site of Ancient Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games. Here you can visit the gymnasium, stadium, temples of Hera and Zeus and the Philippeion, a building dedicated to king of Macedon Philip II, who was an Olympic champion in chariot racing. Make sure to drop by the museum next door to admire some of the artefacts found on site.

End your day with a quick drive to Patras , an important port city connecting Greece to Italy. For nightlife, Radinou Street is a must, although entertainment can also be found at Agiou Nikolaou Street.

Day 8: Patras – Ioannina

The distance covered today allows you to depart from Patras in the afternoon, so take the opportunity to get acquainted with Patras, a lively port city that’s home to a major university. At first glance, the city may not inspire you much, but for the discerning traveler it has a few gems, including the church of Agios Andreas, the castle and a plethora of small cafés filled by students and seniors.

After lunch, leave Peloponnese behind and continue your exploration of Greece by crossing the Rio/Antirio Bridge, making your way to Epirus’ capital, Ioannina, a two-hour drive away. Ioannina is another under-the-radar destination. There’s a beautiful old town, a lake with an islet, a medieval castle and museums, and a plethora of bars and restaurants to quench your thirst and satisfy your tastebuds.

Day 9: Ioannina – Metsovo – Kalampaka

Spend two nights in kalambaka.

Start the day with a walk around the lake after a good breakfast. Then, set off to Metsovo , a charming mountainous village known for its delicious smoked cheese, metsovone. Metsovo, with its traditional architecture and charming and serene aura, is an ideal spot to spend the day and enjoy some fresh air.

Head on to Kalampaka , the village at the foot of Meteora, where you will spend the night. Admire the boulders from the bottom and get ready to have your mind blown the next day.

Day 10: Meteora

Meteora, with its collection of monasteries perched atop huge limestone boulders, is one of Greece’s most surreal destinations. Take in the beauty of the region by exploring the six still-operational monasteries. You will surely enjoy the view from the top of the boulders and the serenity of the century-old monasteries.

Pro tip: Don’t just visit one or two monasteries and head back to your room. Visitmeteora.travel features a few excellent activities and excursions in the region. You can also go hiking, rafting, rock-climbing and even mushroom picking.

Day 11: Meteora – Mount Olympus (Litochoro)

Spend the night in litochoro.

You cannot possibly visit central Greece without dropping by the sacred mountain of Olympus, the home of the gods. This majestic mountain is the highest point in the country and will definitely keep you in awe. Stay at Litochoro and take the time to relax after the two-hour drive.

Day 12: Mount Olympus – Volos

We don’t expect you to climb all the way to the summit of Mount Olympus, but there are plenty of trails across the mountain that will allow you to admire the beauty of this region without too much effort. Take a picnic so you can take the time to enjoy the views before heading straight to Volos , the gateway to the Sporades.

Pro tip: Volos is known for its love of tsipouro , so make sure to have a try with dinner. Our recommendation? Tsipouradiko Dionisis , on the waterfront.

Day 13: Volos – Skiathos

Time to visit the last island of your trip, the beautiful and relaxed Skiathos, one of the three islands of the Sporades. Take a morning ferry (get the tickets the night before, if you can, at Volos port) and get ready to explore this low-key island of stunning beaches, verdant forests and turquoise waters. Skiathos town includes the Bourtzi, a medieval castle, as well as a modern harbor lined with restaurants and cafés.

Day 14: Skiathos – Athens (via Agios Konstantinos)

It is now time to return to the mainland. After the three-hour ferry ride to Agios Konstantinos , it takes 90 minutes to reach Athens.

Day 15: Athens

This is your rest day before leaving Athens. Take some time to sleep in or walk around Plaka and Thissio, or go souvenir shopping.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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The Ultimate 2-Week Greece Road Trip Itinerary

Experience Greece in all its glory by driving around the country in 2 weeks with this road trip itinerary. 7 stops, endless fun.

While many people think of Greece as the ultimate island destination, with Mykonos and Santorini headlining honeymoon itineraries , it’s also a fantastic road trip destination. The mainland of Greece, from Athens to Thessaloniki via Meteora, Delphi, or the Peloponnese, offers up an amazing array of unique stops.

Below is the ultimate 2-week Greece road trip itinerary, beginning with the mainland and ending on the islands. Begin your ultimate Greece road trip in Thessaloniki. You can fly into here from most cities across Europe or connect in Athens. 

1. Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, in the north, is Greece’s second-largest city and the capital of the Greek region of Macedonia. It was founded as a Roman city in the 1st century BCE by Cassander of Macedon. Under the Byzantines, the city flourished and was the second largest and wealthiest city in the empire.

Today, Thessaloniki is considered Greece’s cultural capital, with yearly art and film festivals. It also features numerous Roman and Byzantine ruins, plenty of street art, and has been named as one of the best mid-size European cities.

What to see and do in Thessaloniki

• Ano Poli: Ano Poli, or upper town, is part of the original city layout. In 1917, a large fire destroyed much of Thessaloniki, and the city was rebuilt according to a Byzantine city plan. Ano Poli was not destroyed, however, and remains the most traditional Greek and Ottoman part of the city. 
• Paleochristian and Byzantine monuments: Thessaloniki has many paleochristian and Byzantine monuments, because of its importance as a Byzantine administrative center. The most well known is Hagios Demitrios, or the Church of Saint Demetrius, which was damaged by the fire in 1917 and later by World War II bombing. Hagios Demetrios is the largest basilica in Greece and has since been rebuilt.
• Street Art: Thessaloniki is a vibrant second city and is popular with street artists and street photographers. In 2017, it hosted its first street art festival, drawing many artists and musicians; since then the city has been considered the cultural capital of Greece and is one of Europe’s best mid-sized cities.

Insider’s tip: To make the most of this road trip itinerary, rent your car after exploring the city and before moving on to the next destination on this itinerary.

2. Halkidiki

From Thessaloniki, drive around Halkidiki, which comprises three peninsulas on the northeastern coast. It is the birthplace of Aristotle. 

The three peninsulas of Halkidiki are known as Kassandra, Sithonia, and Agion Oros : 

• Kassandra is the furthest south peninsula, closest to Thessaloniki, where you will find the largest towns and most developed infrastructure. 
• Sithonia is less developed and perfect for outdoor lovers. 
• And Agion Oros , the northernmost peninsula, is home to Mount Athos, a monastic state which only men are allowed to enter.

Halkidiki is also known for its beaches, thermal spas, mountain villages, and the monastery of Mount Athos.

Top 3 things to do in Halkidiki

• Halkidiki Beaches: You must visit the beaches of Halkidiki!  Some are made up of rocky coves, while others are much more developed and have shops or bars along the beach. Some of the most popular beaches include Kavourotripes, Alykes on Ammouliani Island, Karydi in Vourvourou, and Possidi.
• Mount Athos: While you can’t visit Mount Athos by land unless you are an Orthodox Christian male with a special permit, anyone can see the monastery from the sea. Boat cruises depart daily from Ouranoupoli or Ormos Panagias and half-day tours take 3-4 hours. 
• Visit the Thermal Spa: Halkidiki is known for its healing waters, in particular, the spa at Agia Paraskevi, on a cliff overlooking the sea. It has been said that this thermal spa can heal arthritis, skin inflammations, and other chronic disorders. They also offer hammams, hydromassage treatments, saunas, and swimming pools.

From Halkidiki, drive south to Meteora. Meteora is located in the Plains of Thessaly and is home to six Eastern Orthodox monasteries, all built on top of natural sandstone pillars. 

The earliest monasteries were built around the 14th century, though there is evidence for human settlement as far back as 50,000 years ago and evidence of monks living there from the 9th century. The original access to the 24 monasteries was only by ropes or ladders that could be removed, for security.

Today, it is easier to visit the monasteries , as there are now staircases built into the rock. There are only 6 monasteries remaining.

What you cannot miss in Meteora

• Monastery of the Holy Trinity : Built in 1475, this is one of the six remaining monasteries. It is inhabited by just four monks and is located atop the cliffs. 
• Old Hermitages : Many monasteries were destroyed by the Ottomans or fell into ruin. However, what many people don’t know is that prior to the monasteries there were small hermitages that housed the early monks. Some of the more well known include the Doupiani and Badovas hermitages. You can visit these with a tour guide.
• The Pindos Mountains : Explore the Pindos Mountain range, home to not just the monasteries but also small villages and flowing streams. 

