Ten to 16 days is a great length for a Greece trip that includes stops in Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos, and Crete’s Chania. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Heraklion. See more ideas for Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos, and Chania itineraries below.
## Unveiling the Allure of Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos & Crete: Crafting Your Perfect Greek Escape
Most travelers find that a span of 10 to 16 days offers a delightful introduction to the wonders of Athens, the iconic beauty of Santorini, the vibrant energy of Mykonos, the authentic charm of Tinos, and the diverse landscapes of Crete when combining these destinations into one unforgettable trip. This timeframe allows for a taste of each location, leaving you with cherished memories and a desire to return.
However, for those fortunate enough to have 17 days or more at their disposal, the possibilities expand even further. Many travelers opt to enrich their journey by incorporating additional captivating stops, delving deeper into the cultural and natural treasures that Greece has to offer.
One of the most popular choices for extending a Greek itinerary is a visit to Heraklion. Heraklion, a bustling port city and the capital of Crete, serves as a gateway to the island’s rich history, archaeological wonders, and stunning beaches. It provides a fantastic complement to the experiences in Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and Tinos.
## Embark on a Tailored Adventure: Unveiling Recommended Itineraries for Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos & Crete
Are you ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Greece? Let’s explore a curated selection of itineraries designed to help you make the most of your time in this captivating corner of the world. Each itinerary offers a unique blend of cultural exploration, relaxation, and breathtaking scenery, ensuring an unforgettable journey.
### A 10-Day Odyssey: Athens, Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete
Imagine arriving in Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, ready to embark on an adventure. Your first day is dedicated to settling in and soaking up the atmosphere of this historic city.
Day two unfolds with a tantalizing Athens Food Tour, where you’ll sample an array of delectable street food, uncovering the city’s culinary secrets and vibrant flavors. From savory souvlaki to sweet loukoumades, your taste buds will be in for a treat.
On day three, you’ll board a ferry to the serene island of Tinos, a hidden gem in the Cyclades. Spend the day exploring its picturesque villages, admiring its traditional architecture, and immersing yourself in its unique charm.
Day four is devoted to following the famed Marble Route of Tinos, a journey that reveals the island’s rich artistic heritage and the intricate craftsmanship of its marble sculptors. Discover workshops where artisans continue to create stunning works of art using this precious material.
Day five brings you to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos. After settling in, you’ll experience the island’s authentic side with a visit to a local farm, followed by a delightful Mykonian dinner featuring fresh, local ingredients.
On day six, you’ll take a ferry to the iconic island of Santorini, renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and volcanic landscapes. Spend the afternoon exploring its charming villages, such as Oia and Fira, and marveling at the Caldera views.
Day seven offers an unforgettable Santorini Catamaran Cruise. Sail around the volcanic caldera, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea, and bask in the sun’s warmth.
Day eight allows for a leisurely morning in Santorini before transferring to Chania, a historic city on the island of Crete. Explore Chania’s Venetian harbor, wander through its narrow streets, and savor the city’s unique blend of cultures.
Day nine takes you on an exploration of the picturesque Villages of Apokoronas, located in the Cretan countryside. Discover traditional villages, olive groves, and stunning landscapes, immersing yourself in the authentic Cretan way of life.
Finally, on day ten, you’ll return to Athens for your departure, carrying with you cherished memories of your Greek island adventure.
This laid-back itinerary offers a perfect balance of sightseeing, cultural immersion, and relaxation, allowing you to experience the best of Athens and the Cyclades islands. You’ll see the iconic landmarks, savor delicious cuisine, and discover hidden gems along the way.
### An 11-Day Sojourn: Athens, Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete
This extended itinerary builds upon the 10-day adventure, offering a slightly more relaxed pace and additional opportunities for exploration. Like the previous itinerary, you begin your journey in Athens, experiencing the vibrant energy of the city and the culinary delights of its street food scene.
