3 week tour of greece

3 weeks in Greece: The Ultimate 20-21 Days Itinerary + My Best Tips

3-week greece itinerary : the best things to do + where to stay.

You’re planning to spend 3 weeks in Greece and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

That’s perfect!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this 3 weeks itinerary in Greece .

During your 20-21 days trip , you will discover some of the country’s best places to visit such as Athens , the Peloponnese region , Delphi , the Meteora as well as 4 islands of the Cyclades archipelago : Santorini , Amorgos , Naxos and Paros .

In addition to the must-see attractions for each stage of the itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, how to spend three weeks in Greece?

Let’s find out!

Where to stay in Athens

Where to stay in nafplio, where to stay in mystras, where to stay in olympia, where to stay in delphi, where to stay in meteora, 7) thessaloniki (1 day), where to stay in santorini, best hotels in oia, best hotels in fira, other best places to stay in santorini island (cheaper), best hotels in katapola, best hotels in aegiali, where to stay in naxos, best hotels in parikia, best hotels in naoussa, 12) return to santorini or athens (1 day), greece tours, renting a boat in greece, cyclades (greek islands), 1) athens (2 days).

If you want to visit Greece in 3 weeks, the best is to land in Athens Airport.

Getting around Athens on foot is really easy, however, you will have to rent a car for the next stages of your trip to Greece.

You’ve got 2 options:

• You can rent a car directly at your arrival in Athens
• Or you can go back to the airport on your 3rd day to get it, when you will leave Athens for Peloponnese.

In any case, if you plan to rent a car in Greece, you should use Booking.com Cars website. It’s the one i am using every time I travel!

Here is why:

• It’s a price comparator: In just 1 click, you can compare prices of all rental cars companies in Athens airport for example.
• You will be able to see clients reviews for each company and choose accordingly.
• They offer a great “full protection insurance”: If you take it, you will be 100% refunded in case of accident or theft. Tested and approved, they refunded me more than 1200 euros in total!
• And last but not least, Booking.com Cars offers the “best price guarantee” . If you find the same car cheaper elsewhere, they will refund you the difference!

One last tip: if you already know your travel dates, you should check the car rentals prices now in order to get the best price . Booking early is the best way to save money! Click the button below to check rental cars prices in Greece:

It’s now time to go to your hotel in Athens. If you haven’t rented your car yet, you will have 4 options to reach the city centre:

• By taxi: 40€
• By bus: the line X95 goes directly to Syntagma Square, Athens’ main square. But beware of traffic jams!
• By metro: the line 3 (the blue one) is the fastest option to go to the city centre.
• Your hotel airport shuttle service, if they have one.

For your first day in Athens, you should visit, in order:

• The Acropolis Museum to discover the history of Athens’ most famous ancient site. Directly get a skip-the-line ticket here!
• Athens Acropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a must-see attraction during your 3-weeks stay in Greece!
• The picturesque Plaka district
• The Ancient Agora and its museum
• Monastiraki district, often nicknamed “the souks”, as you will find many small shops there!
• Philopappos Hill to admire the sunset
• And if you like to party, you should go to Gazi district.

Spend the night in Athens.

The next morning, you should take a stroll in Athens to visit some other monuments.

Here are the best things to do during this 2nd day:

• The Panathenaic Stadium: it hosted sporting events way before our Modern Olympic Games
• The Arch of Hadrian
• The Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Zappeion Park and the National Garden
• Syntagma Square, where the Changing of the Presidential Guard takes place every hour
• Ermou street, if you like shopping
• Athens National Archaeological Museum
• Mount Lycabettus, the perfect place to admire the sunset over the Acropolis.

Spend another night in Athens.

You will find more details about the best places to visit in Athens in my article: The 20 best things to do in Athens.

You can buy a 30€ combined ticket to visit the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora and 4 other sites: Hadrian’s Library, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, the Roman Agora and the Lyceum (Lykeion).

It’s valid for 5 days.