After leaving Meteora, drive to Delphi, home to the ancient Oracle and today an incredibly impressive set of ruins. Once considered the center of the world, and marked with a stone called the omphalos (navel), Delphi is notable for its importance to Ancient Greek city-states and there are many monuments built by the various governments. For this reason, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

What is Delphi famous for

• Temple of Apollo : The Temple dedicated to Apollo at Delphi was located at the heart of the sanctuary. The ruins we can see today are actually the ruins of the third temple built in the 4th century BCE. This temple was damaged by the Romans and later destroyed by Christian zealots in an effort to stamp out paganism.
• Treasury of Athens : The Treasury of Athens was built at Delphi to commemorate their win at the Battle of Marathon in 490 BCE. It is located directly below the Temple of Apollo on the Sacred Way, meaning that all who went to the temple passed it. Its location signified the importance of the city-state of Athens. A treasury would have held votives and offerings from the city-state to the god, and there were other treasuries at Delphi and other sites around Greece.
• Archaeological Museum of Delphi : The Archaeological Museum of Delphi is one of the most visited museums in Greece. It is located outside the sanctuary. Some of the most important artifacts in the museum include the frieze of the Siphnian Treasury, the Charioteer of Delphi, and the Metopes of the Treasury of the Athenians.

Delphi is only a few hours north of Athens, which is your next stop. The capital of Greece is one of the greatest capital cities in history. Early settlement dates back to 1400 BCE, while evidence of humans dates back to between the 11th and 7th century BCE. 

Today it is a sprawling city that blends the ancient and modern and is a must-see on your ultimate Greece road trip. 

Insider’s tip: Return your rental car here before exploring, you can explore the city using its public transport network and on foot.

Athens highlights

• Acropolis and Acropolis Museum : the Athens Acropolis is one of the most prominent symbols of Antiquity. It sits on a rocky outcrop above the city and is home to a number of building ruins. The most important structure atop the Acropolis is the Parthenon, but there are nearly 20 other buildings. The entrance to the Acropolis is through the Propylaea, a monumental gateway that marks the end of the Sacred Way. Other buildings or structures here include the Theatre of Dionysus, the Erectheum, and the Temple of Athena Nike.
• Ancient Agora : the Ancient Agora is the best-known example of a classical agora. It is located northwest of the Acropolis. If the Acropolis was the spiritual heart of the city, the agora was considered the commercial heart of the city. It was here that the merchants met, some people lived, and where assemblies would have taken place.
• Temple of Zeus : The Temple of Zeus is a temple in the center of modern Athens. It was begun in the 6th century BCE but was not completed until the 2nd century AD. The temple almost immediately fell into disuse but while it was active it was the largest temple in the Roman Empire. Today just 16 columns remain yet it is one of the most important ruins in the city.
• Explore Plaka : walking through Plaka is surely an experience you can’t miss. This is the oldest neighborhood in Athens. The streets are narrow and the labyrinth is home to tourist shops, cafes, tavernas, galleries, and more.
• Benaki Museum : The Benaki Museum, located within a historic mansion in Athens, houses Greek works of art from prehistoric to modern time. While its focus spans Greek culture over its history, the Benaki also has an extensive Asian art collection and houses a restoration and conservation workshop.

6. Mykonos island

From Piraeus, the port of Athens, take a ferry to Mykonos. This takes around 2-5 hours depending on the ferry but can take up to 24 hours if you take a slow boat.

Mykonos is quite possibly the most famous of the Aegean islands and a paradise for everyone from celebrities to backpackers. Hora is a vibrant town where you can spend both time and money in the many designer boutiques or hip restaurants.

The island of Mykonos is well known for its sunsets and parties, but it has a quieter side too . You can rent a car or scooter to get around Mykonos, and this can be done on arrival. 

Best things to do in Mykonos

• Alefkantra aka Little Venice : this 18th-century district in Hora transports you back to Italy, with its Italianate mansions and delightful balconies overlooking the sea. Mykonos’ famous windmills are just above you. Alefkantra is where the sea captains of the 18th and 19th centuries lived and the neighborhood remains a charming, quiet, residential area.
• Ano Mera : Mykonos’ second city is located in the center of the island and is much quieter than its sister Hora. Go for the beautiful 16th century Panayia Tourliani monastery, known for its wood-carved iconostasis.
• Ftelia : history buffs must visit this Neolithic settlement just north of Ano Mera. It also has a 14th century BCE Mycenaean tomb.
• Beaches of Mykonos : Mykonos has many wonderful beaches. If you have a car or scooter you can explore at your leisure. Some of the beaches are organized with umbrellas, chairs, etc while others are unorganized and you should take what you need with you.

Editor’s tip: Once you are done with the Aegean sea, why not keep exploring the Mediterranean with an Adriatic sailing adventure ? There are over a thousand Croatian islands  waiting for you!

7. Santorini

Take the ferry to Santorini, one of Greece’s most well-known and popular islands. This will take around two hours. The glimmering whitewashed buildings of Fira (Thera), Oia, and Imerovigli look out over the sea and provide incredible – and very romantic – sunset views. 

Spend a few days here to explore the island’s east coast, visit the many wineries, and enjoy the rich history and landscape. To get around the island, rent a car in Fira.

Before heading back, if you have extra time, consider taking an Ios day trip – easily accessible by ferry from Santorini year-round-  to explore its scenic beauty

What to do and where to go in Santorini

• Hike the trail between Fira and Oia : The hiking trail between Fira and Oia is a popular one, especially around sunset (end in Oia for the best views) but it also helps you work off all that great Greek food – one of the best cuisines in the world – and wine! The trail winds along the caldera rim and has epic views of the sea.
• Take a volcano cruise : Santorini is known for its volcanic activity – after all, the eruption of Thera is the eruption that ended the Minoan civilization on Crete. The best way to experience the volcanic activity in Santorini is to take a cruise out to the smaller volcanoes in the caldera for a hike up the volcano and a swim in the hot springs.
• Visit Akrotiri : Akrotiri is a Bronze Age Minoan settlement, with evidence of habitation into the 5th millennium BCE. It was destroyed in the 16th century BCE eruption that wiped out the Minoans. Akrotiri was first excavated in 1867 although modern excavations in the late 1960s revealed the extent of the site. Akrotiri is considered the source of the Atlantis myth.

Greece is a great road trip destination, even on the islands. 

• If you can include the amazing mainland sites like Delphi, Meteora, and Athens, you really get a great sense of the history and culture of Greece. 
• The islands add yet another dimension – they have extensive history and influences but also showcase the beautiful modern way of life. 

Using this ultimate Greek road trip itinerary, you will experience the best of both worlds. Enjoy!

Chrysoula is a travel blogger born and raised in Athens with a professional background in Tourism and Marketing. Through the pages of Athens and Beyond , she wants to help visitors make the most of their trip to Athens and show them how to navigate the city like an insider.

My Independent Greece Itinerary for a 2-Week Trip

I’m sharing the exact Greece itinerary I followed, with honest reviews about each place. You’ll be ready to plan your journey with no expensive agencies or tours and enjoy a well-rounded Mediterranean experience.

Personally, I love Greece . It’s not only the idyllic beaches and the warm weather, but also the culture, the food, the history and the friendly Greeks. It’s the whole package.

Greece has a lot of hype as a travel destination, but I can assure you most of it it’s true!

This Greece travel itinerary I’m about to share is based on the indie route I made on my first trip to the country. Some of the places were a surprise, others lived to its hype and one big disappointment. Honest policy here.

I hope this can inspire you for your own trip and perhaps even save you days of planning. Yassou Greece! 🇬🇷

Greece Itinerary: Overview

First things first. 2 weeks is not by any means enough time to explore Greece to the fullest.

Possibilities are endless. The country is well spread out and with – literally – thousands of dreamy islands to choose from, FOMO can easily settle in. So the first thing to acknowledge is within 14 days you’re not going to see everything.

The best to do is to pick a varied selection of places that give you a good grasp of the country. Here’s how my travel itinerary for Greece in 2 weeks looked like:

• Athens : 3 days
• Pelopponese : 2/3 days
• Santorini : 2/3 days
• Koufonisia : 3 days
• Mykonos : 2 days

Why this itinerary?

Planning an itinerary to a new country is always highly subjective and dependent on what you want to do. To make this one I considered my main purpose: to try to find a balanced route that allowed me to know Greece from different angles and perspectives.

A key takeaway here is that it’s NOT all about Greek islands. Yes they’re gorgeous but there’s more to Greece than Santorini and Mykonos . That’s a cliché and I wanted to expand my experience.

So the main benefit of this itinerary is that you’ll get to know different sides of Greece :

• The historical heritage on a major European capital, Athens
• The more local experience where Greek flee to on holidays, the Pelopponese peninsula
• An off the beaten track island to have some well-deserved chill-out time, Koufonisia
• The hyped islands of Santorini and Mykonos who are on everyone’s bucket list

With no further ado, let’s get into the details!

Greece Itinerary: Athens (Αθήνα)

Most international flights land in the capital Athens and this usually is the first stop of travelers arriving to Greece .

