Greece itinerary (7, 10 & 14 days)

Figuring out how much time to spend in Greece can be tricky. Do you focus on Athens and a couple of islands, or spread your trip across the mainland and the Cyclades? Greece has a lot to see, from archaeological sites and monasteries perched on rock pillars to cliffside villages and island beaches.

Each region moves at its own pace, so planning your route helps you make the most of your days.Travel between places can take longer than expected, especially with ferries, so it helps to leave some wiggle room in your schedule.

No matter how long you stay, here’s our favorite Greece itineraries. If you’d rather not worry about the logistics, Rough Guides’ local experts can arrange accommodations, ferries, and experiences so you can focus on exploring Greece at your own pace.
 

Best Greece itinerary at a glance

How much you see depends on how long you stay. A week is enough for the main highlights. With 10 or 14 days, you can slow down, visit more islands, and see a different side of Greece beyond the most famous stops.

• 7 days in Greece itinerary: A classic one-week route pairs Athens with one island, usually Santorini. Spend a few days seeing the Acropolis, museums, and neighborhood tavernas, then fly to the Cyclades for coastal views and some time to relax. This works well if it’s your first visit or you’re short on time.
• 10 days in Greece itinerary: With 10 days, you can add a second island without rushing. Some travelers combine Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos for a mix of sightseeing and beach time. Others head to Crete instead for history, hiking, and a slower pace. You’ll also have time for a day trip—maybe Delphi or a coastal temple.
• 14 days in Greece itinerary: Two weeks gives you room to explore more of the mainland and less-touristed islands. You might start in Athens, visit places like Meteora or the Peloponnese, then move through a few Cycladic islands like Naxos or Paros. It’s a good amount of time to see both well-known highlights and quieter, local places.
   

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7 days in Greece itinerary

How to plan a trip to Greece that's only a week long? This week-long  itinerary is spent in Northern Greece. You’ll get to have time in the city and the stillness of mountains. You start in Thessaloniki with its Byzantine landmarks and markets, then head to Meteora’s monasteries, pass through the lakeside calm of Ioannina, and explore the stone villages of Zagori. It’s a side of Greece that feels lived-in rather than tourist-trodden.

Day 1: Arrival in Thessaloniki

This 7 day Greece itinerary starts in Thessaloniki, the country’s second city and one of the best places to visit in Greece.  Most hotels are around a 30-minute drive from the airport. Afternoon is a good time to wander the Upper Town, where Ottoman-era houses climb the hillside and terraces give views over the Thermaic Gulf. 

Later, the seaside promenade fills with people as the sun falls, strolling, chatting, stopping for coffee. The White Tower is right on the water; you can walk around it and see small exhibitions inside that explain the city’s history. Aristotelous Square is nearby and a good place to sit at a café

Insider tip: Accommodation in Ladadika or Ano Poli keeps you close to the main sights and in neighborhoods where the city actually feels alive.

Day 2: Thessaloniki

Food is the best way into Thessaloniki. Start your morning with breakfast from a neighborhood bakery. You’ll want to be on the look out for koulouri (chewy sesame rings) or bougatsa, a flaky pastry usually filled with custard or cheese.

Then head to the Modiano and Kapani markets in the city center. You’ll find here stalls of spices, olives, and vegetables form an intricate, fragrant maze. It’s loud, busy, and full of energy.

Afterward, grab a coffee at a rooftop café nearby. Many serve traditional Greek coffee brewed in a briki pot. IFor dinner, find a taverna serving meze-style dishes. Go for small plates like sardines, sea urchin salad, spiced sausages, and other small bites.
 

Day 3: Thessaloniki to Meteora

Travel time: About 3 hours drive total

Heading west toward Meteora, Vergina is a natural first stop.. The plains stretch out as you go, and about 90 minutes in, ttop in Vergina to visit the Royal Tombs of Aigai. The museum is built underground to preserve the burial mounds, and the lighting inside keeps the focus on what’s left from Macedonia’s ancient capital.

The tomb of Philip II (father of Alexander the Great) is the main draw. You’ll see his gold larnax (a funerary chest), ceremonial weapons, and wreaths made from real gold leaves. The frescoes are still vivid in places, and the level of detail in the bronze and ivory work shows just how advanced this kingdom was.

After your visit, it’s another 90-minute drive to Meteora.

Insider tip: Aim to arrive before dark so you have time to settle in and catch a first glimpse of the cliffs from town.

Day 4: Meteora’s monastaries

Start the morning by visiting a few of Meteora’s active monasteries. There are six you can visit, but most people choose two or three in one day. Great Meteoron is the largest and has a small museum with manuscripts, tools, and religious artifacts. Varlaam is known for its vivid frescoes and panoramic views from the terrace. Each monastery requires a short uphill walk—some with quite a few stone steps—so wear decent shoes and bring water.