To get this combined ticket, it’s very simple, you just have to book it by clicking on the button below:

To make them most of your visit to Athens, you should opt for the Athens City Pass. It includes all the must-see attractions , such as:

• The combined Acropolis ticket mentioned above
• The Acropolis Museum entrance ticket
• An audio guide for your visit to Athens
• A 10% discount on all other attractions in Athens

To book it, simply click here:

And if you want to learn everything about the Acropolis History , the best is to opt for a guided visit (it’s also a skip the line ticket).

The best guided tour in English is the one from GetyourGuide Originals. It’s so great that they will give you a full refund if you don’t enjoy your time!

To book it, you just have to click on the button below:

• Bedbox Hostel: A Youth Hostel located 300m from Monastiraki Square, and 700m from the Acropolis. Dormitory room starting from 18€ per night. Strong points: the location, the really kind staff and the cleanliness!
• Evripides Hotel: Located 400m from Ermou Street and 500m from Monastiraki. The rooms are simple but comfortable, starting from 70€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the breathtaking view of the Acropolis from the rooftop, the location (perfect to visit Athens on foot) and the friendly and helpful staff! A great choice in Athens for its exceptional value for money!
• Amalia Hotel: Located on Syntagma Square, just in front of the National Gardens. The double rooms are modern and spacious. Some of them even have a balcony with a nice view of the gardens. The price starts at 155€ per night with breakfast included. Strong points: The comfort, the generous breakfast, and the location in the centre of Athens.
• Wyndham Grand Athens: 5-star Hotel located 1km from Ermou Street and 1.5km from the Acropolis. You’ll love the elegant and design double rooms here, starting from 200€ per night. Breakfast will cost you 16€. Strong points: the outdoor pool on the roof, the view of the Acropolis, the spa center, and the location right next to a metro station!
• Electra Metropolis: This 5-star hotel is located only 200m from Syntagma Square and 600m from the Acropolis. The price for a spacious and comfortable double room starts at 270€ per night, breakfast included. What I loved: the ideal location, the view of The Acropolis from the rooftop, the amazing restaurant, the pool. The best choice for a luxury stay in Athens

2) Mycenae / Epidaurus / Nafplio (1 day)

Let’s continue your 3-weeks in Greece itinerary and visit the Peloponnese region.

For your 1st day in the peninsula, you should visit the 3 following places:

• Corinth Canal, located 1 hour from Athens. You have to stop and take a picture of this canal, carved into stone to avoid the boats a 400km detour. If you’re lucky to see a boat crossing, you will notice the narrowness of the canal. The biggest boats just have a few centimetres of free space on each side. It’s really impressive to see!
• M ycenae, located 40 minutes from the Canal. The former home of king Agamemnon is also one of the most ancient site in Greece. Today, the Royal Palace and Tholos Tombs are mostly in ruins. If you’re not an history lover, the next visit will be more interesting for you.
• Epidaurus, located a 45-minute drive from Mycenae. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its well preserved ancient theatre with its exceptional acoustic. It’s one of the best places to visit in Peloponnese.

At the end of the day, drive to your last stop: the lovely seaside town of Nafplio. It will take you 30 minutes to get there from Epidaurus.

Enjoy a walk in the old town, and go to Acronafplia Castle to admire the view. You can even go take a dip at Arvanitia beach to end the day in style!

Spend the night in Nafplio.

You will find more informations about the Corinth Canal, Mycenae, Epidaurus and Nafplio in my article:  Visit Peloponnese: the definitive guide.

And for an exceptional experience during your 3 weeks itinerary in Greece, you can also do a 70m bungee jump over the Corinth Canal!

• Agamemnon Hotel: Located in Nafplio’s old town, just in front of the Bourtzi Castle. The double rooms, with a balcony and sea view for some of them, are starting from 55€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the location, the view, the kind staff.
• Amymone and Adiandi Hotel: Located 5 minutes away from the beach, in the old town. You will love the elegant double rooms, starting from 75€ including breakfast. What I loved: the delicious breakfast, the location on a pedestrian alley, the rooms’ original and nice design. It offers the best value for money in Nafplio!
• Amalia Nafplio Hotel: Located about 2km away from the city centre. The luxurious and comfortable double rooms are starting from 110€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the free private parking, the quietness, the varied breakfast.
• Nafplia Palace Hotel & Villas: This 5-star hotel is only 5 minutes away from the beach and 15 minutes away from the city centre. The rooms are large and modern, with balconies and the offer a great views of the sea and the castle. Price starts from 260€ per night. If you want an even more luxurious stay, you can sleep in a villa with its private pool, starting from 570€ per night. It’s my favorite hotel in Nafplio, perfect for a luxury stay!