Many say Athens is the ugliest side of Greece . With so many dream places to go in the country, I understand where they coming from, it is one of those love-hate travel destinations. Yes, it can be gritty and many streets are filled with decadent buildings as the most prominent feature of a country in crisis.

On the other hand, it can also enlighten you. Beautiful heritage vibes at every corner, local tavernas , charming cafés and artsy shops convey the soul of one of the world’s oldest cities (about 3400 years old!).

Love it or hate it, it’s a one-of-kind place in Greece – and in the entire world, for that matter – and the birthplace of an entire civilization. I personally feel it deserves a visit: we’re talking about a place that can take you back to Ancient Greece here!

What to do in Athens 📸

It’s impossible to think of Athens without thinking of the iconic Parthénon . This famous ancient temple is part of the Acropolis , a huge historical hilltop citadel with several ruins to explore. You can easily spend a whole afternoon here.

• Panathenaic Stadium

This place was one of my favorites. It was the site of the first ever Olympic Games of the modern era, in 1896. Not only the all-marble stadium itself is an architecture delight, there is also an interesting underground Olympic Museum with all the original (!) torches are displayed.

• Acropolis Museum

I’m not a fan of museums, but this one is quite cool. Apart from invaluable pieces of art, it gives great insights on the Greek Empire and the city of Athens along the centuries.

The closest you’ll get to a Greek island vibe in the capital. This is an entirely different Athens : narrow cobblestone streets showcasing huge trees in full bloom, tiny shops selling all kinds of local art and hip cafés with outdoor seating. It’s picturesque and charming.

• Lycabettus Hill

Where to stay in Athens 🏨

The best areas to stay in Athens are Plaka , Syntagma and Monastiraki , the heart of the city center. They’re also the most touristy.

I actually stayed in Akadimia area which is more residential and local, but perfectly fine and within walking distance to the center. If I had to choose again though, I’d go for the beautiful neighborhood of Plaka .

Here’s a suggestion for a great place to stay there.

Find other Superb places to stay in Plaka, Athens .

Athens Overview 👀

• 📍 How to get to Athens city center: Metro Line 3 will take you to the center – Syntagma and Monastiraki squares included – in about 40 minutes (10 EUR). There’s also the option of bus: lines X93 will take you to Kifissos KTEL Bus Terminal and X95 to Syntagma Square . Finally the Proastiakos train connects Athens Airport with the Central Station (also known as Stathmos Larisis). Taxi is much more expensive (40EUR+).
• 🕑 How long to stay: I suggest staying at least 2 full days in the city. It’s not huge, but the heat can slow you down more than you think.
• 🔀 How to get around: no need for a car. Metro is convenient and fast and there are buses going pretty much anywhere. Uber is available and is great for some more remote places, like the Lycabettus Hill .
• 🍴 Best place to eat: Might be touristy, but having dinner with the Acropolis as a backdrop in Veranda was memorable. Hi-Fai Grill House was also great value for a quick dinner.
• 💬 Words that define Athens: history, ancient, empire, urban, Parthenon, ruins

Greece Itinerary: Pelopponese (Πελοπόννησος)

Don’t frown at me just yet. I’m aware this is not a typical choice for anyone coming to Greece for the first time. But Kalamata and the whole Pelopponese peninsula can bring a pinch of Greek authenticity to your trip.

With the islands becoming overpopulated and more expensive each year, many Greeks choose Pelopponese to enjoy their time off. I feel it’s a perfect place for an affordable low-key holiday, specially for family or couple getaways.

There are museums and cultural things to do here, but quite honestly you should come here with an unwinding mindset. You can easily spend 2/3 days basing yourself the Kalamata area just relaxing, but if you have a car, make sure you explore the rest of the Pelopponese peninsula.

Places to go in the Pelopponese

• Beaches This whole area is fertile in gorgeous coves and bays perfect for a sense of getaway. Stay in Avia instead of city center Kalamata for extra tranquility. Most of beaches here are pebbled, but the perfect sandy semi-circle of Voidokilia beach is a fine example of a underrated paradise. In all of them the sea is incredibly clear!
• Polylimnio Waterfalls (πολυλίμνιο) A short drive from Kalamata, this set of vivid green lakes and waterfalls is a journey to a lush Greece hard to find elsewhere.
• Nafplio (Ναύπλιο) If you have a car, this is a great stopover in the middle of the journey from/to Athens. According to mythology, the town was founded by Nafplios , the son of god Poseidon. Don’t miss the spectacular Palamidi citadel.

Where to stay in Pelopponese

I stayed in Avia area, very close to the city of Kalamata . The vibe here is beautifully chilled. Pebbled beaches with crystal clear water arise from dense pine forests while unpretentious bars and restaurants populate the seaside promenades. Great place to relax but also to base yourself and explore the area.

Pelopponese Overview

• 📍 How to get to Kalamata: From Athens you can get to Kalamata by a 3-hour ride on an intercity KTEL bus. There are express and normal buses departing every hour from the KTEL Bus Station Kifissou terminal in Athens .
• 🕑 How long to stay: This is a place to relax so you can take as much time as you need. I’d say 2 full days, at the very least.
• 🔀 How to get around: public transportation is limited. A car would be great to avoid dependency on taxis.
• 🍴 Best place to eat: all the restaurants by the beach near Avia were good value. I had great meals by the sea in Akrogalia and Hobo Beach Bar .
• 💬 Words that define Pelopponese: relax, authenticity, Mediterranean, olives, local

Greece Itinerary: Santorini (Σαντορίνη)

Santorini is essentially a giant collapsed crater that resulted of a massive eruption in the 16th century. With winery tours, stunning villages perched on high cliffs and blue domes of churches contrasting the white Cycladic houses, this place is likely to be the first image that comes to your mind when thinking of Greece .

And oh boy, you’ll feel you’ve uplifted yourself and entered a whole different world where posh , fancy and finesse are the norm. Highest concentration of infinity pools I’ve seen ever!

And of course the sunset. When the sun sets in the Mediterranean, the fire-red glow reflects on the huge cliffs and snow-white buildings, creating a truly fantastic scenery.

Important: whatever you do, do NOT ride the donkeys in Fira . These donkeys carry tourists – normally arriving on a cruise – up and down a massive cliff all day long. Under hot blazing sun. With no water around. Is it really worth a stupid selfie?

What to do in Santorini 📸

• Oia The most beautiful and picturesque village in Santorini and I’d dare to say; the most famous sunset worldwide. While it wasn’t the most colorful sunset I’ve seen, I admit the light reflecting in this cliffside town and gorgeous sea view created an ambiance hard to beat. In the end everyone clapped, cheering to another day passed 👏.
• Do the Fira-Oia hike The favorite thing I did was in Santorini was to walk all the way from Fira to Oia , on the northern tip of the island. It’s a 10km walk along huge volcanic cliffs, through the villages of Fira , Firostefani , Imerovigli , and Oia . In some points it’s almost a lunar landscape with truly spetacular views over the Mediterranean caldera 😍
• Nea Kameni The volcanic hot springs on this small inhabitated island in the heart of the caldera attracts hundreds of travelers on tour boats every day. The yellow sulphur-enriched waters are therapeutic.
• Beaches There are better beaches in Greece than in Santorini. If you’re keen on having some beach time here as well, the dark-sand Kamari and Perissa are great swimming spots. Red Beach , whose name comes from the unusual color of the surrounding cliffs, can also be worth to go for the novelty factor.

Where to watch the sunset in Santorini 🌇

• Oia. The most obvious choice. The sun sets directly on the sea. The best spot to watch the sunset is the Kastro Walls (NOT the overpriced restaurant with the same name!). Go there very early, at least 1 hour ahead sunset time. Oia is crazy packed with people and the best spots are gone fast.
• Fira. The main town Fira has also great sunset opportunities. The sun doesn’t set on the sea, but over the small islands in the middle of Santorini crater instead. Find a good spot on the highest parts of town or grab a drink at one of the bars.
• Imerovigli. Some say the most posh village of the island has better sunset views than Oia! With less crowds and a privileged view over both Oia and Caldera, it definitely has potential to be more romantic and special.

Where to stay in Santorini 🏨

OK so as you might expect, this is not a dirt cheap place to stay by any means. The majority of accommodation in Santorini are ridiculously gorgeous-looking villas with a pool and memorable sea views. The standard here is very high.

For those in a budget, the main town Fira is your best choice with good accommodation choices at decent prices. This was my case: we stayed in Costa Marina Villas . No pool or breakfast though.

I don’t like to splurge money just because, but Santorini somehow feels the right place to do it. Looking back, I’d probably stretch my budget a bit more and go for a hotel with a memorable view and possibly with a pool in Imerovigli or Fira . I’ve shortlisted exactly these hotels in Santorini for you to get started.

