Nine to 12 days is the most popular trip length for Greece travelers interested in visiting Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, especially when also including Mykonos. If you’re only headed to Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in 8 to 10 days. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as 5 to 7 days. For the best itineraries including Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, keep reading below.
## Exploring the Greek Isles: Itineraries for Athens, Naxos, Santorini, and Beyond
Planning a trip to Greece and wondering how much time to dedicate to each destination? The allure of the Aegean Sea and the historical treasures of the mainland beckon, but crafting the perfect itinerary requires careful consideration. This guide offers insights into the ideal duration for exploring the iconic islands of Naxos and Santorini, the historical city of Athens, and even venturing further afield to destinations like Mykonos, Syros, and Tinos.
- For many travelers seeking a taste of the quintessential Greek experience, an itinerary of 8 to 10 days proves sufficient to explore the highlights of Athens, Naxos, and Santorini combined. This timeframe allows for a balanced introduction to each location, offering opportunities for sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural immersion.
- The inclusion of Mykonos, known for its vibrant nightlife and cosmopolitan atmosphere, typically extends the total trip duration to between 9 and 12 days. This additional time provides a chance to experience the unique charm of Mykonos without sacrificing the exploration of Athens, Naxos, and Santorini.
- A shorter visit to Athens, Naxos, and Santorini, spanning 5 to 7 days, is indeed possible. However, be prepared for a faster pace and a more condensed experience. This timeframe will likely feel rushed, potentially limiting the depth of your exploration and relaxation. You might find yourself constantly on the move, sacrificing leisurely moments for ticking off the main attractions.
- For those with a more generous travel window of 11 days or more, the possibilities expand significantly. This extended timeframe allows for the inclusion of another captivating destination, such as Syros, the administrative center of the Cyclades, or Tinos, renowned for its artistic heritage and religious significance. These lesser-known islands offer a unique perspective on Greek culture and provide a welcome contrast to the more popular tourist destinations.
Planning the perfect Greek adventure requires tailoring the itinerary to your individual preferences and available time.
Connect with a local expert who can assist in planning and organizing your personalized Greek getaway.
## Suggested Itineraries for Exploring Athens, Naxos, and Santorini
To assist in your trip planning, consider these recommended itineraries that focus on Athens, Naxos, and Santorini. Each itinerary offers a unique perspective and caters to varying interests and time constraints.
### Recommended 8-Day Itinerary: A Glimpse into History and Island Life
This eight-day itinerary provides a whirlwind tour of Athens and the Cyclades, perfect for first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive overview.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Athens: Settle into your accommodation and begin exploring the vibrant city center. | Athens |
| Day 2 | Guided Acropolis Visit: Immerse yourself in ancient history with a guided tour of the Acropolis, including the Parthenon and the Acropolis Museum. | Athens |
| Day 3 | Ferry to Naxos: Journey to Naxos, the largest of the Cyclades islands, and discover its charming towns and beautiful beaches. | Naxos |
| Day 4 | Historic Naxos Hike: Embark on a scenic hike through the island’s interior, exploring traditional villages and ancient ruins. | Naxos |
| Day 5 | Naxos to Santorini: Take a ferry to Santorini, the iconic volcanic island, and marvel at its stunning caldera views. | Santorini |
| Day 6 | Sea Kayaking in Santorini: Explore the coastline of Santorini by sea kayak, discovering hidden coves and dramatic rock formations. | Santorini |
| Day 7 | Return to Athens & Free Evening: Travel back to Athens and enjoy a free evening to explore the Plaka district or savor a traditional Greek dinner. | Athens |
| Day 8 | Departure from Athens: Bid farewell to Greece as you depart from Athens. |
This itinerary allows you to experience the historical significance of Athens and the unique charm of the Cyclades islands. You will commence with a comprehensive exploration of the Acropolis and its associated museum, delving into the rich history and mythology of ancient Greece. Subsequently, you’ll embark on a journey to Naxos, the largest island within the Cycladic archipelago, where you’ll partake in a captivating hike that meanders through the island’s historical tapestry and contemporary landscape. Concluding your expedition on the breathtaking island of Santorini, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in the exhilarating activity of sea kayaking, enabling you to witness the island’s iconic caldera from a unique vantage point.
