How to plan a trip to Greece

When you start thinking about how to plan a trip to Greece, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Do you focus on ancient ruins in Athens, relax on the islands, or explore the mainland by car? With so many options, getting the timing and logistics right makes a big difference.

This Greece travel guide walks you through the essentials, from when to go and how to get around, to deciding where to spend your time. You’ll also find example itineraries to help you plan a realistic route based on how many days you have.

Step 1: Define your travel goals

Before you book anything, get clear on what you want out of the trip. Greece is more than just islands and ruins. You can hike mountain trails, visit ancient sites, eat your way through cities, or do absolutely nothing on a quiet beach.

Start by asking yourself a few simple questions:

• Do you want to move around or stay in one place?
• Are you more interested in culture and history, or food and relaxation?
• Do you prefer buzzing towns or quiet villages?
• Is this a first visit, or are you coming back for something specific?

If you’re into history, base yourself in Athens or the Peloponnese. If you want beach time with a local feel, head to Naxos or Crete. If you're chasing nightlife and iconic views, Santorini and Mykonos deliver, but they come with crowds and higher prices.

You don’t have to see everything in one trip. Focus on what matters most to you, and build your route around that. It’ll save time, money, and a lot of backtracking.

Step 2: Choose the best time to visit

Your travel goals will determine when you should go. Each season in Greece offers a different experience:

• Summer (June to August): Long days, hot weather, and fully running ferry routes. This is the best time for beach holidays, swimming, and nightlife, especially on islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Ios. It’s also the most crowded and expensive time to visit.
• Shoulder seasons (April to May and September to October): Fewer crowds, mild weather, and lower prices. Ideal for sightseeing, hiking, and visiting popular spots without the heat or chaos. September, in particular, is great for warm sea temperatures and the harvest season on the islands.
• Winter (November to March): Fewer tourists, shorter days, and limited ferry service. Best for city breaks in Athens or Thessaloniki, mountain villages, and snow in the north. Some islands shut down almost entirely, especially smaller ones.

When deciding the best time to visit Greece, think about what matters most to you. If your trip is all about sunbathing and island hopping, summer is ideal. If you want to explore ruins without crowds or hike coastal trails, go in spring or autumn. For a quieter, cultural trip focused on food, museums, and local life, winter has its own charm.

Always check ferry schedules, opening hours, and weather conditions before booking. What’s open in July might be closed by late October, especially on the smaller islands.

Step 3: Set your budget and trip length

Before you start booking flights or ferries, you’ll need to know two things: how much you can spend, and how much time you’ve got. Both will shape where you go and how fast you move.

How much does a trip to Greece cost

Greece suits a range of travel styles.

• Budget travel: You can travel on a budget by staying in hostels, simple guesthouses, or budget Airbnb accommodations. Public buses, slower ferries, and casual tavernas keep daily costs low, around $50 to $80. Stick to one region or island group to avoid spending too much on transport.
• Mid-range travel: Expect to spend $150 to $250 per day if you're staying in boutique hotels, dining at sit-down restaurants, and mixing ferries with the occasional domestic flight. This is the most flexible option for most travelers.
• Luxury travel: For upscale resorts, fine dining, private tours, and business-class flights or high-speed ferries, daily costs can easily exceed $400.

How long should you spend in Greece?

Trip length matters just as much as budget. Trying to see too much in too little time is the most common mistake first-time visitors make.

• Five days in Greece: Enough for Athens and one island, if you plan carefully. Works best if you stick to well-connected places like Santorini or Naxos.
• A week in Greece: Gives you time to combine the capital with two destinations. For example, Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini, or Athens and the Peloponnese. Still a fast-paced trip, but doable.
• 10 days in Greece: This is the sweet spot. You can island-hop without feeling rushed, or combine the mainland with a longer stay on one island. It’s enough time to settle into the rhythm of Greek life and cover more ground without backtracking.

Short on time? Focus on fewer places. Have longer? Slow it down and explore lesser-known islands or inland regions.

Step 4: Pick your regions and islands

Once you know how long you're going and what kind of trip you're after, it’s time to choose where to focus. Greece has over 6,000 islands, a mountainous mainland, and a lot of distance between major sights. You can’t see it all in one trip, so choose one or two regions that match your goals.

Mainland or islands?

Mainland Greece

Best for ancient sites, road trips, and traditional villages. You’ll find fewer tourists outside of Athens, especially in the Peloponnese, central Greece, and the north. Highlights include Delphi, Meteora, Olympia, and Nafplio, all among the best places to visit in Greece if you're interested in history and archaeology. Rent a car to get the most out of your time.

