Most travelers will find that 7 to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced Greece trip with stops in Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos. Travelers with less time can hit the route’s highlights in 4 to 6 days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Naxos, Chania, or Elounda. Get inspired with our Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos trip ideas below.
## Exploring the Wonders of Greece: Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos and Beyond
Planning a trip to Greece? The allure of its ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture is undeniable. Many travelers dream of experiencing the iconic islands of Santorini and Mykonos, combined with the historical richness of Athens. But how much time do you truly need to make the most of this incredible journey? Let’s delve into the possibilities and explore some recommended itineraries.
Typically, most travelers find that a 7 to 10-day trip provides a satisfying experience when visiting Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos. This timeframe allows for a balance between exploring the highlights and enjoying some relaxation. However, attempting to squeeze Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos into a shorter 4 to 6-day trip is certainly possible, but be prepared for a whirlwind adventure where you might feel perpetually rushed, sacrificing deeper immersion in each destination.
If you’re fortunate enough to have 11 days or more at your disposal, the possibilities expand significantly. With extra time, most travelers opt to extend their journey by including additional captivating stops. Popular choices for these extensions include the beautiful island of Naxos, known for its stunning beaches and traditional villages; the charming town of Chania in Crete, boasting Venetian architecture and a rich history; and the luxurious resort area of Elounda, also located in Crete, offering unparalleled relaxation and breathtaking views.
## Recommended Itineraries for Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos: Unveiling the Magic
To help you plan your unforgettable Greek adventure, let’s explore some recommended itineraries, ranging from a week-long escape to more extended explorations.
### Recommended Itinerary for 7 Days: A Taste of History and Island Bliss
This itinerary offers a perfect blend of ancient history in Athens and the sun-kissed beaches of the Cycladic Islands.
**Day 1: Arrival in Athens**
Your Greek adventure begins in the vibrant capital city of Athens. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and prepare to embark on a journey through time.
**Day 2: Athens to Mykonos**
After a morning of exploring Athens, it’s time to set sail for the glamorous island of Mykonos. Enjoy a scenic ferry ride across the Aegean Sea and arrive in Mykonos, ready to experience its unique charm.
**Day 3: Exploring Authentic Mykonos**
Delve into the heart of Mykonos, discovering its hidden gems beyond the bustling tourist hotspots. Explore traditional villages, wander through charming alleyways, and savor authentic Greek cuisine.
**Day 4: Mykonos to Santorini**
Another ferry journey awaits, this time to the breathtaking island of Santorini. Prepare to be mesmerized by the iconic white-washed villages clinging to the volcanic cliffs.
**Day 5: Catamaran Cruise in Santorini**
Indulge in a luxurious catamaran cruise around the stunning Santorini caldera. Admire the dramatic landscapes, swim in crystal-clear waters, and soak up the sun’s warmth.
**Day 6: Santorini Wine Tasting Tour**
Santorini is renowned for its unique volcanic wines. Embark on a wine-tasting tour, visiting local wineries and sampling the distinct flavors of the island.
**Day 7: Santorini to Athens – Departure from Athens**
Enjoy a final morning in Santorini before returning to Athens for your departure, filled with unforgettable memories of your Greek adventure.
This seven-day adventure expertly pairs the historical significance of Athens with the idyllic beauty of the Cycladic islands. Start your journey in the Greek capital, where you can explore the iconic Acropolis and immerse yourself in the vibrant local neighborhoods. From there, a relaxing ferry ride will transport you to Mykonos, where you can unwind on pristine beaches and experience the island’s legendary nightlife under the watchful gaze of its famous windmills. The grand finale of your trip awaits in Santorini, where you’ll be greeted by gleaming white cliffs, breathtaking caldera views, enchanting sunset cruises, and delightful wine-tasting experiences.
### Recommended Itinerary for 8 Days: Diving Deeper into Greek Culture
This itinerary allows for a more in-depth exploration of Athens, combined with the highlights of Mykonos and Santorini.
**Day 1: Arrival in Athens**
Welcome to Athens! Get settled and prepare for an exciting journey through Greek history and culture.