3) Palamidi Fortress / Monemvasia (1 day)

New day, new visits!

In the morning, you will start by Palamidi Fortress, only about 10 minutes drive from Nafplio.

The fortress is quite huge, and you will enjoy great views of the city and the sea. Plan 1h30 – 2 hours to visit the site!

Then, get back in your car and drive for 3 hours to reach Monemvasia. It may sound a bit long but don’t worry, the landscape is really amazing on the road and time will fly by.

Surrounded by fortification walls, the lovely village of Monemvasia was built on an island under an high cliff and is completely hidden from the mainland. Inside Monemvasia, you will enjoy a stroll in its nice paved alleys with small shops and restaurants. On the main square, you will discover a church and a cathedral.

You can also take the path that leads you to the fortress, at the top of the hill. The panorama is really worth the small effort!

After Monemvasia, go to Mystras (around 1h30). You will drive quite a bit during this day, but it will be a lot more convenient for the next one.

• Byzantion Hotel : Located just across Mystras’ main square. The simple but comfortable rooms offer a view on the Archaeological site. Price starts from 55€, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the view, the private parking lot.
• Mazaraki Guesthouse: Located close to Mystras’ Archaeological Site and surrounded by nature, this place offers large and warm suites with balcony, starting from 115€ including breakfast. What I loved: the pool, the environment, the decoration, and the breakfast served in your room.
• Arxontiko Taygeti: This Guesthouse is located only 5km away from Mystras’ city centre. The duplex suites, with a kitchen, a living room and a balcony with a beautiful mountain view are starting from 160€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the calm, the kind staff, the environment. You will also find everything you need for breakfast in your fridge!
• Mystras Grand Palace Resort: This 5-star hotel is located only a 5-minute drive from Mystras. This brand new hotel offers rooms with stone walls, exposed beams and terrace, starting from 180€ per night including breakfast. What I loved: the pool, the hot tub, the sauna, the comfortable rooms, the calm. It’s the best choice for a luxury stay in Mystras.

4) Mystras / Olympia (1 day)

The 4th step of your 20 or 21 days trip to Greece starts with the visit of the Archaeological Site of Mystras

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the former capital of the Byzantine Empire. On the site, you will admire many churches, monasteries, covent and a fortress.

Mystras is divided in 2 parts: an upper town and a lower town. As you will find a parking lot at each entrance, the easiest way to visit Mystras is to start with the upper city, visit the fortress, and then drive back to the lower city to visit it.

Remember to keep your entrance ticket!

Mystras was one of my favorite places to visit during my 3-weeks road trip in Greece . You will need at least 3 hours to enjoy the site.

Once you will be done with the visit, drive for 2 hours to go to another must-see archaeological site: Olympia.

If you visit Mystras early in the morning, you can arrive in Olympia at around 3 or 4 p.m. This means you will have time to visit the museum and the ancient site.

Start with the Museum , to discover many statues and objects found on the site. Then, visit the archaeological site located nearby.

From 776 B.C to 393 A.D, Olympia was hosting the Olympic Games. There, you will see the remains of the temples, the sports installations and the gymnasium.

If it’s not too late, after your visit of the site, go have a look at the Museum of the Olympic Games. There, you will learn everything about the sporting events and the history of the Ancient Olympic Games. It would be a shame to miss it, as the entrance is included in your 12€ entrance ticket to the Olympia.

Spend a night in Olympia.

For more detailed information about Mystras and Olympia, you can read my article:  The 15 best things to do in Peloponnese.