Greek islands

The islands are ideal for beaches, boat trips, and a slower pace. Island-hopping sounds appealing, but it can be time-consuming, especially if you're crossing between island groups. Ferry routes also depend on the season, with fewer options in spring and autumn.

To keep your trip to Greece manageable, choose one island group and stay within it. The best islands in Greece for first-time visitors include Santorini for iconic views, Naxos for a more local feel, Paros for its balance of beaches and villages, and Crete for sheer variety.

Where to go on your first trip

• Athens: Start or end here. The Acropolis, great food, and an energetic street life make it worth at least a couple of days.
• Cyclades: The classic island experience. Santorini and Mykonos are the headliners, but Naxos, Paros, and Milos offer better value and fewer crowds. These are some of the best islands in Greece for a mix of beaches, food, and charm.
• Crete: Greece’s largest island is a destination in its own right. You’ll find Minoan ruins, hiking trails, mountain villages, and long stretches of coastline. A well-planned Crete itinerary can include archaeological sites like Knossos, the Samaria Gorge, and quiet beaches on the south coast.
• Peloponnese: Good for a road trip. Easy to reach from Athens, with a mix of ruins, beaches, and fortified towns like Monemvasia and Nafplio.
• Ionian Islands: Lush and greener than the Cyclades. Think Corfu, Kefalonia, and Zakynthos. Great beaches and a more Italian feel.
• Northern Greece: Less visited, but full of surprises. Thessaloniki is a laid-back city with a strong food scene. You’ll also find mountain hikes, monasteries, and fewer crowds.

Step 5: Plan your itinerary

Once you’ve chosen your regions, it’s time to shape your route. A well-structured Greece itinerary saves time, reduces travel stress, and helps avoid unnecessary backtracking. Distances can be longer than expected, and transport options vary with the season, so planning is essential.

Focus on geography

Build your trip around destinations that are close to each other. The Cyclades are easy to link by ferry. The Ionian Islands work well together, too. On the mainland, driving through regions like the Peloponnese or central Greece makes more sense than bouncing between far-apart sights.

Don’t assume all islands are connected. Ferry routes are often seasonal and not always direct. Check current timetables before locking in any bookings.

Keep travel time in check

Even short transfers can take up half a day. Packing, getting to the ferry or airport, checking in, boarding, and settling into your next stop all add up. Try to spend at least two nights in each location. If transfers are long or awkward, allow three.

Avoid fitting too much into one route. Trying to include Athens, Santorini, Meteora, and Crete in a single trip usually means long hours in transit and not much time on the ground.

Make it flow

If you're arriving and departing from Athens, consider looping your route back there. If you're flying into one city and out of another, plan your itinerary so it moves in a clear direction. Avoid zigzagging across the country to catch flights or ferries you could have started closer to.

Step 6: Book your international flights

Most international travelers get to Greece by air. Athens is the main gateway, but it’s not the only option. Choosing the right arrival and departure points can save time, especially if you’re planning to visit just one region or focus on the islands.

Best airports for international arrivals

• Athens International Airport (ATH): The busiest airport in Greece, with direct flights from major cities in Europe, North America, and the Middle East. If you're planning to explore the mainland or combine Athens with the islands, this is the most reliable choice.
• Thessaloniki (SKG): Serves northern Greece and is useful if you're heading to Halkidiki, Mount Olympus, or the Macedonian region. Fewer international connections than Athens, but well-linked within Europe.
• Heraklion (HER) and Chania (CHQ): These airports serve Crete. In summer, they have direct flights from European hubs. If you’re following a dedicated Crete itinerary, flying straight here can save time.
• Island airports: Santorini (JTR), Mykonos (JMK), Rhodes (RHO), and Corfu (CFU) all have international flights, mostly seasonal. These are convenient if you’re starting or ending your trip on the islands.

Tips for booking flights

• Flights are cheapest when booked early, especially for peak season (June to September).
• Consider flying into one airport and out of another to avoid doubling back.
• International flights into smaller airports are usually seasonal and may require a stop in Athens or another European city.

Before booking, make sure your arrival airport matches the first stop in your itinerary. Backtracking between islands and the mainland wastes time and adds cost.

Step 7: Sort internal transport

Transport inside the country is one of the trickier parts of figuring out how to plan a trip to Greece. The country is spread out, ferry schedules change by season, and not all destinations are easy to connect. Planning how to get around Greece early helps avoid missed connections, wasted days, and long backtracking routes.

Ferries

Ferries are the main way to travel between islands. Some run year-round, but many are seasonal and less frequent in spring or autumn. Most ferries depart from Athens' main port, Piraeus, with additional routes from Rafina and Lavrio.