If you finish early, you can drive or walk to quieter viewpoints or stop by some of the smaller, inactive monasteries or hermit caves near the cliffs. These don’t draw big crowds but still give a sense of the scale and isolation of monastic life here. Later, spend some time in Kastraki or Kalambaka. Both towns sit at the base of the cliffs and are easy to explore on foot, with cafés, bakeries, and small tavernas tucked along side streets.

Insider tip: Try to arrive at the first monastery right when it opens.
 

Day 5: Hike in Meteora

Spend day 5 of this 7 day Greece itinerary on one of Meteora’s marked hiking trails. A good route starts near Doupiani Rock, where the path leads through patches of forest and open meadows, with constant views of the cliffs and monasteries above. The trail passes by the Monastery of Ypapanti, built into the rock face, and the ruins of St. Dimitrios. This is an older site where you can still see the outlines of cells and gathering spaces.

You can follow the trail all the way up to Great Meteoron or Varlaam, taking in different angles of the rock pillars as you go. Some paths are steep or uneven, but most are manageable with sturdy shoes. Along the way, look for carved footholds in the rock and old rope winch systems monks once used to haul supplies.

Insider tip: The pale rock reflects a lot of sunlight. Sunglasses with polarized lenses help cut the glare.

Day 6: Meteora to Ioannina

Travel time: About 2.5 hours

Leave Meteora in the morning and follow the road west through the Pindus Mountains. It’s a scenic drive with tight curves, forested slopes, and the occasional mountain village along the way. Eventually, the descent opens to Lake Pamvotida.

The old town is built around the castle, with narrow alleys and Ottoman-era buildings still in place. Inside the castle walls, you’ll find the Fethiye Mosque and the Municipal Museum. Just outside, you can see the ruins of Veli Pasha’s mosque and the House of Matei Hussein, now surrounded by quiet squares and shaded courtyards. Ioannina also has a long Jewish history, which you’ll notice in the old quarter and near the arcaded Stoa Louli.

In the afternoon, take the short ferry across Lake Pamvotida to visit the small island. There’s a monastery here that now holds the Ali Pasha Museum, marking the site of his death in 1822.

Insider tip: Be sure to try the baklava near the castle.

Day 7: Ioannina and Zagori Villages

Spend the morningo of day 7 of this Greece itinerary in Ioannina if you didn’t get to everything the day before. Some of the shops around the lake still sell traditional silverwork, a craft the city is known for.

Late morning, drive into the Zagori region. The 46 Zagori villages are spread out across the mountains, with stone houses, cobbled paths, and steep gorges in between.

You’ll probably only have time to visit a few today, but Kipoi, Aristi, and the twin villages of Megalo and Mikro Papigo are all accessible from Ioannina. You’ll pass old arched stone bridges, forested trails, and mountain streams along the way.

Insider tip: In Mikro Papigo, look for handmade wool textiles in the village shops. Many are still made using local materials and patterns passed down through families.

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10 days in Greece itinerary

This 10-day Greece itinerary takes you from Athens’ ancient ruins to Hydra’s quiet harbor and the hilltop towns of the Peloponnese. You’ll explore major landmarks like the Acropolis but also have time to slow down over coffee in a quiet square or walking through old neighborhoods.

Day 1: Arrival in Athens

Once you check into your hotel in Athens, take it easy and stay local. In the evening, walk to Plaka, the historic neighborhood just below the Acropolis. Its pedestrian lanes are lined with neoclassical buildings, and many of the tavernas have been run by the same families for decades.

Moussaka, souvlaki, and grilled vegetables are common staples, and outdoor seating gives you a great introduction to Greece. Lights strung between balconies keep the streets bright after dark, and the pace is relaxed.

Insider’s tip: Most Athenians eat late. If you want to avoid a touristy crowd, go for dinner after 9 PM.

Day 2: The Acropolis

Head to the Acropolis early to beat the heat and the crowds. Walk up the south slope and take your time through the main landmarks: the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion, and the Odeon of Herodes Atticus. From the top, you get wide views over the whole city.

Afterward, visit the nearby Acropolis Museum. The layout mirrors the hill itself, and the top floor is aligned with the Parthenon outside. You’ll walk over glass floors showing active excavations and see original statues that once stood on the hill.

Insider’s tip: The museum café has a terrace with the same view you’d get from nearby rooftop restaurants, but the prices are much lower.

Day 3: Ancient Agora to modern Athens

Start your third day of this Greece itieneary at the Ancient Agora, just below the Acropolis,  and  where democracy began.

The Temple of Hephaestus is one of the best-preserved in Athens, and the Stoa of Attalos now houses artifacts from the site: ceramics, tools, and coins that show daily life in the early city.