• Leonidaion Guesthouse: Located only 10-minute walk from the Archaeological site of Olympia. The large and comfortable double rooms are starting from 55€ per night, including breakfast. What I loved: the free private parking lot, the location close to the site, the quietness. It’s the best value for money in Olympia!
• Amalia Hotel Olympia: Located at the city’s entrance. The large and bright rooms, with balcony or terrace are starting from 80€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the very tasty breakfast, the kind staff, the free fruit basket and water in your room.
• Arty Grand Hotel: Located on a hill overlooking the city, this 5-star hotel offers modern double rooms, with a small living room and a balcony, starting from 95€ per night including breakfast. Strong points: the huge outdoor pool, the indoor pool, the environment. It’s the best hotel for a luxury stay in Olympia!

5) Delphi (1 day)

After 3 days in Peloponnese, it’s time to go to Delphi to continue this 3-weeks in Greece itinerary.

Delphi is located a 3h15 drive from Olympia, but don’t worry: during your journey, you will have time to enjoy amazing landscapes and a few stops in beautiful towns!

The best places to see during this road trip are:

• Kalogria Sandhill: a large sand beach, surrounded by dunes and pine trees. Ideal if you want to rest or walk a bit!
• Gianiskari beach, a nice sand beach only accessible by a trail. It’s a very quiet place, far from tourists.
• Nafpaktos: a nice seaside town with 2 large beaches, several bars and a small port. Ideal for your lunch break. You can also visit the castle above the city, and enjoy the view of the bay up to Charilaos Trikoupis Bridge (the entrance fee is 2€)
• Galaxidi is another seaside village, where you can have a nice walk along the port and in the pine forest. You will find many bars and restaurants.
• Between Nafpaktos and Galaxidi, the seaside road is really beautiful, and there are some great beaches to take a dip!

Delphi is well-known for its prophecies. Here, the Pythia (the oracle of Delphi) transmitted Appolo’s directives from the gods to humans. In Ancient Greece, Delphi was considered to be the center of the world.

You can visit the archaeological site and the museum for 12€. You will discover the Temple of Apollo, the Theatre, the Stadium and enjoy the magnificent view of the mountains and valley!

Delphi is definitely a must-see place for your 3 weeks holiday in Greece. It was simply my favorite site of Ancient Greece.

Visit the archaeological site of Delphi at the end of the day, when the lighting is really beautiful. It will also give you more time to stop on the road and enjoy the beaches and small town!

• Fedriades Delphi Hotel: Located a 10-minute walk from the ancient site of Delphi. The modern double rooms with balcony are starting from 55€, and you have to add 8€ for breakfast. Strong points: the panoramic view, the high quality beds, the kind staff.
• Kastalia Boutique Hotel: Located only 5 minutes from Delphi. You’ll enjoy large and modern double rooms, starting from 62€ including breakfast. What I loved: the terrace, where you can have your breakfast, the warm welcome, the location. It’s the best value for money in Delphi!
• Nidimos Hotel: Located only 1km from the archaeological site. The bright and comfortable double rooms with balcony are starting from 65€ per night, with a 10€ breakfast. Strong points: the various and copious breakfast, the free parking lot, the beautiful view.
• Amalia Hotel Delphi : Located 800 meters from the archaeological site. Modern and bright double room offering a nice view up to the sea starting at 90€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the large swimming pool, the view. The most high-end hotel in Delphi!

6) The Meteora (1 day)

Let’s continue this 3 weeks trip to Greece with my favorite place in the country: the Meteora.

Located in Central Grece, the Meteora are quite far from Athens (5 hours) and from Thessaloniki (2h40), but you won’t regret going that far!

From Delphi, going to Meteora will take around 3h30 . So don’t leave too late and try to arrive there around 12. You can have your lunch break in Kalambaka (the main city nearby) , and ask for your map of the Meteora Monasteries at the tourist office.

The Meteora is a unique geological site, with huge rocks formations and monasteries built on the top of some of them! The scenery is truly amazing, it’s the perfect place to take beautiful pictures.

Back in time, the monks living here had to travel in nets or baskets pulled by a cable hundreds of feet over the ground. Nowadays, don’t worry, you can take the stairs to visit the 6 monasteries.