In any case, it’s important to book your hotel early. Specially if you’re coming during summer, the best places to stay sell out too quickly!

Santorini Overview 👀

• 📍 How to get to Fira city center: regardless if you come from airport or plane, you can hop on a taxi to Fira or take the cheaper option: the bus. There is also a good network of buses connecting these to the main villages of the island.
• 🕑 How long to stay: I suggest staying at least 2 full days in Santorini. More if you plan to go to the Caldera or have some beach time.
• 🔀 How to get around: You can walk most of the time or rent a bike or quad-bike starting at 30EUR/day. Don’t forget the buses.
• 🍴 Best place to eat: my favorite place to eat was by far Theonis Kitchen . Family-owned restaurant serving huge portions of delicious Greek food!
• 💬 Words that define Santorini: sunset, volcano, infinity pools, views, wine, hike, nightlife

Greece Itinerary: Koufonisia (Κουφονήσια)

Tucked away between the super hyped Santorini and Mykonos and next to the hip Naxos , Koufonisia is a group of 3 remote islands known for their top-notch beaches. The only inhabited island – Pano Koufonissi – is home to only about 400 people.

Warning: If you’re not a fan of the beach life perhaps this is not the island for you. There’s not much to do here, except for tanning time and beach-hopping. But Koufonisia is REALLY good on the beach department.

I feel this was an interesting intermediate stop to detox from the intense daily life of Mykonos and Santorini . And the best opportunity to truly relax.

You can find all the info about Koufonisia on my dedicated travel guide , but here’s some of the highlights.

Places to go in Koufonisia 📸

• Beaches Definitely the biggest selling point of Koufonisia and the main reason people come here. None of them are big in size – can’t except that from such a tiny island – but most are sandy beaches with shallow crystal clear water. I spent more time in Pori and Fanos .
• Chora Koufonisia’s Chora (or town) is a fishing village and the main port of the island. It boasts the incredibly simple and beautiful Cycladic architecture on its narrow maze of streets. It’s super charming and there are hardly any souvenir shops or international food/clothing businesses here. Just authentic Greek life as it has been since decades ago.

Where to stay in Koufonisia 🏨

Accommodation options are scarce in Koufonisia . For one, this means you should expect overpriced rooms for the quality they offer. Basic demand-offer law, especially true during summer.

Secondly, if you’re coming during summer – late June to late August – is very important you book as much as in advance as possible. The possibility all hotels get sold out is real.

There are about 20 different options for accommodation in Koufonisia with free WiFi and 8+ rating on Booking . Out of these, only 2 of them are outside Chora (main town).

Without any 4 or 5-star accommodation in Koufonisia , I can highly recommend the place I stayed (below).

Myrto Hotel   In the heart of Chora and super close to the port, this family-owned hotel boasts spacious rooms and patios with great views. Good breakfast. The staff is friendly and informative, they even got an app for your phone! Book now >>

Koufonisia Overview 👀

• 📍 How to get to Chora city center: from the port it’s – literally – a 2-min walk.
• 🕑 How long to stay: How long do you want to relax on the beach? Take at least 2/3 full days to get into the rhythm.
• 🔀 How to get around: You can walk to most of the beaches and points of interest. Alternatively, there are bikes available to rent. No buses on the island.
• 🍴 Best place to eat: the best meal I’ve had in the island was in Mixalios Grill House . Specialized in meat dishes, especially lamb and goat (from Keros island), and the cheese specialties from Amargos . Locally grown food and big portions and reasonable prices: the perfect combo.
• 💬 Words that define Koufonisia: beaches, remote, chill, tranquil, sea, sun

Greece Itinerary: Mykonos (Μύκονος)

This trip was my first to Greece and I admit I felt pressured to get to visit Mykonos and see what all the hype was about.

From the moment you put your feet in Mykonos you feel the posh high-end vibe. People dress nicer, hotels and resorts look more fancy and there far more high-end shops and boutiques than anywhere else in the Cyclades . The party atmosphere is hardcore, with some beaches charging exorbitant fees to enter during the day.

Let’s say I stayed for 2 days and it was more than enough. It felt too upscale , overpriced and overcrowded for my taste. Definitely my LEAST favorite place in Greece .

If you ask me, I recommend avoiding it and go somewhere else – especially if you’re traveling on a small budget . But hey, it might be just what you’re looking for to end your trip.

Things to do in Mykonos 📸

• Kato Milli Windmills Windmills were an importance source of income for locals and a symbol of the importance of Mykonos as part of the sea trade-routes of the Mediterranean. Kato Milli windmills are iconic features of the island, from which you can see the whole town (chora) and harbour. Tip: come here to watch the sunset!
• Little Venice Quaint waterfront area with 18th century buildings emerging of the water and with colorful balconies. These were once fishing houses and shipping merchants who had direct access to the sea. This is a iconic inspiration for painters and travelers.
• Chora Mykonos ‘ main town attracts herds of people during the summer months. To the point of being stressful to walk the winding streets, especially Matoyianni Street . My suggestion is to go a bit off the beaten track – there are still a few beautiful local alleys where the beautiful Greek essence shine through.
• Look for the pelican(s)! 🐦 Back in 1958, a local fisherman discovered a wounded pelican and brought it to Mykonos . The bird decided to stay and locals gave him the name of Petros. Today, there are 3 pelicans residing on the island. They can be spotted along the area of the harbour, the windmills and Niko’s Taverna .

Where to stay in Mykonos 🏨

Mykonos is the place with the most expensive accommodation in the whole Greece. Since it was our last place in Greece and the budget options didn’t look great either, we had to raise the budget a bit.

Cape Mykonos   Fabulous views over Mykonos Town and with a great quiet beach very close. Some rooms have a fancy jacuzzi in the balcony. The only inconvenience is that it’s on the top of a VERY steep hill.

Otherwise, given the high prices, explore the latest offers close to Mykonos’ main town :

Mykonos Overview 👀

• 📍 How to get to city center: from the port it’s about 15-min by car. Check if your hotel has transfer included, otherwise take a taxi.
• 🕑 How long to stay: About 1-2 full days if you’re not into the part scene; 2-3 days extra if that’s your case (there’s a lot to do).
• 🔀 How to get around: Although there is a decent bus network, to explore the whole island independently and conveniently, you’ll need a bike. Quad-bikes are particularly popular here.
• 🍴 Best place to eat: to be fair, nothing was memorable, but I didn’t want to stretch my budget. The gyros from Saki’s Grill House were very good value though.
• 💬 Words that define Mykonos: luxury, cruise ships, party, fashion, bars, nightlife

What other places should I visit in Greece? 🇬🇷

Well, consider yourself lucky! You can add in a few more days in each one of the places mentioned before. Or change some of places you don’t fancy. Or simply add more stops to your journey.

There are hundreds of cities, villages and Greek islands to choose from. Here are some of the suggestions that are high on my personal bucket list, awaiting my next visit to Greece .

An entire region of huge sandstone peaks where monks built 24 incredible mountaintop monasteries. A trip to Meteora is an unique combination of nature, history and architecture. Want to go so badly!

Despite the increasing number of tourists each year, the largest island of the Ionian Sea rarely feels crowded. Expect rugged landscapes and beautiful coves with top-notch beaches.

Our ferry stopped here on the way to Koufonisia and it looked so remote and interesting that I felt like disembarking and explore. Picturesque, unspoiled and with lots of hiking opportunities in the mountains.

You can easily spend 2 weeks in Crete alone. After all, it’s the largest island in Greece and one of the biggest in the Mediterranean. Between the rich food, the steep mountain landscapes and remnants of ancient civilizations, the white-sand beaches attract more than 4 million travelers each year.

Home to the famous Navagio/Shipwreck Beach – that has to be one of the most famous travel pictures on Instagram – but also to many other idyllic beaches, sea turtles and lush forests on the mountain-y interior.

Boasting an unusual combination of rich history and white sandy beaches, this island has a lot to keep you busy for a few days.

Best time to visit Greece 🌞

Weather-wise, the best time to visit Greece and take advantage of warm sunny days would be between April and October.

That said, during the peak summer months – mid-June to August – you can expect herds of tourists and inflated prices. There is also the potential case of heat waves with temperatures often rising to 40C.

The best time to visit Greece is during spring (April to June) or in fall (September-October). During these periods, you can expect to bypass extreme weather and crowds and have a more pleasant experience.

What to eat in Greece 🍴

Visiting Greece is a golden opportunity to get introduced to the delicious Greek food. It is quite possibly my favorite in the entire world, together with Vietnamese and Portuguese (obviously).

Here are some of the stuff you have to try in Greece .