**Day 2: The Acropolis & Ancient Greek Mythology & Museum Tour in Athens**
Immerse yourself in the wonders of ancient Greece with a guided tour of the Acropolis, followed by a visit to the Acropolis Museum. Learn about the fascinating mythology and history that shaped this incredible civilization.
**Day 3: Athens to Mykonos**
Take a ferry to Mykonos and get ready to explore this cosmopolitan island known for its vibrant atmosphere.
**Day 4: Exploring Authentic Mykonos**
Venture beyond the tourist crowds and discover the authentic side of Mykonos, exploring traditional villages and hidden gems.
**Day 5: Mykonos to Santorini**
Ferry to Santorini and prepare to be captivated by the island’s iconic landscapes and breathtaking views.
**Day 6: Catamaran Cruise in Santorini**
Enjoy a memorable catamaran cruise around the Santorini caldera, swimming in the turquoise waters and soaking up the sun.
**Day 7: Santorini Wine Tasting Tour**
Indulge in a wine-tasting experience, sampling the unique volcanic wines that Santorini is famous for.
**Day 8: Santorini to Athens – Departure from Athens**
Enjoy a final morning in Santorini before returning to Athens for your departure, cherishing the memories of your Greek adventure.
This eight-day tour takes you to three major hotspots, showcasing some of Greece’s most iconic sites. Begin your adventure in Athens, where you’ll delve into ancient history and explore the city’s cultural treasures. Then, hop on a ferry to the glamorous island of Mykonos, where you’ll discover pristine beaches, vibrant boardwalks, and exciting nightlife, all under the iconic windmills. Conclude your trip in Santorini, with its classic white-topped cliffs and breathtaking caldera views, enjoying island cruising, wine tasting, and unforgettable sunsets.
### Recommended Itinerary for 9 Days: Beach Bliss and Island Hopping
This itinerary includes a dedicated beach day in Mykonos, allowing for more relaxation and enjoyment of the island’s famous shores.
**Day 1: Arrival in Athens**
Arrive in Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, and settle into your accommodation.
**Day 2: The Acropolis & Ancient Greek Mythology & Museum Tour in Athens**
Embark on a guided tour of the Acropolis, followed by a visit to the Acropolis Museum, to gain a deeper understanding of ancient Greek history and mythology.
**Day 3: Athens to Mykonos**
Take a ferry to Mykonos, the jet-setting island known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches.
**Day 4: Exploring Authentic Mykonos**
Explore the authentic side of Mykonos by venturing into its traditional villages and discovering hidden gems.
**Day 5: Mykonos Beach Day**
Spend the day relaxing on one of Mykonos’ famous beaches, soaking up the sun and enjoying the crystal-clear waters.
**Day 6: Mykonos to Santorini**
Ferry to Santorini, the volcanic island renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and iconic white-washed villages.
**Day 7: Catamaran Cruise in Santorini**
Indulge in a luxurious catamaran cruise around the Santorini caldera, swimming in the turquoise waters and admiring the dramatic landscapes.
**Day 8: Santorini Wine Tasting Tour**
Sample the unique volcanic wines of Santorini with a guided wine-tasting tour, visiting local wineries and learning about the island’s viticulture.
**Day 9: Santorini to Athens – Departure from Athens**
Enjoy a final morning in Santorini before returning to Athens for your departure, carrying cherished memories of your Greek adventure.
Embark on a nine-day tour of Greece’s major hotspots and iconic sites. Your journey begins in Athens, where you’ll have a full day to immerse yourself in the Acropolis and explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. Next, hop on a ferry to the glamorous island of Mykonos, where you’ll discover beautiful beaches, lively boardwalks, and exciting nightlife under the island’s iconic windmills. Finally, conclude your trip in Santorini, with its classic white-topped cliffs and breathtaking caldera views, enjoying island cruising, wine tasting, and unforgettable sunsets.
### Recommended Itinerary for 10 Days: Delphi and the Cyclades
This itinerary includes a day trip to the ancient ruins of Delphi, providing a deeper exploration of Greek history and mythology.
**Day 1: Arrival in Athens**
Welcome to Athens, the historical heart of Greece!