• Book ahead in summer, especially on popular routes like Athens to Santorini or Mykonos.
• Fast ferries are quicker but more expensive and can be rough in windy weather.
• Slower ferries are cheaper and more stable, but take longer.

Check up-to-date routes and timings before finalizing your itinerary. Two islands that look close on the map might not be directly connected.

Domestic flights

Flying can save time, especially when connecting distant regions. Crete, the Dodecanese, and some Cycladic islands have airports with regular domestic flights.

• Flights are often quicker than ferries but require airport transfers and advance booking.
• Athens is the main hub for most routes, but there are some direct island-to-island connections in high season.

Buses and trains

Public buses are the best option for reaching smaller towns and cities on the mainland. The KTEL network is reliable and covers much of the country.

• Trains are limited but useful on specific routes like Athens to Thessaloniki or Kalambaka (for Meteora).
• Don't rely on trains for island or rural travel, the network is minimal outside key regions.

Car rental

A car gives you flexibility on the mainland and in larger islands like Crete or the Peloponnese. Many historic sites and remote villages are unreachable by public transport.

• You’ll need an International Driving Permit to rent a car with a non-EU license.
• Roads are generally in good condition, but parking can be tight in older towns.

Plan your transport method according to your route. In some cases, combining ferries with flights and local buses gives you the most efficient itinerary.

Step 8: Book accommodation

Once your route is planned and your transport is sorted, it’s time to book places to stay in Greece. Where you base yourself matters; it can shape how you experience a place, how much walking or driving you’ll do, and how easy it is to catch ferries or buses.

When to book

Accommodation fills up fast in summer, especially on popular islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros. If you’re traveling between June and September, book well in advance. In spring or autumn, you’ll have more flexibility. Winter availability depends on the destination, many island hotels close between November and March.

Where to stay

In Athens, staying in central areas like Plaka, Monastiraki, or Koukaki puts you within walking distance of major sights and restaurants.

On the islands, choose towns with easy access to ports or bus routes. Staying right in the main town often saves time.

Here are some of the best areas to stay on popular islands:

Best areas to stay in Mykonos

• Mykonos Town (Chora): Best for nightlife, restaurants, and quick access to ferry ports.
• Ornos: Quieter than Chora but still well connected. Good for families and beach access.
• Platis Gialos: Beach-focused, with boat taxis to other south coast beaches.

Best areas to stay in Santorini

• Fira: Central, walkable, and well connected by bus. Good for first-time visitors.
• Oia: Famous for sunset views, but more expensive and often crowded.
• Kamari: On the east coast, close to the beach and much more affordable.

Best areas to stay in Crete

• Chania Old Town: Good mix of atmosphere, food, and access to the west coast.
• Heraklion: Best for visiting Knossos and connecting to ferries or flights.
• Rethymno: Smaller, more relaxed town between Chania and Heraklion.
• Agios Nikolaos: Best for the east side of the island and day trips to Spinalonga.

Best areas to stay in Corfu

• Corfu Town (Kerkyra): The best base for exploring the island and soaking up local culture.
• Paleokastritsa: A scenic village on the west coast with beaches and good hiking.
• Dassia or Gouvia: North of Corfu Town, with easy beach access and frequent buses.

Types of accommodation

You’ll find everything from budget hostels and family-run guesthouses to high-end villas and boutique hotels. The standard is generally good, but quality and price vary widely between regions.

• Budget: Hostels, dorms, and simple guesthouses
• Mid-range: Small hotels, studios, and Airbnbs with kitchenettes
• High-end: Boutique stays, beach resorts, and private villas

Where you stay affects more than your comfort; it shapes your access to transport, food, and local life. Once your itinerary is set, book accommodation early for popular spots, and leave some flexibility in quieter regions if you prefer to adjust on the go.

Step 9: Reserve tickets and activities

Once you’ve booked your accommodation, it’s time to look at entry tickets and activities. Some of the most popular things to do in Greece require booking, especially in high season. This step is often overlooked, but it can make a big difference in how smoothly your trip runs.

If you're figuring out how to plan a trip to Greece that avoids long lines, sold-out time slots, or limited group sizes, booking ahead is essential.

When to book in advance

• Major ancient sites: The Acropolis, Knossos, Ancient Olympia, and Delphi all get busy in summer. Timed entry tickets and skip-the-line options are often available.
• Popular tours: Day trips to Delos, Samaria Gorge hikes, Santorini boat cruises, and cooking classes in Crete can fill up days or weeks ahead.
• Special experiences: Sunset catamaran sails, winery visits, and guided food tours are limited in capacity and often run only once per day.