• Gyros . Meat roasted on spit and then served either on a plate or inside a pita bread with tomatoes, onions and lettuce. Cheap comfort food, perfect for a quick bite.
• Greek Salad . You probably have tried this elsewhere, but there’s something about trying in Greece, with locally grown ingredients. Ripe tomato, olives, onion, cucumber and the best part – the slab of feta on top.
• Moussaka . Very similar to lasagna , but made with sautéed eggplant instead.
• Souvlaki . Basically anything in a skewer – lamb, chicken, pork, etc.
• Olives . Greeks have been especialized in olives and olive oil for millenia. Try the unique Kalamata olives.
• Tzatziki . My personal favorite dip. Greek yogurt with cucumber bits and garlic. Fresh, simple and delicious and goes well with pretty much anything.
• Saganaki . Deep fried cheese. A calorie bomb but totally worth it.
• Frappé . The hallmark of Greek coffee culture. Ice coffee drink with water and sugar.
• Ouzo . For those cheer moments in a local taverna. Base spirit made of grapes before being flavored with anise.

Travel tips to Greece on a budget 💰

Greece is in general a cheap country and if you’re smart about where you stay and eat, you can get tremendous value for your spendings.

That said, there is a wide range in cost that goes from the villages of mainland like Kalamata all the way up to upscale islands like Ios , Santorini and Mykonos . It’s no exaggeration when I say your daily budget can increase to the double or more (!) between those destinations.

Here are some tips to keep you in control of your budget.

It’s easy to eat cheap.

Gyros , souvlaki and other street snacks are available starting at 3-4 Euros. Order it with a salad instead of fries for a more healthy meal.

Avoid the peak season.

During July and August – the peak summer time in Greece – everyone and their mother decides to visit. Prices of hotels and restaurants can be heavily inflated. Come in spring or fall for a cheaper experience.

Spend more time on the mainland.

If you’re really on a tight budget, it may be a good idea to spend less time the islands and explore the mainland and interior, where I found stuff to be at least 30% more affordable.

Even amongst the Greek islands, there is a big difference in daily budget. The most popular ones like Mykonos can be as double as expensive as going for a more off the beaten track island.

Book everything in advance.

Booking ferries and buses with a couple of months in advance will can save some money Same happens with hotels: the later you book your accommodation, the more the prices can rise (I’ve experienced this myself in a hotel I was eyeing in Santorini !).

Which places would you add on a first itinerary trip to Greece?

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Greece 2025 trip 2, athens, santorini and mykonos, greece 2025, our most sought after destination of the year.

Island hop like a true diva from one deep blue sea to the next with Grecian paradises Mykonos, Santorini and Athens. Stunning sights, fresh seafood and ’Gram-ready photo ops await you in the Mediterranean. 

TRIP DETAILS

Greece is a magical land filled with many beautiful cities and islands to see. To the South, it is surrounded by picture perfect blue waters. The sun rays pour into the water during mystical afternoons as you enjoy a glass of the most delicious wines your taste buds have ever tasted.

TOUR SPECIAL FEATURES

• Shades of Blue Welcome Dinner
• Private Wine Tour
• Catamaran Cruise
• Swim in the Hot Springs
• Wine Tour & Tasting in Santorini
• Beach Day in Mykonos

FULL PACKAGE INCLUDES:

• Roundtrip, economy class flight from Neward EWR to Athens
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• 3 nights at Nous Hotel, Santorini
• 2 nights at Royal Myconian Resort, Mykonos
• 3 nights at Athens Capital Center Hotel, Athens
• Breakfast Daily
• City Tour of Athens
• Visit Acropolis Museum
• Sailing Excursion in Santorini with Lunch on-board
• Swim the Hot Springs near Oia
• Sundress & Floppy Hat Wine & Cheese Tasting
• Panoramic Drive through Athens (Panathenian Stadium, Presidential Residence, Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Arch)
• Ferry to Mykonos
• Free Beach Day in Mykonos
• Touring Delos
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Accommodation details, royal myconian resort - mykonos.

The Royal Myconian is a luxury resort with privileged views over the longest fine sand beach on Mykonos. An illuminated rustic façade of Cycladic stone is the stage curtain to contemporary interiors and vast entertainment decks conceived by a celebrated Greek set designer who takes his dramatic cues from a blend of antiquity and new-age fantasy.

Spacious rooms and suites are cool sanctuaries with private balconies or vast terraces and appointed to the highest standard of comfort, with the option of your own infinity pool or Jacuzzi.

At this distinguished member of Leading Hotels of the World, royal service finds expression as much in the personal touch valued by individual guests, as in the finely honed competence required to orchestrate large-scale events. Outstanding amenities include a panoramic pool deck, a superb spa, state-of-the-art conferencing facilities and, of course, restaurants that celebrate the gourmet experience on which the Collection prides itself.

Nous - Santorini

The elegant and contemporary interiors reinterpret the key elements of Santorini: the burnt timber refers to the island’s volcanic character, the willow shutters call to mind its vineyards, and a color palette of earthy browns, reds and grays refer to its three famous beaches. Materials such as mosaic floors, marble, stone, and wooden walls provide the perfect backdrop to original pieces of design furniture.

• Balcony with sitting area
• King or twin beds
• Free Wi-Fi internet access
• Espresso machine
• Rain shower
• Korres bath amenities, bathrobes, slippers, hair dryer
• Flat screen smart TV
• Direct telephone number + voice mail
• Pillow menu
• Mini bar, electronic safe deposit box
• Original design furniture/Artwork installations
• Non smoking rooms
• 24hours Room Service
• Laundry/dry cleaning service (additional cost)

Athens Capital Center Hotel - Athens

With classic chic and attentive service, Athens Capital Center Hotel MGallery Collection ensures your stay in this ancient city is unforgettable. From its rooftop terrace and pool, sip a house cocktail as you soak in one of Athens’s most enchanting views of the Acropolis. Savour the best of Mediterranean cuisine at the hotel’s restaurant or unwind with a drink in its cultured Galerié Café to admire fine art. Enter an oasis of modern, understated elegance in the heart of one of the world’s oldest cities.

Nestled in Athens’s upmarket Kolonaki district, the hotel is an unrivalled spot for discovering the cradle of Western civilization. From your haven, step out onto Syntagma Square, a site of historical interest with its neoclassical Old Royal Palace housi ng the Hellenic Parliament, its ceremonial Presidential Guard and its famed Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Around the hotel, enjoy high-end boutiques, trendy bars and art galleries. And relax in the National Garden’s lush greenery just a stone’s throw away.

Our hotel is well located at the heart of Kolonaki, the most chic and elegant area of Athens, next to the historical and picturesque Plaka neighbourhood and just a heartbeat away from Monastiraki with its famous traditional flea market.

Reserve Your Trip Now

Book your spot, full package with flights.

SINGLE: $9,799  per person   |   DOUBLE: $7,199  per person

LAND ONLY PACKAGE - NO FLIGHTS

SINGLE: $8,299  per person   |   DOUBLE: $5,699  per person

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

• Spa treatments
• Travel Insurance
• Gratuities for Tour Guide (suggested $10-$20 per day)
• Gratuities for Driver (suggested $5-$10 per day)
• Gratuities for Waiters/waitress (suggested $2 per person)
• Items of a personal nature
• Meals except where noted
• Beverage during meals
• Additional excursion offered by tour guide

TRAVEL INSURANCE:

• Travel Guard

INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT SCHEDULE:

• Flight schedule will be released September 2024.

TRAVEL NOTES:

• Traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates. For this tour, your passport should not expire before November 18, 2025.
• We offer roommate matching for this tour. When making your reservations please select “double occupancy” and when asked for your roommate’s name please enter “request roommate match”. Roommates will not be matched until after 75% of your reservation total has been made.
• The group flight will leave US on May 9, 2025  and arrive in Athens on May 10, 2025 . Check-in into the hotel is May 10, 2025 . 
• Full Itinerary will be emailed to you 60 Days in advance to plan your free time.

AUTOMATIC BILLING PLAN:

You can enroll in our automatic billing and relax knowing that your future payments will be made automatically. When you book, we’ll calculate an evenly divided automatic billing plan for you, and you will know in advance the day of every month that your payment will be processed. Your initial deposit is due at the time of booking, and your future payments will be charged according to the schedule you see on your invoice.  Automatic billing  is available at no charge.