The most impressive is for sure to see them from the outside, but you can also visit the inside of the monasteries (3€ entrance fee for each) . If you only have the time to visit one, you should visit the Monastery of Great Meteoron, which is the biggest and most impressive.

Spend the night in one of the hotels below.

• Pyrgos Adrachti: Located in the village of Kastraki, only a 5-minute drive from the monasteries. The double rooms, with a beautiful view of the Meteora are starting from 60€, with a 7.50€ breakfast. Strong points: the magnificent view, the quietness, the amazing big breakfast.
• Meteora Hotel at Kastraki: Located in Kastraki. The modern and bright double rooms are starting from 80€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: the pool, the location in the countryside, the spectacular view. It’s the best value for money in Meteora!
• Hotel Meteoritis: Also located in Kastraki. You will love the spacious and comfortable double rooms, with a balcony and a view of the Meteora, starting from 125€ including breakfast. Strong points: the kind staff, the location, the private parking, the varied breakfast.

Now, it’s time to go to Thessaloniki. It’s the best place to take your plane to Santorini without having to go back to Athens.

You will have to drive around 2h40 from the Meteora.

Depending on your flight departure time, maybe you will have some time to visit Thessaloniki?

If you do, you can read my article about Greece’s 2nd largest city. You will find all my best tips to get around Thessaloniki on foot and visit the best points of interest:  How to visit Thessaloniki in 1 day?

It’s now time to fly to the 2nd part of your 3 weeks trip to Greece: The Cyclades islands. Let’s do some Greek island hopping !

You will save some time if you fly to Santorini from Thessaloniki. The flight aren’t more expensive than from Athens or than the ferry. And it’s a lot faster!

When you rent your car, notice that you will take it in Athens and drop it off in Thessaloniki. Choose a company that won’t charge extra fees if you drop your car off in another airport. Booking.com Cars website will help you to find the best car rental agency easily.

8) Santorini (3 days)

For the next stages of your 3 weeks itinerary in Greece, you will visit 4 islands of the Cyclades archipelago.

So let’s start your Cyclades itinerary ! The first Greek island you will visit is the world-famous Santorini island.

When you arrive in Santorini from Thessaloniki,  rent a car for 3 days , then go to your hotel (you will arrive quite late).

Here is the best itinerary to visit the Island in 3 days:

On your 1st day, visit Fira and Oia, the 2 most famous villages of Santorni.

You should do it in this order:

• In the morning, visit Fira as well as  Firostefani and Imerovigli , the 2 adjacent towns.
• Then, you can enjoy a very beautiful hike from Fira to Oia in the early afternoon. It takes between 1h30 and 2h. If you don’t want to walk, you can also drive to Oia.
• Visit Oia at the end of the day, and enjoy the sunset there.

For your 2nd day, The best is to go on a 1-day boat trip and:

• Discover the still active volcano of Nea Kameni
• Swim in Palea Kameni hot springs
• Visit Therasia, the island located right in front of Santorini.

It’s a top attraction of Santorini, so you imagine that most tourists want to do this fantastic cruise! As the seats are limited, you have to book it in advance by clicking on the button below.

And if you want a romantic and luxury trip on a catamaran, it’s right there:

Spend your 3rd and last day in Santorini doing a road trip to discover the rest of the island.

• Discover the villages of Pyrgos, Megalochori and Emporio.
• Visit the 2 ancient sites of the island: Akrotiri (often compared to Pompeii, in Italy ), and the Ancient Thera.
• Wine enthusiasts can also book an oenology tour with a small group, to discover Santorini’s vineyards, with 12 wines tasting included.  Book it right here!
• End your day and relax at the beach. The Red Beach and the Black Beach are the most famous. Monolithos Beach is ideal if you’re with children.

For more info to organise your trip, you should read my detailed article: How to visit Santorini in 3 days?

You must know that staying in Santorini, especially in the villages of the caldera like Oia and Fira , is quite expensive.

If you want a less expensive accommodation , it’s better to choose a hotel outside these 2 cities .

And of course, even more in Santorini than in any other place, book your hotels as early as possible!