From there, walk toward Monastiraki. The flea market is always busy, with everything from antique books to vinyl records. If you need a break, the National Gardens are nearby, with shaded walkways and the occasional Roman column or broken statue hidden among the plants. End your day in Psiri, where street art covers old warehouses and side streets lead to bars, bakeries, and ouzeri serving snacks with tsipouro.

Insider's tip: Use the north entrance near Monastiraki Metro to skip the main queues.

Day 4: Journey to Hydra

Travel time: 2 hours

On day four of this Greece itinerary, catch a morning ferry from Piraeus to Hydra. High-speed catamarans take around 90 minutes, while slower boats take closer to 2 hours. Ferries run regularly, but it’s best to book tickets in advance.

Once you arrive, the difference is immediate: there are no cars, just donkeys, handcarts, and boats. The harbor is shaped like a horseshoe, with stone mansions and old naval buildings rising up the hillside. Spend the afternoon exploring on foot. Walk inland to find narrow alleys, where churches, artist studios, and small museums are tucked between residential homes.

Insider’s tip: Donkey porters charge per bag, so pack light. Most hotels are within a 10-minute walk, but it’s uphill.
 

Day 5: Hydra's beaches

In the morning, visit the Historical Archives Museum near the harbor to see old ship models, flags, and documents from the Greek War of Independence. Then check out a few of Hydra’s small contemporary galleries. Many artists live and work here year-round.

Afterward, take the coastal walking path west toward Kamini village. It’s an easy 20-minute walk past cafés, small docks, and swimming spots. Kamini has tavernas right by the water where you can stop for lunch or coffee. Keep going another 15 minutes to Vlychos Beach, which has sunbeds, a taverna, and kayak rentals.

Insider’s tip: For more remote beaches, grab a water taxi to Bisti or Agios Nikolaos. These are rocky coves with clear water, and fewer people.

Day 6: Hydra's monastery

Start day six of this Greece itinerary early on the trail to Mandraki Beach. The walk takes about 90 minutes each way and follows the coastline past old windmills, tiny chapels, and forested stretches of pine and wild herbs. Mandraki is quieter than other beaches, with pebbles underfoot and calm water for swimming or snorkeling. You can bring snacks for a picnic or walk back to town for lunch.

n the afternoon, hike up to Profitis Ilias Monastery. The climb reaches around 1,640 ft (500 m), and as you ascend the path, the views open across the Saronic Gulf. Inside, monks maintain small gardens, and the quiet of the place feels different from the town below.

If you have energy left in the evening, take a short boat trip around the north coast of the island. These small cruises leave from the harbor and follow the shoreline past sea caves and remote chapels carved into the rock.

Insider’s tip: The monks at the monastery sometimes sell small jars of honey and dried herbs they grow themselves.

Day 7: Mycenae and Nafplio

Travel time: 3 hours total

On day 7 of this Greece itinerary, catch a morning ferry from Hydra to Piraeus, then continue by rental car or private transfer into the Peloponnese. It’s worth a quick stop at the Corinth Canal (just a few minutes from the highway) to see the narrow channel cut through the rock in the 1800s. From there, it’s about a 90-minute drive to the ruins of Mycenae.

At the archaeological site, start at the Lion Gate and walk uphill through the remains of the citadel. The layout is still visible, with house foundations, burial shafts, and views across the plain. A short walk away, t The Treasury of Atreus shows the engineering behind massive beehive tombs. The museum on-site shows original items like gold masks, ceramics, and tools from the graves.

In the afternoon, continue to Nafplio. Once the first capital of modern Greece, it’s now a walkable coastal town with narrow lanes and a scenic harbor.

Insider's tip:  Syntagma Square is the main gathering place, surrounded by neoclassical buildings and cafés.

Day 8: Epidaurus and the Palamidi Fortress

In the morning of day 8, drive out to Epidaurus (about 45 minutes) to see the ancient theatre. The acoustics are remarkable: a coin dropped center stage can be heard from the back row 55 rows up.

The nearby sanctuary ruins are worth visiting. You’ll find here the remains of temples, baths, and the round tholos building, which had an underground labyrinth used in healing rituals.

After visiting the site, stop in one of the nearby villages for lunch. Many tavernas in Ligourio are known for their grilled meats and simple salads. Head back to Nafplio in the afternoon.

After a lunch in a village tavern, return to Nafplio for a moment by the sea or some browsing. Later, climb Palamidi Fortress. Locals say it’s 857 steps, though signs claim 999. Walking through the walls, the views expand over the Argolic Gulf.

Insider’s tip: If you want the views without the hike, drive to the rear entrance. You’ll skip the stairs but still get the best lookout points.
 