### Recommended 9-Day Itinerary: Adventure and Relaxation in the Aegean
This nine-day itinerary balances cultural exploration with outdoor activities, perfect for active travelers seeking adventure.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Athens: Settle into your accommodation and begin exploring the Plaka district. | Athens |
| Day 2 | Guided Acropolis Visit: Explore the Acropolis and its museum with an expert guide. | Athens |
| Day 3 | Ferry to Naxos: Travel to Naxos and explore its coastline. | Naxos |
| Day 4 | Windsurfing or Paddleboarding in Naxos: Take advantage of the ideal conditions for windsurfing or paddleboarding at one of Naxos’s beautiful beaches. | Naxos |
| Day 5 | Naxos to Santorini: Ferry to Santorini and check into your hotel with caldera views. | Santorini |
| Day 6 | Sea Kayaking in Santorini: Discover hidden coves and dramatic cliffs by sea kayak. | Santorini |
| Day 7 | Caldera Day Hike: Hike along the caldera rim, taking in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the volcanic landscape. | Santorini |
| Day 8 | Return to Athens & Free Evening: Travel back to Athens and enjoy a relaxing evening. | Athens |
| Day 9 | Departure from Athens: Depart from Athens. |
This action-packed nine-day itinerary offers a blend of cultural immersion and exhilarating outdoor pursuits in Athens and the islands. Begin your adventure atop the Acropolis in Athens, where you’ll delve into the city’s rich history and architectural marvels. Then, set sail for the vibrant island of Naxos, renowned as one of the largest in the Cyclades. Here, you can seize the opportunity to partake in windsurfing, taking advantage of the island’s exceptional wind conditions, which make it a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Your journey continues to Santorini, where you can engage in the thrilling activity of sea kayaking, allowing you to explore the island’s dramatic coastline and hidden coves. Furthermore, you can embark on a caldera hike, immersing yourself in the island’s breathtaking volcanic landscape and capturing panoramic vistas of the Aegean Sea.
### Recommended 10-Day Itinerary: Athenian Riviera and Cycladic Charm
This ten-day itinerary combines historical exploration with relaxation and coastal experiences, providing a well-rounded Greek adventure.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Athens: Settle into your accommodation and explore the city center. | Athens |
| Day 2 | Guided Acropolis Visit: Visit the Acropolis and its accompanying museum. | Athens |
| Day 3 | Vouliagmeni Coastal Town & Windsurfing: Explore the Athenian Riviera, visit the coastal town of Vouliagmeni, and try your hand at windsurfing. | Athens |
| Day 4 | Ferry to Naxos: Take a ferry to Naxos and explore its main town. | Naxos |
| Day 5 | Historic Naxos Hike: Explore traditional villages and ancient ruins with a guided hike through Naxos’s interior. | Naxos |
| Day 6 | Naxos to Santorini: Ferry to Santorini and enjoy its incredible views. | Santorini |
| Day 7 | Free Day in Santorini: Relax on the beach, explore the villages of Oia and Fira, or take a boat trip to the volcanic islands. | Santorini |
| Day 8 | Sea Kayaking in Santorini: Discover hidden coves and dramatic cliffs by sea kayak. | Santorini |
| Day 9 | Return to Athens & Free Evening: Return to Athens and enjoy a free evening to explore the city. | Athens |
| Day 10 | Departure from Athens: Depart from Athens. |
Embark on a captivating ten-day journey through some of Greece’s most sought-after destinations, where you’ll be immersed in a world of ancient history, idyllic island landscapes, and sun-kissed beaches. Your adventure commences in Athens, where you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the iconic Acropolis and bask in the splendor of the Athenian Riviera. Afterward, you’ll set sail towards the enchanting Cyclades islands, with your first port of call being Naxos. Here, you’ll embark on a historical hike, traversing the island’s rich tapestry of ancient ruins and charming villages, offering a glimpse into its captivating past. Finally, your voyage culminates in Santorini, where you’ll have the chance to unwind on its pristine beaches and revel in the awe-inspiring vistas of the caldera.
## Extended Itineraries: Venturing Beyond the Familiar
For those with more time, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate additional destinations and experiences.
### 10-Day Itinerary Including Mykonos: A Taste of Glamour and Tradition
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Athens, Welcome Dinner: Settle into your accommodation in Athens and enjoy a welcome dinner. | Athens |
| Day 2 | Athens Food Tour: Embark on a culinary adventure through Athens with a guided food tour. | Athens |
| Day 3 | Athens to Santorini: Travel from Athens to Santorini. | Santorini |
| Day 4 | Catamaran Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing catamaran cruise around the island of Santorini. | Santorini |
| Day 5 | Ferry to Naxos: Travel to Naxos. | Naxos |
| Day 6 | Naxos Beaches and Villages Bike Tour: Explore Naxos’s beaches and villages on a guided bike tour. | Naxos |
| Day 7 | Cooking Class on Naxos: Learn the secrets of Greek cuisine with a cooking class on Naxos. | Naxos |
| Day 8 | Ferry to Mykonos: Travel to Mykonos. | Mykonos |
| Day 9 | Farm Visit and Mykonian Dinner: Experience the local culture with a farm visit and Mykonian dinner. | Mykonos |
| Day 10 | Return to Athens, Depart: Return to Athens for your departure. |
This itinerary presents an extraordinary opportunity to capture the allure of the Cyclades islands, transforming those iconic images from travel guidebooks into tangible memories and shareable moments on your social media feeds. For centuries, these renowned islands have ignited the imaginations of countless travelers, and now, it’s your turn to embark on an unforgettable exploration, whether it’s gliding past sun-drenched beaches by boat or settling in for an evening of storytelling and delectable cuisine on a charming island farm.