To help you choose, I have made a selection of the best hotels in Santorini , depending on where you want to stay and your budget.

• Aethrio Hotel: Located in Oia, only a few steps away from the main square. You can rent double rooms, studio flats or apartments with balcony for most of them. The price starts from 160€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the swimming pool, the large rooms, the rooftop to admire the sunset. It’s one of the cheapest places in Oia, and it offers a great value for money!
• Caldera Premium Villas: Located in the centre of Oia. You will love the troglodyte suites with a breathtaking view of the sea and the caldera, starting from 290€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the design of the rooms, and the location.
• Theodora Suites Apartment: Located in the heart of the city. Studio flats with small kitchen, fridge, private terrace and hot tub, starting from 350€, breakfast included. What I loved: the hot tubs, the breathtaking view, the kind staff.
• Andronis Boutique Hotel: 5-star hotel located in Oia. You’ll enjoy large suites with a view of the caldera, private balcony and private hot tub or pool, starting from 800€ with breakfast included. Strong points: the idyllic scenery and the calm. It’s my recommendation for a one-week romantic stay in Greece!
• Katikies Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World: This luxurious hotel offers rooms and suites with a great view, bathtub and spa. The price starts from 1000€ with breakfast included. What I loved: the pools, the spas, the splendid views and the food! It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay in Santorini!

• Galatia Villas: Located 10 minutes away from Fira’s city centre. The double rooms are quite basic but nice, and the price starts from only 80€ per night. Strong points: the hot tub on the roof, the kind staff, the great value for money for Santorini.
• Lilium Santorini Villa: Located on the edge of the caldera. These elegant and modern double rooms with sea view are available starting from 315€, breakfast included. What I loved: the pool, the exceptionnal location, the warm and welcoming staff.
• Cosmopolitan Suites – Small Luxury Hotels of the World: Located in the heart of Fira. You will enjoy lovely rooms with private balcony, decorated in the purest Cycladian style, starting from 550€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the infinity pool over the cliff, and the luxury hotel services. This is the perfect place to stay with your lover in Santorini!
• Aria Suites: Located in Fira, this high standard hotel offers only 6 suites and luxury villas, fully equipped (you even get a laptop), starting from 700€ per night. What I loved: the magnificent place, the pool and the staff availability. This is a great choice for a luxurious and romantic stay in Fira!

• Memories Beach Hotel: Located just accross Monolithos beach. These comfortable modern rooms starts from 65€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the calm and the adorable staff.
• Rose Suites: Located in Vourvoulos, only 4 kilometers away from Fira. Those studio flats and apartments are well equiped and decorated, with a small kitchen and a private terrace. The prices are starting from 75€ per night. What I loved: the pool, the calm, the decoration. The fridge is also full with everything you need for breakfast. This is the best choice in Santorini for its exceptional value for money!
• Hippocampus Hotel: Located in Kamari, only 50 meters away from the beach. The rooms, with a view on the swimming pool or the garden, are starting from 85€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the ideal location close to the beach, and the really kind staff.
• Meltemi Village Hotel: Located in Perissa, only 5 minutes away from the Black beach. The rooms and suites with hot tubs are starting from 100€ per night, with the breakfast included. What I loved: the pools, the spa, and the great breakfast. A great choice for a stay on Santorini’s shore!

9) Amorgos (3 days)

It’s now time to visit other islands in the Cyclades.

The 2nd island you will visit is Amorgos, located only 1h from Santorini by ferry boat.

If you want to book your ferry ticket and check the schedules, you have to use Ferries in Greece website .

Be careful, Amorgos has 2 ports, Katapola and Aegiali. Don’t forget to check your port of arrival and departure!

You can’t take the ferry from Santorini with your rental car (as it’s forbidden). You will have to rent a new car on each island. As Amorgos is a small island, you can’t book your car in advance, and you will have to rent it directly when arriving. Don’t worry, there are several car rentals companies just in front of the ferry pier.

For your 1st day, take your car and start discovering the island:

• Katapola, the principal port.
• Hora, the capital, and its many old mills
• Have a lunch break in one of the typical taverns of the village
• The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa
• Agia Ana cove, close to the monastery.
• Kalotaritissa, a great beach to relax and swim a bit. You can also see the ship wreck of “The Big Blue” movie.