Day 9: Nafplio

Start day nine of this Greece itinerary with a short boat ride to Bourtzi Castle. The small Venetian fortress sits on an island just offshore and takes about 10 minutes to reach.

You can walk the perimeter and get a different view of the town and the Palamidi Fortress above. Back on land, spend some time walking through Nafplio’s quieter streets. Several neoclassical mansions now house small shops selling handmade jewelry, ceramics, and woven textiles.

Later, walk to Arvanitia Beach, just below the fortress walls. The water is clear and shallow, and it’s close enough to town to pop back for lunch.

In the afternoon, visit a winery near Nemea. The region is known for Agiorgitiko, a dark red wine grown in some of Greece’s oldest vineyards. Many wineries are family-run and do tastings on-site.

Insider’s tip: If you want more space or water sports, head to Karathona Beach, a 10-minute drive or 45-minute walk along the coast.

Day 10: Departure

Travel time: About 2.5 hours to Athens Airport

The drive to Athens International Airport takes about 2 hours on the main highway, but it’s smart to leave a bit earlier. Be sure to add atleast 30 minutes for traffic and check-in. Your hotel can help book a taxi or arrange a private transfer.

Before heading out, take your time with breakfast by the water. Nafplio’s harbor cafés open early and are a good place to watch fishing boats come in. If you have a little extra time, explore the streets behind the main square, where small workshops still make komboskini (prayer beads), and olive oil soap. 

Insider's tip: The komboskini shop near Agios Spyridon church can make custom worry beads while you wait.

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14 days in Greece itinerary

This two weeks in Greece itinerary is based in the Cyclades, and you’ll move between islands at a steady pace. You will see Santorini’s caldera, Mykonos’ streets, Paros’ villages, and Syros’ neoclassical buildings. Ferries run several times a day between islands, and local buses and taxis are usually reliable for shorter distances.

Day 1: Athens

Once you land in Athens, head into the city and check into your hotel near Plaka. A taxi from the airport takes about 40 minutes, while the metro takes just under an hour, including a short walk. In the evening, explore Plaka on foot. The pedestrian lanes are lined with neoclassical buildings and small tavernas, many of them run by the same families for decades.

Street lighting is good and sidewalks are mostly even. The Acropolis looms above, lit at night. You can stop for coffee at one of the small cafes and watch the area settle as the sun sets.

Day 2: Ancient Athens

Start early and head to the Acropolis when it opens at 8 a.m. The main sites (the Parthenon, Erechtheion, and Propylaea) are spread out across the top of the hill.

From the top, walk downhill to the Acropolis Museum, about a 10-minute walk. The layout mirrors the hill itself, and you’ll see original sculptures and friezes that were once on the buildings you just visited. The museum café also has one of the best views in the city.

In the afternoon, walk to the Ancient Agora (about 15 minutes from the museum) and explore the Temple of Hephaestus and the Stoa of Attalos. Expect to spend one to two hours here.

Insider’s tip: Buy the multi-site ticket at the Ancient Agora. It covers most major ruins in Athens and usually has shorter lines than the main Acropolis gate.
 

Day 3: Athens to Ermoupoli, Syros

On day three of this Greece itinerary, you can  your way to Piraeus for the ferry to Syros. Taxis from central Athens take about 35 minutes.

Once you arrive in Ermoupoli, drop your bags and head out to get a feel for the town. Asteria Beach is about a 20-minute walk from the center. It’s not a long beach, but there’s space to swim, sunbathe, or just sit along the concrete platforms and watch the water. In the evening, explore the streets around Miaoulis Square.

Streets here are lined with neoclassical mansions and arcaded buildings reflecting Venetian influence. You’re sure to find that the the town moves at a calm pace compared with Athens.

Day 4: Ermoupolis

Start day 4 of this Greece itinerary at the Apollon Theatre, about a five-minute walk from the main square. A guided tour is worth it here. It’s small but well-preserved, and the tour usually lasts about 30 to 45 minutes.

From there, walk to Vaporia, the seaside neighborhood once home to wealthy shipowners. The streets slope gently down to the sea, lined with old mansions and balconies overlooking the water.

If you keep walking uphill, you’ll reach the medieval Catholic quarter perched on a hilltop. Streets are mostly cobbled and steep, but the views of rooftops and the sea beyond make the climb worthwhile. Spend the afternoon exploring boutique shops, galleries, or small cafes along the way. The day involves roughly two to three miles of walking, weaving between historic buildings and quiet lanes.

Insider’s tip: Visit the Apollon Theatre after 2 PM to avoid tour groups.
 