Days three and four are dedicated to discovering the hidden gem of Tinos, exploring its charming villages and following the Marble Route to uncover its rich artistic heritage.
Day five brings you to Mykonos, where you’ll have ample time to explore the island’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and bask on its beautiful beaches.
On day six, you’ll enjoy an authentic Mykonian experience with a visit to a local farm and a traditional dinner, savoring the flavors of the island.
Days seven and eight are spent on the iconic island of Santorini, exploring its stunning landscapes, taking a catamaran cruise around the volcanic caldera, and witnessing its world-renowned sunsets.
Days nine and ten bring you to Chania, Crete, where you’ll wander through the enchanting streets of the old town and explore the historic Villages of Apokoronas.
Finally, on day eleven, you’ll return to Athens for your departure, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Greek island escape.
This 11-day trip to Athens and the nearby islands offers a relaxing escape filled with sun, surf, and culture. Explore Athens at your own pace and try local delicacies on a street food tour. Then, set sail for the hidden gem of Tinos, where you’ll learn about its religious and artisan history. Bask on the beaches of Mykonos and cruise around Santorini’s volcanic caldera lagoon. Continue to Crete, where you’ll roam the enchanting streets of old Chania and visit historic villages before you head home.
### A 12-Day Exploration: Athens, Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete
This itinerary further extends your Greek adventure, adding an extra day to soak up the beauty and culture of the region.
Like the previous itineraries, your journey begins in Athens, where you’ll explore the city’s ancient wonders and savor its culinary delights.
Days three and four are dedicated to discovering the hidden gem of Tinos, immersing yourself in its rich artistic and religious heritage.
Days five and six are spent on the glamorous island of Mykonos, exploring its cosmopolitan atmosphere, unwinding on its pristine beaches, and indulging in its culinary offerings.
Days seven and eight bring you to the iconic island of Santorini, where you’ll explore its stunning landscapes, take a catamaran cruise around the volcanic caldera, and witness its breathtaking sunsets.
Days nine and ten are spent in Chania, Crete, exploring the city’s Venetian harbor, wandering through its narrow streets, and discovering the traditional Villages of Apokoronas.
On day eleven, you’ll return to Athens, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunset at Cape Sounion, a historic site with stunning coastal views.
Finally, on day twelve, you’ll depart from Athens, carrying with you cherished memories of your Greek island adventure.
Start your 12-day trip in Athens, where you’ll explore at your own pace and try some of the capital’s best street food. Then, begin your island-hopping adventure with a stop in Tinos, a pilgrimage site and home to a centuries-old marble craft. Next, stroll through the pretty streets of Mykonos, unwind on the beach, and indulge in some of the island’s excellent culinary offerings. Set sail for Santorini, where you’ll cruise around its volcanic caldera before moving to Crete’s charming historic towns and villages.
### A 13-Day Immersive Experience: Athens, Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete
This 13-day itinerary allows for an even deeper dive into the beauty and culture of Greece, providing ample time for relaxation and exploration.
Your journey begins in Athens, where you’ll discover the city’s ancient wonders and savor its culinary delights.
Days three and four are dedicated to uncovering the hidden gem of Tinos, immersing yourself in its artistic and religious heritage.
Days five and six are spent on the vibrant island of Mykonos, exploring its cosmopolitan atmosphere, relaxing on its beautiful beaches, and indulging in its culinary offerings.
Days seven and eight bring you to the iconic island of Santorini, where you’ll explore its stunning landscapes, take a catamaran cruise around the volcanic caldera, and witness its breathtaking sunsets.
Days nine, ten, and eleven are spent on the island of Crete, where you’ll explore the historic city of Chania, take a boat trip to the stunning Gramvousa and Balos Beaches, and discover the traditional Villages of Apokoronas.
On day twelve, you’ll return to Athens, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunset at Cape Sounion.
Finally, on day thirteen, you’ll depart from Athens, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Greek island adventure.