For the 2 other days, you can go hiking on the many walking trails of the island. You will find every information you need on  Amorgos’ official website.

Amorgos is a real paradise for hiking lovers. And the best is that most hikes will also allow you to discover great beaches and coves to swim and rest! I really loved visiting Amorgos during my Greek island itinerary .

If you want to everything about Amorgos island, you should read my article:  Visit Amorgos: the definitive guide.  

Where to stay in Amorgos

When you visit Amorgos, you can stay in one of the 2 main cities: Katapola and Aegiali. Choose between the 2 according to your port of departure!

Here is a selection of the best places to stay in Amorgos:

• Amorgion Hotel: Located 1km from the port of Katapola, and at only 8-minute walk from the beach. The double rooms with private balcony, and a view of the Aegean Sea for some of them, are starting from 50€ per night, with an 8€ breakfast. Strong points: the pool, the private free parking, the warm welcome. It’s the only hotel with a swimming pool in Katapola!
• Barbara Pension: Located 5 minutes away from the beach, right next to the port of Katapola. The studio flats are equipped with a sink , a fridge and also have a balcony. The prices are starting from 55€per night. Strong points: the cleanliness, the quietness, the very kind owner!
• Diasino Studios: Located close to the port. The studio flats and apartments are modern, with terrace or balcony. The prices are starting from 60€ with a 5€ breakfast. What I loved: the calm, the location close to all the restaurants. It’s the best value for money in Katapola!
• Landeris Hotel: Located 3 minutes away from the beach, and close to the port. The rooms, studio flats and apartments are decorated in a rustic style, with wooden furniture. The prices are starting from 60€ per night with breakfast included. Strong points: the kindness of the owners, the delicious breakfast, the great advice!
• Minoa Hotel: Located 100m from the beach, close to the port. The bright and large double rooms, with balcony are starting from 80€ per night including breakfast. Strong points: the kind staff, the great breakfast.
• Pelagos: Located only 3 minutes from the beach and 100m from the port of Aegiali. The double rooms with balcony and sea view are starting from 35€ per night, with a 5€ breakfast. Strong points: the view, the welcome directly at your boat, the copious breakfast.
• Aelia Studios: Located on the sea side. The modern and cosy studio flats, equipped with a small kitchen with an oven and hotplates are starting from 60€ per night. What I loved: the design and the charm of the apartments, the location. It’s the best value for money in Aegiali!
• Vigla Hotel: Located 10 minutes away from the beach, in Tholaria, above Aegiali. The modern and bright large rooms are starting from 110€per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the copious breakfast, the comfort, the quietness, the great restaurant. If you are looking for a nice hotel with a swimming pool in Amorgos, you should definitely try the Vigla!
• Aegialis Hotel & Spa: Located above Aegiali, this 5-star hotel (the only one in Amorgos) offers comfortable rooms with balcony starting from 140€ per night. Strong points: the big pool, the magnificient view of Aegiali and the sea, the spa, the quietness. It’s simply the best hotel in Amorgos!

10) Naxos (3 days)

Your 3 weeks itinerary now takes you to Naxos, located 1h15 away from Amorgos by ferry boat.

As Naxos is a quite big island, you should really rent your car in advance. You can check the best prices by clicking the button below:

For your 1st day , you will arrive in Hora, the capital. There, you can discover the Portara and Kastro district. After lunch, enjoy one of the West Coast beaches to relax.

On your 2nd day , take your car and visit the picturesque mountain villages: Halki, Filoti and Apiranthos.

If you like hiking , you have to go to the Aria Spring, close to Filoti . From there, a trail goes to the summit of Mount Zeus, the highest point of the Cyclades!

Then, drive to Moutsouna to enjoy one of the East Coast beaches.

For your 3rd and last day in Naxos, you can go on a 1-day boat trip with visits and swimming. Snorkeling equipment is also included. Click the button below for more details about your excursion:

If you want to visit Naxos during your trip to Greece, you should read my article:  The 10 best things to do in Naxos.