Day 5: Syros beaches

For day 5, rent a car in the morning (many agencies are located near Miaoulis Square) and drive along the island’s southern coast. Your first stop is Galissas Beach, about a 15-minute drive away. It’s one of the larger beaches on the island, with soft sand and shallow water. A few minutes further, Delfini Beach is smaller and usually less crowded, with calm water for swimming.

Stop for lunch at a beachside taverna, trying fresh fish and Greek mezzes while the waves lap nearby. In the afternoon, continue along the coast to Kini and Finikas, pausing at small coves to stretch or swim. End the day at Dellagratsia and take a short drive to a nearby winery to taste Syros varietals and learn how vines grow in rocky, dry soil. Return to Ermoupolis before sunset to enjoy an evening in town.

Insider's tip: Bring water and snacks. Some beaches have few facilities and tavernas can be several miles apart.

Day 6: Northern Syros

After a few days exploring Ermoupolis and the southern coast, say 6 of this Greece itinerary takes you to the northern side of Syros, a quieter part of the island.

You can follow the coastal trail to Grammata Bay, passing ancient inscriptions carved into the rocks by Roman and Byzantine sailors seeking shelter from Aegean storms. Seeing these two-thousand-year-old messages gives a sense of how this coastline has been a lifeline for travelers for centuries.

Nearby, the Grey Cave is worth a quick detour before you reach a small beach to settle for a picnic. The northern coastline is rugged and mostly untouched, which is a nice contrast to the busier towns. By evening, you return to Ermoupolis for dinner.

Insider's tip: Wear shoes with a good grip for the rocky descent and bring plenty of water. The trail has no shade during the middle of the day.
 

Day 7: Syros to Naousa, Paros

In the morning, take the ferry across to Paros. The crossing takes about an hour on the fast ferry, or closer to two on standard routes. Once you arrive at Paroikia port, pick up your rental car and drive about 20 minutes north to Naousa, a village known for its walkable center and busy fishing harbor.

After checking in, grab lunch nearby and settle in. You can spend the afternoon by your hotel’s pool or walk to one of the small beaches close to town. As the sun starts to drop, head to the harbor. Fishing boats still operate from here, and the lanes behind the waterfront are filled with shops, cafés, and tavernas. It’s a good place to wander without a set plan.

Insider’s tip: If you're traveling in July or August, book your rental car ahead of time

Day 8: Naousa and Kolymbithres

Start day 8 of this Greece itinerary with a short drive (10–15 minutes) to Kolymbithres Beach. Large granite rock formations divide the coastline into small coves, and you’ll find shallow, clear water for swimming between the smooth boulders. There’s a taverna right on the beach where you can grab lunch without leaving the area.

Return to Naousa in the afternoon to explore the town more slowly. Local galleries, small boutiques, and workshops are tucked into the alleys just behind the harbor. The Venetian castle ruins along the harbor catch the last light of the afternoon sun. For dinner, try one of the harborside restaurants.

Insider's tip: Arrive before 10am if you want space on the sandy patches between rocks. By midday, the beach fills with visitors.
 

Day 9: Paros villages

On day 9 of this Greece itinerary, you’ll head inland to Lefkes, one of Paros’ mountain villages. The streets are paved with marble and mostly pedestrian-only, winding past whitewashed homes and small churches. Stop for coffee or breakfast before starting the Byzantine Road hike to Marpissa. The trail is about 2 miles (3 km) and mostly downhill, passing olive groves and stone terraces along the way.

In Marpissa, grab lunch at a small taverna before continuing on to nearby Prodromos. This quiet village has narrow arched alleys and feels less touched by tourism. You’ll end up seeing three very different faces of Paros all in one day, each within a short drive of one another.

Insider's tip: Start the Byzantine Road hike from Lefkes in the morning. Most of the path is downhill and having the sun behind you makes the walk easier.

Day 10: Paros and Antiparos

For day 10, spend the morning in Paroikia, the island’s capital. The town has a few streets that twist down toward the sea, with cafés and small shops scattered along the way. Stop at the Church of Panagia Ekatontapiliani, a 4th-century Byzantine church with layered stonework and a quiet, cool interior. You only need about 30–45 minutes here unless you want to explore the museum as well.

From the port, take the short ferry (about 10 minutes) to Antiparos. Head first to the island’s cave, which descends into several chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. After exploring, the nearby sandy beaches are a great spot for a swim. By evening, you can return to Naoussa, the harbor quiet as the day winds down.

Insider's tip: The cave stays cool year-round. 
 

Day 11: Delos and Mykonos day cruise

On day 11 of this two week Greece itinerary, take a full-day cruise from Paros to visit two of the Cyclades’ most well-known islands.

First stop is Delos, a small, uninhabited island that was once a major religious and trading center in ancient Greece. You can walk through the ruins, starting with the Temple of Apollo and nearby Sanctuary of Artemis.The ancient theater’s steps give you a sense of how people gathered here for ceremonies and performances. Each structure reflects how central Delos once was to the Cyclades.