Start in Athens on this relaxed itinerary to Greece, where you’ll see the sights at your own pace before checking out Tinos, the often-overlooked gem with a rich religious history. Continue to neighboring Mykonos to indulge in its glamorous restaurant scene and unwind on the beach. Dig into an authentic farm-to-table meal before moving on to the volcanic island of Santorini. Next, you’ll sail to Crete for its stunning lagoons and traditional villages before returning to Athens for a sunset sendoff.
### A Two-Week Paradise Found: Athens, Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete
This two-week itinerary offers a more leisurely pace, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of each destination.
Your adventure begins in Athens, where you’ll explore the city’s ancient landmarks and savor its culinary delights.
On day three, you’ll embark on a day trip to the Nemea wine region, discovering the area’s rich winemaking traditions and sampling its delicious wines.
Days four and five are dedicated to exploring the hidden gem of Tinos, immersing yourself in its artistic and religious heritage.
Days six and seven are spent on the vibrant island of Mykonos, exploring its cosmopolitan atmosphere, relaxing on its beautiful beaches, and indulging in its culinary offerings. You’ll also have the option to participate in a traditional cooking class, learning the secrets of Mykonian cuisine.
Days eight and nine bring you to the iconic island of Santorini, where you’ll explore its stunning landscapes, take a catamaran cruise around the volcanic caldera, and witness its breathtaking sunsets.
Days ten, eleven, and twelve are spent on the island of Crete, where you’ll explore the historic city of Chania, take a boat trip to the stunning Gramvousa and Balos Beaches, and discover the traditional Villages of Apokoronas.
On day thirteen, you’ll return to Athens, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunset at Cape Sounion.
Finally, on day fourteen, you’ll depart from Athens, carrying with you cherished memories of your Greek island escape.
Find your piece of paradise with the two-week version of this laid-back itinerary. Start with street food and native wine varietals in Athens before heading to Tinos for a cultural tour. Glamorous Mykonos and Santorini are next before continuing to Crete, where turquoise lagoons and village tours ensure you’re thoroughly blissed out before you return to Athens.
### A 15-Day Cultural Immersion: Athens, Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete
This 15-day itinerary allows you to delve even deeper into the culture and traditions of Greece, providing ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Your journey commences in Athens, where you’ll explore the city’s historical sites and savor its culinary treasures.
On day three, you’ll embark on a day trip to the Nemea wine region, discovering the area’s rich winemaking heritage and sampling its exquisite wines.
Days four and five are dedicated to exploring the hidden gem of Tinos, immersing yourself in its artistic and religious traditions.
Days six and seven are spent on the vibrant island of Mykonos, exploring its cosmopolitan atmosphere, relaxing on its pristine beaches, and indulging in its culinary delights. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit a local farm and enjoy a traditional Mykonian dinner.
Days eight and nine bring you to the iconic island of Santorini, where you’ll explore its stunning landscapes, take a catamaran cruise around the volcanic caldera, and witness its breathtaking sunsets.
Days ten, eleven, twelve, and thirteen are spent on the island of Crete, where you’ll explore the historic city of Chania, take a boat trip to the stunning Gramvousa and Balos Beaches, visit the Botanical Park for a tour and tasting, and discover the traditional Villages of Apokoronas.
On day fourteen, you’ll return to Athens, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunset at Cape Sounion.
Finally, on day fifteen, you’ll depart from Athens, carrying with you cherished memories of your Greek island adventure.
Savor every moment of this relaxed cultural tour of Athens and the islands. Lasting just over two weeks, this itinerary leaves plenty of room for exploration as you roam the food markets of Athens, go wine tasting in the vineyards of Nemea, and learn about the centuries-old marble craft on the island of Tinos. You’ll visit Mykonos’s glamorous and traditional sides, cruise around Santorini’s volcanic caldera, and unwind on the beaches of Crete. End your trip back to Athens with a memorable sunset over the ruins.