TERMS & POLICIES

• Making reservations for this package signifies your acceptance of our  Terms and Conditions .
• All payments to Premier Travel One and Travel Divas are non-refundable and non-transferrable .  This is because Premier Travel One d/b/a Travel Divas has contractual agreements with hotels, airlines and other vendors that will not allow us to obtain any refunds. This way we can keep our package prices low and allow you to make monthly payments on your vacation.
• Passengers are responsible for ensuring that they have the proper travel documents and MUST CHECK with the respective consulate(s) or visa agency to determine whether any visas or passports are required. Passports are required to be valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel. Some countries require a full blank “VISA” page in the passport for stamping purposes. Any information provided on travel description pertains to US citizens only. Non-US citizens should check with the respective consulate of the country(s) to be visited for current entry requirements.  Reservations must be made in your FULL NAME as it appears on your passport.
• Missing a vacation is bad enough. Losing the money you paid for your vacation is even worse; therefore, we recommend Travel Protection that helps provide coverage for Trip Cancellation, Interruption, Baggage Loss or Delay, Medial Express, and more.  We have a full list of travel insurance vendors. Click here to see referrals. 
• Seat assignments ARE at the discretion of the airline.  Seats for this group tour are only located in economy class. If you require a certain seat, we recommend booking the land only package.
• Prices are subject to change without notice. Please make your reservations today at this low price to be locked in.
• Monthly payments are required to keep your reservations current unless you make larger payments than what is required of your monthly payment plan.  Your invoice will clearly note your payment plan. We suggest you put this payment plan on your personal calendar.
• You must ensure your roommate, if applicable, is also making timely monthly payments.
• Roommate Matching is available.
• You can log-in to our client portal to view your account 24 hours a day.
• Name changes are allowed with a $200 name change fee up until the final payment date and $250 after final payment date plus any vendor fees.
• Late payment of $250 per person is required after final due date listed on your payment plan.  Late payment fees are automatically added to your reservation the day after your final due date.
• All late payment requests must be approved by management before the final payment deadline on your invoice.

IMPORTANT LINKS

Terms and Conditions    |    FAQs of Automatic Billing Option    |    Travel Divas Private Member’s Only Group

P.O. Box 16676 Atlanta, GA 30321

Text Us: (770) 232-6483 [email protected]

Client Support

© 2024 TRAVEL DIVAS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Update April 12, 2024

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Travel Advisory July 26, 2023

Greece - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Greece.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Greece.

If you decide to travel to Greece: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Greece.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Six months of remaining validity recommended.

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10,000 euros or the equivalent.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy athens.

91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue 10160 Athens, Greece Telephone: +(30)(210) 721-2951 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301 Fax: +(30)(210) 724-5313 Email:   [email protected] Facebook

U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki Plateia Commercial Center 43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor 546 23 Thessaloniki Greece Telephone: +30-231-024-2905 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301 Fax: +30 231-024-2927 Email:  [email protected] U.S. Embassy Athens provides all regular consular services including U.S. passports, notarials, and reports of birth and death abroad.

U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki provides notarial service. Embassy Athens consular staff periodically provide regular consular services in Thessaloniki. Please check the U.S. Embassy Athens website for information on the next scheduled visit. Visa services are provided at Embassy Athens only.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of Greece website for the most current visa information.

Greece is a party to the Schengen Agreement; therefore, U.S. citizens may enter Greece without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. For additional details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact sheet .

• For entry into Greece, your passport should have at least six months of remaining validity . While Greek law requires three months of passport validity beyond the intended date of your departure, if you are transiting a country that requires six months of validity, you may not be permitted to continue your trip. We recommend that you have at least six months of validity to avoid any travel disruptions.
• U.S. citizens traveling on a passport reported lost or stolen will not be permitted entry into Greece and may be returned to their original departure point. This decision is the purview of the Greek immigration authorities; the U.S. Embassy cannot intervene. Emergency passports are issued only at the Embassy in Athens. Staff members do not travel to the air, land, or sea ports of entry.
• You must arrive in country with proof of sufficient funds and a return airline ticket or other evidence that you will depart Greece if asked. The sufficient funds requirement is often met with credit cards.
• U.S. official and diplomatic passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa prior to arrival. If you are traveling on a U.S. official or diplomatic passport, you will not be allowed to enter Greece without a visa.
• If traveling on official military orders , review the guidance in the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide .

If you are a U.S. citizen with a passport listing your place of birth as the Northern Republic of Macedonia, the Greek authorities will stamp your passport.

If you are a U.S. citizen with a passport listing your place of birth as Skopje or the Republic of Macedonia, your U.S. passport should be recognized as a valid travel document. However, be aware:

• Greek Immigration officers at ports of entry (land, air, and sea) will not place entry stamps in a passport listing the traveler’s place of birth as Macedonia or the Republic of Macedonia.
• You will be asked to complete a short form on which the entry stamp will be placed.
• Keep the form with your passport while you are in Greece and present it upon departure. If you lose the form, you must visit a police station and file a report before the Greek authorities will permit you to depart the country.

HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Greece.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs information on our website .

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. In the past year, there have been multiple terrorist attacks in Europe. Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities as viable targets. In addition, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational institutions, airports, and other soft targets remain priority locations for possible attacks. U.S. citizens should exercise additional vigilance in these and similar locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Strikes and Demonstrations:

• Domestic strikes, demonstrations, and work stoppages are common throughout Greece and can become violent. Stay informed through local news, hotel security, the U.S. Embassy website , and the Consular Section’s Facebook page . Enroll in STEP to receive alerts sent by the Embassy.
• Transportation sector strikes interrupt traffic, public transportation, taxis, seaports, and airports. Confirm domestic and international flights before heading to the airport.
• Avoid all areas affected by the annual November 17 demonstrations, including the U.S. Embassy.
• Anarchists and criminals have used university campuses as refuges. Demonstrators frequently congregate in the Polytechnic University area, Exarchia, Omonia, and Syntagma Squares in Athens; and at Aristotle Square, Aristotle University, and the Kamara area in Thessaloniki.
• Violent anarchist groups have joined public demonstrations to clash with police and vandalize public and private property.

Crime: Crimes against tourists, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching , occur at popular tourist sites and on public transportation, especially the metro. A common tactic is one person causes a commotion on the metro or pushes travelers to distract them while another person snatches the belongings. Thieves also seek out and break into rental cars to steal passports, valuables, and luggage. The Embassy has received reports of alcohol-induced attacks targeting individual tourists at some holiday resorts and bars.

Take the following precautions:

• Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave bags unattended, especially on the metro and the Athens Airport train or in your vehicle.
• Avoid standing near bus or train doors. Thieves often strike as the doors open then disappear into the crowd.
• Use alcohol in moderation and remain in control.
• Never leave drinks unattended in bars or clubs.
• Be discreet when discussing plans and organizing belongings upon arrival.
• Protect yourself and your money by using well-lit, public ATMs.
• Be aware of internet scams with online thieves posing as loved ones or romantic interests.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime: Report crime to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy at (+30) 210-720-2414 or the Emergency after-hours telephone (+30) 210-729-4444 if you require assistance. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends, with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in certain cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home in certain cases of destitution
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tremors and earthquakes occur regularly.  Forest fires are common, especially during the dry summer months, and occasionally cause road closures. In the event of a natural disaster, follow the instructions of local authorities. Contact the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, which responds to emergencies, at 210-335-9900 for more information. Operators speak English. Monitor the U.S. Embassy Athens’ website and Consular Facebook page .

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities, such as Athens or Thessaloniki. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Possession of a U.S. passport will not prevent you from being arrested, prosecuted, or jailed.

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Marijuana is illegal in Greece.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail.
• Photographing military installations is prohibited and may lead to arrest.
• Mace or pepper-spray canisters are illegal in Greece. Such items will be confiscated, and police may arrest or detain you.
• Carry your passport or some form of photo identification at all times. Police may detain you for questioning if you do not have proper identification with you.

Some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Greek Antiquities: Customs authorities strictly regulate the export of Greek antiquities, including rocks from archaeology sites. Do not remove anything, no matter how small, from archaeological or historical sites. Do not purchase protected antiquities and carry receipts for any purchases that may appear to be antiquities.

Military Service for Dual Nationals:

• Greek males between 19 and 45 are required to perform military service.
• If the Greek government considers you to be a Greek citizen, you may be required to fulfill this obligation whether or not you consider yourself Greek or possess a U.S. or third country’s passport.
• Authorities can prevent you from leaving Greece until you complete your military obligations . Contact the Greek embassy or nearest Greek consulate with questions.
• Generally, required military service will not affect your U.S. citizenship, but contact U.S. Embassy Athens if you have questions.

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Greece. LGBTI individuals in Greece are protected by anti-discrimination laws, and gender identity is among the grounds covered by laws against hate speech; however, non-governmental organizations report that social discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is widespread in Greece and violence against LGBTI individuals remains a problem.

See our LGBTI travel information page and section six of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While Greek law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical or intellectual disabilities and local law requires access to buildings, sidewalks, and public transportation, application and enforcement of these laws is lacking.

• Handicapped parking spaces and sidewalk ramps are often occupied or blocked by parked vehicles.
• Sidewalks often are narrow with broken paving stones and large holes and obstructed by trees and street signs.
• Buildings with ramps might lack accessible elevators or bathrooms.
• A small percentage of public buildings (primarily in Athens) have full accessibility. Some buildings and intersections include accommodations for visually-impaired travelers.
• The Athens metro and Athens International Airport are fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
• Ask your hotel about accessibility before booking.