By late morning, the boat moves on to Mykonos. The contrast is immediate. Little Venice lines the water with buildings leaning over the sea. Windmills perch above Mykonos Town, overlooking narrow streets filled with boutiques and galleries. The energy is different here (busier, more cosmopolitan) but it’s also easy to find quieter corners as you wander before the ferry takes you back to Paros.

Insider’s tip: There’s almost no shade on Delos. Bring a hat and lots of sunscreen.

Day 12: Paros to Oia, Santorini

Travel time: About 2 to 3 hours ferry

On day 12, board the ferry for Santorini, crossing the Aegean while the islands shrink behind you. At Athinios port, you pick up your rental car. The drive to Oia winds along the caldera rim, offering the first real view of the cliffs and the sea below.

The village is perched on volcanic rock formed after a massive eruption around 1600 BC. The geography here explains the dramatic scenery. The steep cliffs and sunken caldera make the villages appear to cling to the edge.

After checking in and lunch, you can explore Oia on foot. Marble-paved streets wind between blue-domed churches and cave houses. Galleries and boutique shops line the lanes, each doorway inviting a closer look. By evening, you find a place to watch the sun slip toward the horizon.
 

Day 13: Santorini

Start day 13 of this Greece itinerary at Akrotiri, a prehistoric settlement preserved under volcanic ash. The paths are covered, protecting the multi-story buildings and frescoes that show daily life in Minoan society. Walking through, you can see how the community was structured and how advanced it was.

From there, drive to Perivolos, Santorini’s longest black sand beach. The sand feels different underfoot, the water cool enough for a swim, and the beachfront tavernas provide a casual place for lunch.

Then head to Megalochori, a village that hasn’t drawn heavy tourism. Bell towers mark the streets, and cave houses line quiet lanes. A drive or short climb up Profitis Ilias offers broad views of the island and the sea. You finish the day at a Pyrgos winery tasting local wines grown in volcanic soil, from Assyrtiko to Nykteri and Vinsanto.

Insider's tip: Visit the winery in the late afternoon. The light softens, the temperature drops, and cruise ship groups are usually gone by then.

Day 14: Caldera hike

The last day of this Greece itienrary starts early with the caldera hike from Oia to Fira, a 6-mile (10 km) trail along the cliff tops.

The path passes Firostefani and Imerovigli, with paved sections that make walking easier. The route shows changing views of the caldera, the Aegean Sea, and villages clinging to the cliffs. You’ll notice different perspectives with every turn.

By lunchtime, you reach Fira for a meal before heading out on a boat to the volcano islands. On Nea Kameni, climb the active crater and follow it with a swim in the warm sulfur springs at Palia Kameni. Back in Oia, the evening is yours for a farewell dinner.

Insider's tip: Begin the hike by 8am to avoid heat and crowds. The trail is quieter, and you’ll reach Fira in time for lunch with the afternoon free for other plans.
 

Personalize your Greece travel itinerary

Greece can look different depending on who you are. Maybe you’re drawn to ancient ruins, or maybe quiet beaches are what you’re after. Many travelers want both. Rough Guides’ local experts know the country inside out and can build an itinerary that fits your pace and interests.

We handle the details for you - hotels, ferry tickets, private guides, restaurant bookings - so you can focus on the trip itself. You’ll have 24/7 support, whether you’re weaving through Athens’ streets or waiting for a ferry to the islands.

Ready to plan your Greek adventure? Connect with our local experts and start shaping an itinerary that’s truly yours.
 

Best Greece itinerary for historical landmarks

This Greece itinerary takes you through Greece’s historic landmarks and island coastlines. You’ll start in Athens, move on to Mykonos and Santorini, and finish in Crete, seeing both the layers of history and the rhythms of life on each island.

• Days 1 to 3: Athens
  • Athens is where the ancient world feels immediate. Begin at the Acropolis and take in the Parthenon before heading to the New Acropolis Museum to see the sculptures and artifacts in context. One day is best spent in Delphi at the foot of Mount Parnassos.
• Days 4 to 6: Mykonos
  • Mykonos has narrow streets and a waterfront that’s easy to lose yourself in. A short trip to Delos leads past temples, the Avenue of Lions, and centuries-old mosaics. After exploring the archaeological sites, spend some time along the northern and southern beaches.
• Days 7 to 9: Santorini
  • Santorini’s landscape is defined by volcanic activity. Akrotiri’s preserved Bronze Age settlement shows how people adapted to the land, while Pyrgos retains a quieter village atmosphere. A boat ride takes you to the volcano and natural hot springs.
• Days 10 to 12: Heraklion, Crete
  • Crete begins with Knossos, where Minoan civilization is visible in the throne room and the frescoes. The harbor and Venetian fortress in Heraklion show how the island evolved over time. 
     