**Day 2: Acropolis and Ancient Greek Mythology Tour in Athens**
Delve into the wonders of ancient Greece with a guided tour of the Acropolis and learn about the captivating mythology that shaped this incredible civilization.
**Day 3: Day Trip to Delphi**
Take a day trip to Delphi, the ancient sanctuary and home to the famous oracle, nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus.
**Day 4: Athens to Mykonos**
Ferry to Mykonos, the cosmopolitan island known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.
**Day 5: Farm Visit and Mykonian Dinner**
Experience the authentic flavors of Mykonos with a visit to a local farm, followed by a traditional Mykonian dinner.
**Day 6: Horseback Riding to Fokos Beach in Mykonos**
Explore the natural beauty of Mykonos with a horseback riding excursion to the secluded Fokos Beach.
**Day 7: Mykonos to Santorini**
Ferry to Santorini and prepare to be amazed by the island’s dramatic landscapes and stunning sunsets.
**Day 8: Catamaran Cruise in Santorini**
Embark on a luxurious catamaran cruise around the Santorini caldera, swimming in the turquoise waters and admiring the breathtaking scenery.
**Day 9: Santorini Wine Tasting Tour**
Indulge in a wine-tasting experience, sampling the unique volcanic wines that Santorini is famous for.
**Day 10: Santorini to Athens – Departure from Athens**
Enjoy a final morning in Santorini before returning to Athens for your departure, taking with you cherished memories of your Greek adventure.
This ten-day tour takes you to three major Greek hotspots, offering a comprehensive exploration of the country’s history, culture, and natural beauty. Begin with a full day in Athens, followed by a captivating day trip to the ancient ruins of Delphi. Then, hop on a ferry to the glamorous island of Mykonos, where you’ll discover stunning beaches, lively boardwalks, and exciting nightlife. Finally, conclude your trip in Santorini, with its iconic white-topped cliffs and breathtaking caldera views, enjoying island cruising, wine tasting, and unforgettable sunsets.
## Extended Itineraries: Beyond the Classics
For those with more time to explore, consider these extended itineraries that venture beyond the classic Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos combination.
### 10-Day Itinerary Including Naxos: A Relaxing Island Escape
This itinerary offers a more relaxed pace, incorporating the beautiful island of Naxos into your Greek adventure.
**Day 1: Arrival in Athens, Welcome Dinner**
Arrive in Athens and enjoy a welcome dinner, setting the stage for your incredible Greek journey.
**Day 2: Athens Food Tour**
Embark on a culinary adventure through Athens with a guided food tour, sampling local delicacies and experiencing the city’s vibrant food scene.
**Day 3: Athens to Santorini**
Ferry to Santorini and prepare to be mesmerized by the island’s iconic landscapes and breathtaking views.
**Day 4: Catamaran Cruise in Santorini**
Indulge in a luxurious catamaran cruise around the Santorini caldera, swimming in the turquoise waters and soaking up the sun’s warmth.
**Day 5: Ferry to Naxos**
Take a ferry to Naxos, the largest of the Cycladic islands, known for its stunning beaches and traditional villages.
**Day 6: Naxos Beaches and Villages Bike Tour**
Explore the beauty of Naxos with a bike tour, visiting its pristine beaches and charming villages.
**Day 7: Cooking Class on Naxos**
Immerse yourself in the local culture with a cooking class, learning to prepare traditional Naxian dishes.
**Day 8: Ferry to Mykonos**
Ferry to Mykonos, the jet-setting island known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.
**Day 9: Farm Visit and Mykonian Dinner**
Experience the authentic flavors of Mykonos with a visit to a local farm, followed by a traditional Mykonian dinner.
**Day 10: Return to Athens, Departure**
Return to Athens for your departure, filled with incredible memories of your Greek island adventure.
This ten-day itinerary takes you from the pages of guidebooks to your very own social media feed as you explore the coast of the Cyclades. These famous islands have captured the imaginations of travelers for centuries, and now it’s your turn to explore them by boat, bike, and more. Whether you’re smoothly riding past sunny beaches or settling in for dinner and stories on an island farm, this itinerary offers a relaxed and immersive experience.