The Deputy Ombudsman for Social Welfare handles complaints related to persons with disabilities, especially those related to employment, social security, and transportation.

Students: See our students abroad page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

Most public medical facilities in Greece offer adequate care, although service quality and hospital appearance may differ from the United States. Some private hospitals have affiliations with U.S. facilities and provide high-quality care. Many doctors trained in the United States or elsewhere in Europe.

• Private hospitals usually require proof of adequate insurance or cash before admitting a patient. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Public hospitals often employ minimal nursing staff overnight and on weekends in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare is not accepted overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. You may be required to pay upfront and seek reimbursement from your insurance company. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

We strongly recommend that travelers purchase travel insurance before their trips to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Greek Embassy or consulate in the United States , the Customs office at Athens International Airport (+30 210-3542126) or the National Organization of Medicines ( [email protected] , www.eof.gr , +30 213-204-0000) to ensure the medication is legal in Greece. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Short-term Car Rentals: Greek law requires that visitors carry a valid U.S. driver’s license and an international driver’s permit (IDP), even if the rental company does not request to see your IDP. The Embassy does not issue IDPs. You must obtain your IDP in the United States from the American Automobile Association ( AAA ) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance ( AATA ). Contact AAA directly to inquire about their mail in option that will allow you to apply from overseas, but note that it will likely take days or weeks. If you drive without these documents, you may face high fines (1,000 Euros or more) or be responsible for all expenses in the event of an accident.

Road Conditions and Safety: Greece has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in the European Union. Exercise extreme caution as both a driver and a pedestrian, and follow these tips:

• Drive defensively.
• Expect heavy traffic, obscured traffic signs, and vehicles traveling at high speeds.
• Driving at night in inclement weather and on mountain roads can be hazardous.
• Local law requires all motorcyclists to wear a helmet.
• Check for motorbikes between lanes and on either side of you.
• Do not rely on lane markings. On many two-lane highways, slower traffic will drive on the shoulder, and cars will pass straddling the center double-yellow line.
• Review your insurance coverage before renting. Most insurance companies require that you have both your valid U.S. license and an international driver’s permit (IDP) for coverage in Greece. Small motorbike and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rental firms frequently carry no insurance and require customers to cover the cost of all damages to their vehicles. Your insurance company may not cover two-wheel or ATV rentals.

Traffic Laws:

• Talking or texting on a mobile phone while driving is illegal. The police check phone records when investigating accidents.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, and police conduct random alcohol testing.
• A Greek license is required if you stay more than 185 days in Greece. Contact the Regional Office of Transportation and Communications for more information.

See our road safety page for more information, including information on IDPs. Visit the Greek National Tourist Office website for more helpful tips.                                        

Public Transportation: Purchase and validate your ticket by touching it to the pad on the turnstile prior to boarding a bus or train. Inspectors randomly check for tickets. If you do not have a ticket, have the wrong ticket, or fail to validate your ticket, you could be fined up to 60 times the basic fare.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Greece’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Greece’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Greece should monitor U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci , the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, https://homeport.uscg.mil , and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal . Greece implemented a Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships Fee on all private and professional leisure ships with a total length of over seven meters, regardless of flag, in Greek territorial waters. Mariners should consult https://www.aade.gr/polites/etepai for details.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Greece . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.”

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Important to Know

Travel2greece.

Do you Travel2Greece?

When travelling to our country, it is advisable to bear in mind the following:

All visitors to Greece and anyone with a credit/debit card issued in a foreign country will not be affected by the measures to limit bank withdrawals. The measures announced recently, do not apply to those wishing to make transactions and withdrawals with a credit/debit card issued in their home country.”

As a consumer, you are protected by  Greek consumer protection law  for all transactions you make while travelling in the country. All enterprises, regardless of their nature (tourist or otherwise), are obliged to issue written receipts for the total amount they receive. Possession of a receipt safeguards the consumer in the event of any claim or dispute with the enterprises. Foreign visitors must ensure that they have valid medical cover before departing.

The following is valid during your stay:

The hotelier is obliged to licence vacant rooms to customers and provide all advertised amenities.

Within 3 days of receiving an enquiry for a room, by any means (telephone, letter, or email), the hotelier is obliged to inform the customer by print whether or not they accept the booking, and include details on the booking (a type of room, length of stay, price). A written response protects both the customer and the hotelier.

The deposit for the booking cannot exceed 25% of the total accommodation cost, and on the other hand, cannot be less than the charge for one night.

In the event that the customer wishes to cancel a booking, and the cancellation is made 21 days prior to the agreed arrival date, the hotelier is obliged to refund the deposit in full, while for cancellations made within 21 days, the customer must pay the hotelier the 50% of the total cost of the cancelled booking.

In the event that the hotelier is unable to provide rooms they have confirmed with customers, they are obliged to secure customers’ stay in alternative accommodation of at least the same category, in the same town, which offers the same amenities and services as those advertised by their own establishment.

The  hotelier  is only responsible for valuable belongings entrusted to them by the customer, and for which they have issued the relevant receipt.

Keeping  pets of any kind in a hotel is forbidden unless the hotel provides a designated area for pets. In all cases, a prior arrangement on this issue must be made between the hotelier and the tourist consumer.

The following is valid for transactions with tourist agencies:

The tourist agency is responsible to the consumer for all the services they have sold, including those provided by third parties (hotels, restaurants, car rentals, etc.), except in cases of personal or third party liability, or force majeure.

In all cases, the customers of a tourist agency or car rental agency must be informed by print about the terms under which services or products are provided prior to making a purchase.

Specifically, for  Organized Trips  (P.O. 339/96), which Greek law defines as a fixed combination of at least two of the following elements, i.e. transport, accommodation or other services (participation in meetings or events of a professional, cultural or artistic nature, meals, guided tours etc.), it is obligatory to sign a relevant contract, which includes:

The terms attached to the services are included in the contract (cost and category of accommodation).

Means of transport, meals included, itinerary, information pertaining to  passports and necessary visas ,  cancellation policy , guided tours, entry to archaeological sites and museums, other recreational services, etc.).

An insurance policy will state by print that in case of insolvency or bankruptcy of the tourist agency, the consumer, above and beyond other claims, will be entitled to a refund of the full amount paid, as well as immediate payment of repatriation expenses.

In all cases, the  tourist-consumer :

Should acquire, for their own convenience, detailed information regarding the use of public transport at their destination, especially with regards to the cost of the journey, ticket validity and cancellations, and recommended arrival times in advance of the departure of the service.

Has to be aware, when using taxis, that drivers are obliged, upon request, to issue official receipts for the total cost of the journey, which include the vehicle’s registration number and owner’s name.

In the event of any omission or violations of the above, you may submit a complaint or claim on a 24h basis to the  Tourist Police  at the number 1571.

Privacy Overview

May Is The Best Time To Visit These 5 Insane Destinations

M ay is a magical time for travel, especially to some of the most incredible destinations around the world. The month of May offers the perfect blend of favorable weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of natural beauty coming to life as flowers bloom and greenery bursts with color. 

Here, you’ll find the best destinations to travel to in May for memorable getaways full of delicious foods, stunning views, fewer crowds, and even cultural events. 

1. Tuscany, Italy

Taking in the stunning views of endless rows of vineyards and rolling hills in one of the world’s top wine regions is an experience that defines a trip to Tuscany, Italy. The region’s landscape is like a beautiful painting, with hills covered in vineyards and olive trees creating an incredibly picturesque scene.

Having personally explored Italy during May, I can say firsthand how amazing Tuscany is during this time of year. The weather in Tuscany in May is just right, not too hot and not too cold, usually ranging from the mid-50s to upper 70s Fahrenheit.

It’s perfect for leisurely walks and enjoying the fantastic wines the region is known for. Plus, May brings the landscape to life with blooming flowers and lush greenery, making it even more beautiful.

One of the best things about visiting Tuscany in May is that it’s less crowded than it can be in the peak summer months. Fewer visitors are around, so you can enjoy popular spots, historical sites, and scenic views without dealing with large crowds.

It also makes it easier to find accommodations and creates a more relaxed vibe overall, allowing you to soak in the charm of Tuscany truly.

2. Santorini, Greece

Imagine strolling around a small Greek island bursting with color, sunlight, and warm weather. There’s nothing quite like Santorini, Greece, with its famous white buildings against the backdrop of the beautiful Aegean Sea. The island’s charm lies in its stunning architecture and the dramatic cliffs overlooking the blue waters.