Best culinary Greece itinerary

This foodie Greece itinerary moves through Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, following the flavors of each place. You’ll walk markets, visit vineyards, join cooking sessions, and see how local methods shape the food and wine.

• Days 1 to 4: Athens
  • In Athens, start at Varvakios Market where the aisles are crowded with fresh seafood, olives, and sweet loukoumades. Vendors call out their daily catches, and you can grab a souvlaki as you navigate the market. A cooking class later shows you how dishes are prepared in the traditional way, and you get to work the ingredients yourself. A day in Nemea’s wine region takes you through rolling vineyards growing Agiorgitiko grapes.
• Days 5 to 7: Naxos
  • On Naxos, the food is tied to the villages and coastline. At the historic Agora, you taste graviera cheese and mezes, sampling from stalls that have been here for generations. A short drive takes you into the mountains to see olives pressed in the traditional way. Hiking Mt. Zas takes you up rocky paths with sparse vegetation, ending where the coastline spreads out below.
• Days 8 to 11: Santorini
  • Santorini’s volcanic soil shapes everything you see. Walking through vineyards, you learn the kouloura vine-training method and taste Assyrtiko and other local grapes. On a catamaran cruise, you swim at volcanic beaches and have a barbecue on deck, watching the coastline change with the sun. Farm visits reveal cherry tomatoes, fava beans, and capers growing in soil that is dark and uneven.
     

Best Crete itinerary

Crete changes as you move across it. Coastal villages, mountains, and archaeological sites are all within a few hours’ drive. This itinerary follows that rhythm, from Elounda to Chania, with stops in Heraklion and Rethymno.

• Days 1 to 3: Elounda
  • Start in Elounda along the waterfront, where small cafés line the quay. Take a boat to Spinalonga to explore the fortress and the traces of the leper colony. In the nearby Lassithi countryside, olive groves stretch along the roadsides. You can watch Koroneiki olives being harvested and taste Vilana wines with a few plates of mezedes.
• Days 4 & 5: Heraklion
  • Heraklion is compact enough to walk, with its fortress walls and fountains marking layers of history. You can follow the streets past buildings tied to El Greco and Nikos Kazantzakis before heading inland to the Cave of Zeus. Knossos Palace is nearby.
• Days 6 & 7: Rethymno
  • Rethymno has streets that curve around Venetian and Ottoman buildings. You can walk from Fortezza Castle down to the Rimondi Fountain, taking in details along the way. Food is part of moving through the city: thyme honey, olive oil, and other local ingredients can be tasted on a tour that ends with a phyllo workshop.
• Days 8 to 12: Chania
  • In Chania, mornings along the Venetian Harbor are calm before the streets fill with locals. Samaria Gorge takes a full day. The hike covers roughly 10 miles (16 km), with rock formations and narrow paths that require attention but let you move at your own pace. In the surrounding villages of Apokoronas, tsikoudia distilleries and rock churches can be visited in the afternoon. 
     

How many days do you need in Greece?

You’ll want to give yourself ten to fourteen days if you want to move at a comfortable pace. That’s enough time to spend a few days in Athens, explore the mainland, and still catch the ferry to an island or two.

One week works too, but only if you’re keeping it simple. A good week-long Greece itinerary might look like two days in Athens and five on a single island. Any more than that and you’re just packing and unpacking. Ferries take time, even short ones, and delays aren’t rare. If you’re thinking about visiting both the Cyclades and Crete, aim for at least twelve days. Travel between them can eat up the better part of a day.

What is the best time to visit Greece?

Late spring and early fall are the easiest times to travel, and for most are the best times to visit Greece.

May and June, or September and October, bring warm water, decent ferry schedules, and better prices than the peak summer months.

July and August can be hot, well into the 90s°F (30s°C), and island towns fill up quickly. You’ll find a livelier scene, but it’s harder to find quiet corners. April is hit or miss. You’ll get flowers in the countryside and Easter festivities, but some island hotels and restaurants might still be closed.

From November through March, many island services shut down altogether. Ferries are limited, but it’s still a good time to visit Athens and the mainland .
 

How do you get around Greece?

Traveling around Greece usually means combining ferries, buses, and sometimes short flights. On the mainland, KTEL buses are the main way to get between cities and archaeological sites like Delphi or Meteora. They run frequently and are easy on the budget.

Renting a car is useful if you want to explore smaller towns or mountain areas, especially in the Peloponnese or Crete. Just be aware that driving in Athens is stressful, and parking is limited.

Domestic flights between Athens and the larger islands can save you a travel day, but they cost more than ferries. For island-hopping, ferries are the main way to go.