What you don’t need to rush

• Local museums and galleries: Most can be visited without booking, though a few offer discounts for early reservations.
• Less-visited ruins and towns: Many archaeological sites outside the main tourist circuit have walk-up entry.

How to plan around activities

Build some flexibility into your schedule, especially when booking outdoor activities that depend on the weather. Avoid stacking your itinerary too tightly. It’s better to plan one activity per day and leave room for spontaneous discoveries.

Booking early isn’t just about securing spots, it also helps you plan more efficiently, avoid wasted time, and stay focused on what you actually want to experience.

Step 10: Final travel checks

The last step in planning your trip is making sure the basics are covered. Documents, insurance, and a few small details can make a big difference once you're on the ground. This part often gets overlooked, but it's a key part of understanding how to plan a trip to Greece that runs smoothly from start to finish.

Entry requirements

For U.S. passport holders, Greece is part of the Schengen Area. You can visit for up to 90 days without a visa. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen zone.

Keep an eye on the latest updates regarding the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which is expected to become mandatory soon.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is not required, but it’s strongly recommended. It can cover medical emergencies, cancellations, lost luggage, and unexpected delays, all of which can happen, especially if you’re island-hopping or renting a car.

Driving permits

If you plan to drive in Greece, you’ll need a valid U.S. license along with an International Driving Permit (IDP). These are easy to get through the AAA before your trip and are often required by rental companies.

Practical reminders

• Print or download all tickets, confirmations, and transport details. Wi-Fi and mobile signal aren’t guaranteed in remote areas or on ferries.
• Check baggage policies for domestic flights and ferries. They may differ from your international airline.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and light layers; even summer evenings can be cool in the islands or mountains.

Once these are sorted, you’re ready to go. The planning is done. Now it’s just about showing up and seeing it all for yourself.

People also ask

Planning your route is only part of the experience. These Greece travel tips cover the smaller details that make a big difference, from local customs to dining habits and how to avoid common mistakes.

What are the tipping customs in Greece?

Tipping isn’t mandatory in Greece, but it’s appreciated. In restaurants, locals usually round up the bill or leave one to two euros per person. For more formal service, a 5 to 10 percent tip is polite. In cafés, leaving some small change is fine. You don’t need to tip taxi drivers unless they help with luggage or go out of their way. Always check if the service is already included.

Is the tap water safe to drink in Greece?

Tap water is safe to drink in most of mainland Greece, including Athens and Thessaloniki. On many islands, though, the water is either not potable or heavily chlorinated and better avoided. Locals usually buy bottled water, which is cheap and widely available. Check with your accommodation, they’ll let you know if the tap water is fine or not. In general, err on the side of caution on smaller islands.

What should I avoid doing in Greece as a visitor?

Most Greeks are warm and welcoming, but there are a few cultural no-gos to keep in mind. Avoid pointing at people, especially with an open palm, which is considered rude. Don’t enter churches or monasteries without dressing respectfully: cover shoulders and knees. Trying to haggle in shops or restaurants is frowned upon. And while taking photos is fine in most places, always ask before photographing people or private homes.

How do I get mobile data in Greece?

If you’re staying for more than a few days, buying a local SIM card is usually cheaper than using international roaming. You’ll find mobile shops at airports and in most towns. Popular providers include Cosmote, Vodafone, and WIND. A basic prepaid plan with several gigabytes of data costs around €10 to €20. You’ll need your passport to register the SIM. If your phone supports eSIMs, you can set it up before arrival.

What’s the best way to avoid tourist traps in Greece?

To avoid tourist traps, skip restaurants with laminated photo menus, aggressive hosts, or prices listed only in English. Go where locals eat: small, family-run tavernas usually serve better food for less. Stay clear of souvenir shops near major attractions unless you’re just browsing. When visiting islands, consider staying in smaller villages rather than the main port towns, where prices are often inflated and quality can be hit or miss.

What are typical eating times in Greece?

Greeks eat later than many visitors are used to. Lunch often starts around 2 or 3 pm, and dinner rarely begins before 8 pm. Restaurants may be open earlier, but the atmosphere is quiet until later in the evening. Many locals enjoy a slow meal with multiple courses, and it's common to share dishes. If you're hungry earlier, bakeries and small cafés usually have sandwiches, pies, or snacks available all day.

Need help turning your ideas into a real itinerary? Our Greece travel experts can help you build a route that fits your style, pace, and budget. From island-hopping to road trips through the mainland, they know what works and what to skip.

For a trip that goes beyond the usual, explore our tailor-made travel service and get a plan built just for you.