The weather in Santorini during May is just right, with temperatures ranging from around the mid-60s to upper 70s. This makes it perfect for enjoying the island without the intense summer heat. It’s a beautiful time to wander through the narrow streets of Oia and Fira, each offering breathtaking views and countless shops and restaurants to explore.

One of the best things about visiting Santorini in May is the peaceful atmosphere compared to the busier summer months. With fewer tourists around, you can thoroughly soak in the beauty of the caldera, savor leisurely meals at local restaurants, and embrace the laid-back island vibe. 

May also brings out the vibrant colors of spring, with blooming flowers and lush greenery enhancing the island’s natural beauty. My personal favorite is the bright pink flowers that bloom on Bougainvillea Trees.

Exploring Santorini in May allows you to experience the best of the island, from its famous sunsets in Oia to boat trips to the volcanic hot springs. It’s a time when you can truly enjoy the essence of Santorini without the crowds and intense heat.

3. Marrakech, Morocco

Experiencing the lively atmosphere of Marrakech, Morocco, is like stepping into a vibrant world of colors and culture. Marrakech is famous for its bustling markets, lively streets, and historic sites that showcase its rich heritage.

May is perfect for exploring the city because it’s not too hot, with temperatures ranging from the upper 60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. It’s a fantastic time to wander through the maze-like streets of the old city, where you’ll discover a treasure trove of spices, textiles, and local crafts.

One of the best things about visiting Marrakech in May is the relaxed vibe compared to busier times of the year. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy the city’s attractions, such as the Bahia Palace, the Jardin Majorelle, and vibrant souks without crowds. 

4. Nassau, The Bahamas

Nassau is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and historical sites. It is also home to the world-famous Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas Resort.

Having personally visited Nassau, I can say it’s a fun-filled place overflowing with a vibrant atmosphere and endless things to do. The weather in Nassau during May is absolutely perfect, with temperatures ranging from the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, making it incredible for enjoying outdoor adventures and water activities without feeling too hot.

It’s the perfect time to lounge on the beautiful beaches, wander through the bustling Straw Market for local crafts, and explore historical landmarks like Fort Charlotte and the Queen’s Staircase.

One of the best things about visiting Nassau in May is that the temperature is just right, and it’s between spring break and summer crowds. With fewer tourists, you can fully enjoy the beach life, indulge in Bahamian cuisine at beachfront restaurants, and discover the underwater world through snorkeling or diving without the hustle and bustle. 

5. Brighton, United Kingdom

Brighton is known for its iconic pier, lively beachfront, and colorful neighborhoods that reflect its creative spirit.

The weather in Brighton in May is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from around 50 degrees to the mid-60s Fahrenheit. This makes it ideal for seaside strolls without the summer crowds.

It’s a wonderful time to wander along the pebbled beach, explore the quirky shops and cafes in the North Laine district, and marvel at architectural gems like the Royal Pavilion.

One of the highlights of visiting Brighton in May is the lively atmosphere and cultural events. With the city coming to life after winter, you can experience the Brighton Fringe Festival, featuring a vibrant mix of performing arts, music, and comedy.

May also brings opportunities to enjoy traditional fish and chips by the beach, take leisurely bike rides along the promenade, and discover local art galleries and museums.

Exploring Brighton in May allows you to embrace its seaside charm and artistic flair. Brighton captures the essence of a British seaside getaway, whether you’re relaxing by the sea, immersing yourself in cultural events, or savoring local cuisine.

Why You Should Visit These 5 Epic Destinations In May

May is an excellent time to explore each of these unique places known for their charm and experiences. 

Whether you’re captivated by Tuscany’s stunning vineyards, Santorini’s scenic cliffs, Marrakech’s bustling markets, Nassau’s tropical paradise, or Brighton’s seaside appeal, May brings a perfect mix of pleasant weather, cultural events, and fewer crowds.

So, grab your bags and head off on an unforgettable vacation full of all the excitement these destinations offer.

Travel2Greece by Travelive Accepted Into Virtuoso®

On-site is now part of exclusive luxury travel network . athens, greece (april 27, 2016).

This designation recognizes and strengthens Travel2Greece's leadership in luxury travel in Athens, Mainland Greece and the Greek Islands. As an On-Site, Virtuoso travel advisors will utilize Travel2Greece's extensive capabilities and unmatched level of service to create truly life-enriching travel programs for their discerning clients. The company will secure exceptional offers and exclusive privileges for Virtuoso clients, including complimentary room upgrades, airport transfers, special dining experiences, shore excursions and innovative custom itineraries.

"We are very proud of the honor of becoming a Virtuoso partner," says Chalvantzis. "Virtuoso and Travel2Greece by Travelive both share a commitment to white-glove service and quality travel experiences for the valued clients of luxury travel agencies. It is only natural that the two companies pursue a closer relationship. In the years to come we hope that all Virtuoso agency members and their clients will experience our service and commitment to excellence," he concluded.

Travel2Greece by Travelive joins Virtuoso's collection of the finest luxury hotels, resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour operators and other suppliers worldwide. These partners, who specialize in world-class client service and experiences, secure Virtuoso clients superior offerings, rare opportunities and exceptional value. These prestigious providers are able to market to Virtuoso clients via network vehicles and to Virtuoso agencies through multiple communications channels and events. Those include Virtuoso Travel Week, luxury travel's largest worldwide gathering, and Virtuoso Symposium, an elite event for the network's top agency and supplier principals.

Its acceptance into Virtuoso gives Travel2Greece direct relationships with the world's leading leisure travel agencies in North and Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. The endorsement from these top agencies and the esteemed affiliation with the finest travel providers result in an average annual sales increase of 15-40 percent in Virtuoso-generated revenue for preferred suppliers.

For more information about Travel2Greece by Travelive click  here .

About Travel2Greece by Travelive .

Travel2Greece by Travelive offers a high level of bespoke service to clients traveling to Greece. With offices in Athens, Greece and Boca Raton, Florida, Travel2Greece by Travelive offers a complete luxury service for travelers to Athens, mainland Greece and the Greek Islands. Our USA office offers sales, marketing and accounting support. Our Athens office oversees contracting, partner relationships, confirmations, sales and acts as our 24/7 customer service department. The Athens office remains open until midnight local time or 5PM Eastern, Monday through Friday. We offer competitive net pricing or premium commission. Pricing is offered in both USD and Euro. All major credit cards are accepted as are agency checks and PayPal. Commission payments are made within 15 days of travel. Travel2Greece by Travelive offers our agent partners the advantage of working with a US company (with all the local, financial and legal benefits) while also offering the full support of an onsite company. All Travelive hotels are inspected annually to ensure that they maintain a high level of service and accommodations. At many of our properties, we hand-select the rooms that we sell. Travelive clients are eligible for priority upgrades and our contracts ensure that we can offer availability, even after sell out in many cases. Our tour guides are hand selected based on their local knowledge and experience as well as for their expertise. We offer a full range of private special interest day tours from architecture, to food and wine, to shopping, and can handle any request. Transfer drivers are cherry-picked based on commitment to customer service, presentation and upkeep of vehicle and English fluency.

About Virtuoso

Virtuoso® is the leading international travel agency network specializing in luxury and experiential travel. This by-invitation-only organization comprises over 380 agency members with more than 11,400 elite travel advisors in over 30 countries throughout North America, Latin America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East. Drawing upon its preferred relationships with 1,700 of the world's best hotels and resorts, cruise lines, airlines, tour companies and premier destinations, the network provides its upscale clientele with exclusive amenities, rare experiences and privileged access. More than (U.S.) $15.5 billion in annual travel sales makes Virtuoso a powerhouse in the luxury travel industry. For more information, visit  virtuoso.com .

Media Contacts:

Sonia Athan Vice President, Agencies Travelive  +1 561.480.7422 [email protected]

Misty Ewing Belles Director, Global Public Relations  Virtuoso  202.553.8817  [email protected]

United States

• Star International Group Inc., Travelive
• 700 E Boynton Beach Blvd, #1408
• Boynton Beach, FL 33435
• Tel: +1 (561) 419-7205
• Email: [email protected]
• Seller of Travel Registration License # ST39252
• Travelive S.A.
• 102-104 Vas. Pavlou Str., Voula Center
• Athens, Greece 16673
• Tel: +30 (210) 968-9460
• +30 (210) 968-9461
• Piazzale Biancamano 8
• Milan, Italy 20121
• Hektoroviceva ulica 2, Grand Centar
• Zagreb, Croatia 10000
• Paseo de la Castellana 81, 15th Floor
• Madrid, Spain 28046
• Tel: +34 608925464
• M Avenue Project
• Marrakech, Morocco 40000
• US Toll Free:
• 888-377-LIVE(5483)
• UK Toll Free:
• 0-808-120-7605
• Australia Toll Free:
• 1-800-885-924

partnerships & associations

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