In Athens, the metro is reliable and connects the airport with downtown. Most islands have local bus systems that cover major beaches and towns. For shorter distances, scooters or taxis usually do the trick.

How do I get between the Greek islands?

Ferries are the main connection between islands, but schedules depend on the season and weather. High-speed ferries are faster, but they tend to cost more and can feel rough if the sea is choppy. Regular ferries are slower but usually more comfortable for longer trips and better if you’re prone to seasickness. You can buy tickets directly from ferry operators or through comparison sites. In the busy months (June through September) routes between the most popular islands can fill up, so it’s smart to book ahead.

The Cyclades are well linked, which makes them easy to hop between, but getting to farther-flung islands like those in the Dodecanese may require a connection through Athens or a bigger port like Rhodes. The meltemi winds in August are strong and can cause cancellations, so leave a buffer if you’re catching a flight home.  Blue Star and SeaJets run most of the routes.

How do I avoid creating an itinerary that's too ambitious?

A lot of people try to pack in too much and end up spending most of their trip in transit. Greece looks small on a map, but the ferry logistics can take more time than you think. It's better to pick one region (like the Cyclades, Crete, or the Ionian islands) and stick to it. You can add Athens if it makes sense for your flight.

Try to spend at least three nights in each place. Anything less and you're basically just checking in and out of hotels.

Even short ferry rides can take half a day when you count travel to the port, waiting around, and getting settled again. Delays do happen, especially with weather, so it's smart to build in some buffer time. A few slow days in Santorini is going to feel way better than a rushed sunset and a 6 a.m. ferry out.

How much does a trip to Greece cost?

Compared to places like France or Italy, Greece is generally more affordable, but costs do jump in the summer. If you're traveling on a budget, you can get by on around €100 to €150. That means staying in guesthouses, eating at simple tavernas, and taking slower ferries.

Midrange travelers usually spend around  €200 to €240), which covers comfortable hotels and nice meals. If you're planning to splurge a bit, like on a cave hotel in Santorini or fresh seafood with a sea view, you're looking at €500 or more per day.

Athens is noticeably cheaper than the islands, especially when it comes to food and accommodation. Ferry tickets vary depending on the route and speed, and archaeological sites usually have reasonable entry fees. Some of them sell combo tickets that cover multiple places. 
 

Which Greek islands are best for first-time visitors?

Santorini and Mykonos are the most obvious starting points. They’re easy to get to, easy to get around, and have the kind of scenery people expect from Greece. Santorini has those cliffside views and white buildings, while Mykonos is more known for beaches and nightlife.

If you want something a little quieter but still convenient, Naxos is a great option. It has nice beaches, small villages, and some interesting ruins. Paros is another good choice, especially if you’re planning to visit other islands in the Cyclades.

Crete is quite a bit larger and has a bit of everything: beaches, archaeological sites, mountain hikes, and it's easy to get away from the crowds if you rent a car. Rhodes has a medieval old town and plenty of places to swim. Hydra is small and car-free, and you can get there from Athens in a couple of hours.

If it’s your first time, it’s usually best to pick islands that are easy to reach and have enough going on so you’re not bouncing between places that all feel the same.

Which islands are less touristy or crowded?

If you're looking for something quieter, try heading beyond the Cyclades. The Sporades islands (Skopelos, Alonissos, and Skiathos) have a more low-key feel, with pine forests and small towns. Symi, near Rhodes, is known for its colorful harbor and doesn’t get too busy overnight since most people just come for the day.

Folegandros is good if you want to hike and wander through cliffside villages without the crowds. Amorgos draws people who are more interested in nature and local life than beach bars. Milos is getting more attention these days for its unique beaches, but it still feels pretty relaxed, especially away from the main port.

The Ionian islands (Kefalonia, Lefkada, and Ithaca) are popular with Greek and Italian travelers. The scenery and architecture are quite different from the Cyclades, so it gives you a different view of Greece.

Is Thessaloniki worth adding to my itinerary?

It can be, depending on what you're looking for. Thessaloniki is Greece’s second-largest city and feels different from Athens. It has a mix of Roman ruins, Byzantine churches, and old Ottoman buildings, but also feels like a regular working city where people are going about their day.

The food scene is great. You’ll definitely want to try a bougatsa pastry with coffee, have seafood by the water, or grab mezze and ouzo at a tsipouradiko. You’ll also find fewer tourists here, and prices for food and lodging are often lower than in the islands.

Thessaloniki is also in a good spot for day trips. Meteora, Mount Olympus, and Halkidiki beaches are all doable. If you're short on time, it’s probably better to skip it, since you’d want at least three days to really explore. But for a second trip or if you're more interested in cities than beaches, it's definitely worth considering.