### A 16-Day Grand Tour: Athens, Tinos, Mykonos, Santorini & Crete
This comprehensive 16-day itinerary offers the ultimate Greek experience, allowing you to fully explore the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture of Athens and the islands.
Your adventure begins in Athens, where you’ll explore the city’s ancient wonders and savor its culinary delights.
On day three, you’ll embark on a day trip to the Nemea wine region, discovering the area’s rich winemaking traditions and sampling its delicious wines.
Days four and five are dedicated to exploring the hidden gem of Tinos, immersing yourself in its artistic and religious heritage.
Days six and seven are spent on the vibrant island of Mykonos, exploring its cosmopolitan atmosphere, relaxing on its beautiful beaches, and indulging in its culinary offerings. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit a local farm and enjoy a traditional Mykonian dinner.
Days eight, nine, and ten bring you to the iconic island of Santorini, where you’ll explore its stunning landscapes, embark on a wine-tasting tour, take a catamaran cruise around the volcanic caldera, and witness its breathtaking sunsets.
Days eleven, twelve, thirteen, and fourteen are spent on the island of Crete, where you’ll explore the historic city of Chania, take a boat trip to the stunning Gramvousa and Balos Beaches, visit the Botanical Park for a tour and tasting, and discover the traditional Villages of Apokoronas.
On day fifteen, you’ll return to Athens, where you’ll have the opportunity to witness a spectacular sunset at Cape Sounion.
Finally, on day sixteen, you’ll depart from Athens, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your Greek island escape.
Take your time exploring Athens and the islands on this Greece tour, following a relaxed pace from the markets of Athens to the vineyards of Nemea. Go off the beaten path to the pilgrimage island of Tinos before sailing to Mykonos for some cosmopolitan charm. You’ll explore the picturesque streets of Santorini and cruise around its volcanic caldera before going to Crete. Get your fill of historic villages and luxurious beaches before wrapping up your trip back to the capital.
## Navigating the Aegean: A Guide to Traveling Between Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos & Chania
Planning your transportation between these iconic destinations is a crucial part of crafting a seamless Greek adventure. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to travel between Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Tinos, and Chania:
**Reaching the Enchanting Shores of Santorini**
The most convenient and time-saving way to reach Santorini, a jewel of the Aegean Sea, is by taking a flight from Athens. Numerous daily flights connect the two cities, making it a swift and efficient option. In addition to Athens, flights to Santorini are also available from various other locations in Europe and the UK, offering flexibility for international travelers.
**Discovering the Cosmopolitan Charm of Mykonos**
Mykonos, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, stunning beaches, and rich history, is a must-visit destination in Greece. Similar to Santorini, the easiest way to reach Mykonos is by taking a flight from Athens. Numerous flights operate daily, providing a convenient and comfortable travel option. However, Mykonos is not just a party island; it caters to diverse interests, from LGBTQ culture enthusiasts to history buffs seeking to explore its ancient roots.
**Unveiling the Authentic Beauty of Tinos**
The tranquil island of Tinos, a hidden gem within the Cyclades archipelago, offers a glimpse into authentic Greek island life. To reach Tinos from Athens, head to the bustling port of Piraeus, the main port serving Athens. From Piraeus, you can take a ferry to Tinos, with journey times as short as two hours, depending on the ferry type. This makes Tinos easily accessible for a day trip or a longer stay.
**Journeying to the Historic City of Chania**
Chania, the second largest city on Crete and the island’s former capital, is a captivating destination steeped in history and culture. To reach Chania, you can take a flight from Athens to Chania International Airport (CHQ), or travel by ferry from Piraeus port. The ferry offers a scenic overnight journey, while flying is much faster. Chania boasts a unique blend of influences, shaped by its past under Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman rule. The city’s architecture, cuisine, and cultural traditions reflect this diverse heritage, making it a fascinating place to explore.
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