### 14-Day Itinerary Including Heraklion and Chania: Unveiling Crete’s Treasures
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Athens: Arrive in Athens and check in. | Athens |
| Day 2 | The Acropolis & Ancient Greek Mythology & Museum Tour: Immerse yourself in history. | Athens |
| Day 3 | Day Trip to Delphi: Explore the ancient sanctuary of Delphi on a day trip. | Athens |
| Day 4 | Visit Kallimarmaro, Ancient Cooking Class: Visit the Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro) and participate in an ancient Greek cooking class. | Athens |
| Day 5 | Athens to Chania: Travel from Athens to Chania. | Chania |
| Day 6 | Old Town of Chania Tour: Take a guided tour of Chania’s charming Old Town. | Chania |
| Day 7 | Gramvousa and Balos Beaches: Explore the stunning beaches of Gramvousa and Balos. | Chania |
| Day 8 | Rethymno, Knossos, and Heraklion: Visit Rethymno, Knossos, and Heraklion on a day trip. | Heraklion |
| Day 9 | Arrive in Santorini – Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tasting: Travel to Santorini. | Santorini |
| Day 10 | Discover Prehistoric Akrotiri: Explore the prehistoric settlement of Akrotiri. | Santorini |
| Day 11 | Ferry to Naxos: Ferry to Naxos. | Naxos |
| Day 12 | Ancient Naxos Guided Hike: Embark on a guided hike through ancient sites on Naxos. | Naxos |
| Day 13 | Beach Day on Naxos: Relax and enjoy a beach day on Naxos. | Naxos |
| Day 14 | Naxos to Athens and Depart: Depart from Naxos. |
This meticulously crafted itinerary offers an immersive experience into the culture, captivating landscapes, and romantic allure of Crete – Greece’s largest island – alongside the captivating city of Athens and the quintessential Greek island group, the Cyclades. Following your exploration of the captivating Greek capital, you’ll establish your base in the coastal city of Chania, renowned for its medieval architecture, graceful mansions, exquisitely sculpted fountains, and the picturesque Venetian port that graces countless postcards. From this strategic location, you’ll embark on a journey of exploration, uncovering the hidden gems of Crete. Subsequently, you’ll venture to Santorini, where you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s renowned highlights, before concluding your adventure in the lesser-known yet equally enchanting island of Naxos, the epitome of Cycladic charm.
### 14-Day Itinerary Including Mykonos and Chania: A Cycladic and Cretan Odyssey
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Athens: Arrive in Athens and transfer to your hotel. | Athens |
| Day 2 | Athens to Mykonos: Travel to Mykonos. | Mykonos |
| Day 3 | Farm Visit and Mykonian Dinner: Immerse yourself in local tradition. | Mykonos |
| Day 4 | Ferry to Naxos: Travel to Naxos by ferry. | Naxos |
| Day 5 | Cooking Class on Naxos: Participate in a cooking class to learn Greek culinary secrets. | Naxos |
| Day 6 | Beach Day on Naxos: Relax and enjoy the beaches of Naxos. | Naxos |
| Day 7 | Arrive in Santorini – Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tasting: Settle into your accommodation. | Santorini |
| Day 8 | Catamaran Cruise: Enjoy the waters. | Santorini |
| Day 9 | Santorini to Chania: Travel to Chania in Crete. | Chania |
| Day 10 | Old Town of Chania Tour: Explore Chania. | Chania |
| Day 11 | Dinner and Traditional Dancing at the Botanical Gardens: Experience local culture. | Chania |
| Day 12 | Gramvousa and Balos Beaches: Visit these famed beach locations. | Chania |
| Day 13 | Return to Athens and Athens Food Tour: Journey back to Athens. | Athens |
| Day 14 | Depart Athens: Depart from Athens. |
The captivating Cyclades islands stretch across hundreds of miles, boasting a rich history that spans centuries. This two-week itinerary embarks in the glamorous island of Mykonos, before making a stop in Naxos for a delightful blend of relaxation on its pristine beaches and a hands-on cooking class, offering insights into the art of Greek cuisine. Subsequently, your journey will lead you to the volcanic landscapes and breathtaking sunsets of Santorini, where you can marvel at the island’s iconic cliffside architecture. Concluding your adventure on the enchanting island of Crete, you’ll be greeted by pristine beaches, exquisite cuisine, and unparalleled hospitality.
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