### 10-Day Itinerary Including Nafplio, Heraklion, and Chania: A Historical Deep Dive
This itinerary focuses on exploring the historical sites of mainland Greece and Crete, offering a deeper understanding of ancient Greek civilization.
**Day 1: Arrival in Athens**
Arrive in Athens and prepare to embark on a journey through ancient Greek history and culture.
**Day 2: Guided Acropolis Visit in Athens**
Explore the iconic Acropolis with a guided tour, learning about its fascinating history and significance.
**Day 3: Day Trip to Delphi**
Take a day trip to Delphi, the ancient sanctuary and home to the famous oracle, nestled on the slopes of Mount Parnassus.
**Day 4: Athens to Mykonos, Visit Delos**
Ferry to Mykonos and take a short boat trip to the nearby island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.
**Day 5: Mykonos to Santorini**
Ferry to Santorini and prepare to be captivated by the island’s stunning landscapes and breathtaking views.
**Day 6: Discover Prehistoric Akrotiri, Ferry to Crete**
Explore the prehistoric city of Akrotiri in Santorini, then take a ferry to Crete, the largest of the Greek islands.
**Day 7: Tour Knossos and Heraklion, Travel to Chania**
Visit the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos and explore the city of Heraklion, then travel to Chania, a charming town on the western coast of Crete.
**Day 8: Ancient Aptera Tour near Chania**
Explore the ancient ruins of Aptera, a well-preserved Minoan and Roman city near Chania.
**Day 9: Return to Athens, Visit Mycenae and Nafplio**
Return to Athens and visit the ancient city of Mycenae, home to the legendary King Agamemnon, and the charming coastal town of Nafplio.
**Day 10: Nafplio to Athens and Departure**
Enjoy a final morning in Nafplio before returning to Athens for your departure, carrying cherished memories of your historical Greek adventure.
Dive headfirst into history with this tour of some of ancient Greece’s most important sites. Go from Athens and the Acropolis to the oracle at Delphi to the islands of Delos, Santorini, and Crete. Along the way, you’ll see fascinating archaeological ruins and visit some of Greece’s most beautiful locales. Wrap up your trip back on the mainland with a stop at Helen of Troy’s home at Mycenae before returning to the modern era.
### 10-Day Itinerary Including Heraklion and Chania: Crete and the Cyclades
This itinerary combines the highlights of the Cyclades with the historical and cultural richness of Crete.
**Day 1: Arrival in Athens**
Arrive in Athens, the gateway to your Greek adventure.
**Day 2: Acropolis and Ancient Greek Mythology Tour in Athens**
Delve into the wonders of ancient Greece with a guided tour of the Acropolis and learn about the captivating mythology that shaped this incredible civilization.
**Day 3: Athens to Mykonos**
Ferry to Mykonos, the cosmopolitan island known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches.
**Day 4: Day Trip to Delos from Mykonos**
Take a day trip to the nearby island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.
**Day 5: Arrive in Santorini – Sightseeing Tour & Wine Tasting**
Arrive in Santorini and enjoy a sightseeing tour of the island, followed by a wine-tasting experience.
**Day 6: Santorini Catamaran Cruise, Ferry to Crete**
Embark on a luxurious catamaran cruise around the Santorini caldera, then take a ferry to Crete.
**Day 7: Guided Knossos and Heraklion Tour**
Visit the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos and explore the city of Heraklion with a guided tour.
**Day 8: Travel to Chania, Explore the Villages of Apokoronas**
Travel to Chania and explore the traditional villages of the Apokoronas region.
**Day 9: Return to Athens and Athens Food Tour**
Return to Athens and embark on a culinary adventure with a guided food tour.
**Day 10: Departure from Athens**
Depart from Athens, filled with incredible memories of your Greek island and mainland adventure.
Experience some of the greatest aspects of Greece and its islands on this itinerary. You’ll start in Athens, traveling back in time with a visit to the Acropolis and other key ancient sites around the city, viewed through the lens of Greek mythology. Then head into the islands, starting with a tour of Mykonos and its neighboring mythological island of Delos. Off to Santorini next for sunsets and sightseeing, followed by the historic sites and traditional villages of Crete before you return to Athens.
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