If you wish to visit Naxos, the best is to stay in Hora (the capital city) or its surroundings.

• Anatoli Hotel: Located a 10-minute walk from Naxos centre and the beach. The modern rooms with balcony and a view of the pool or the garden are starting from 45€ with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the sauna, the hot tub, and the free transfer from the port and the airport.
• The Saint Vlassis: Located only 700m from the city centre and 500m from the Agios Georgios beach. This hotel offers comfortable and large double rooms, with an outdoor hot tub for some of them! The prices are starting from 60€ per night including breakfast. Strong points: the warm welcome, the good breakfast, the free parking. It’s simply the best value for money in Naxos!
• Xenia Hotel: Located in the centre of Naxos. The modern and well equipped double rooms are starting from 70€ with an 8€ breakfast. Strong points: the location in the city centre (really convenient to take the ferry), the kind staff, the comfortable beds.
• Hotel Grotta: Located only 700m from the Portara and 15 minutes from the beach. Those nice and bright double rooms with balcony are starting from 90€ with breakfast included. A great place for a romantic gateway in Naxos!
• Nissaki Beach Hotel: Located on Agios Georgios beach, the closest to Naxos. The double rooms are very well decorated, and with a balcony. The prices are starting from 220€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: The pool, the location next to the beach, the amazing breakfast, the staff. It’s the best hotel for a luxury stay in Naxos!

11) Paros (3 days)

The last island you will visit during your trip to Greece is Paros, only 40 minutes away from Naxos by boat.

For your 1st day, focus on the Northern part of the island and visit:

• Parikia, the capital. You will love its old town and the Church of Panagia Ekatontapyliani.
• Paros Park, to have a really nice stroll on the 3 marked trails (it takes around 2 hours)
• After your walk, enjoy the beach nearby.
• Naoussa, Paros’ trendy seaside resort, with its luxury boutiques and nice restaurants
• End your day at the beach: you can choose between Siparos Beach, Stefano Beach, Lageri Beach, Santa Maria  Beach or Kolymbithres.

The next day, enjoy the Southern part of Paros.

First, you can drive to the 3 most picturesque and authentic villages of the island: Lefkes, Prodromos and Marpissa. If you prefer walking, you can drive to Lefkes, then take the Byzantine trail that connects the 3 villages.

Have your lunch at the port of Piso Livadi. The restaurants there are famous for their fresh grilled fish dishes.

In the afternoon, you can try one of the beaches nearby, like the Golden Beach, Logaras Beach or Faragas.

For your last day in Paros, book a boat trip around the island and Antiparos.

You can choose between a half-day and a full-day trip. It costs between 40 and 100€.

If you want to know more about the best things to do in Paros, you should read my detailed article:  Visit Paros: the definitive guide.

Where to stay in Paros

In Paros, most of the accommodations are located around Parikia (that’s convenient, because its where the ferries arrive), or in Naoussa, the island’s main seaside resort.

You will find here a selection of the best places to stay in Parikia and Naoussa.

• Margarita: Located only 300m from the church of Parikia, and 400m from the beach. The double rooms with balcony are starting from 37€ per night. Strong points: the kindness and the advice of the owners, the warm welcome.
• Nostos Studios: Located only a minute walk from the beach and 1km from the port. The studios for 2 to 4 people, with a beautiful sea view, are starting from 70€ per night. Strong points: the terrace to admire the sunset, the warm welcome.
• Sunset View Hotel : Located only 10 minutes away from the port. The confortable rooms with balcony are starting from 80€ including breakfast. What I loved: the pool, the free shuttle from the port, the private parking. It’s the best value for money in Paros!
• Akrotiri Hotel: Located 2km from the port of Parikia. The clean and comfortable double rooms with sea view are starting from 100€ per night, with breakfast included. Strong points: the pool, the view, the great breakfast, the kind staff.
• Surfing Beach Village Paros: Located directly on Santa Maria’s beach, a 5-minute drive from Naoussa. The nice bungalows, decorated in Cycladian style are starting from 30€ per night including breakfast. Strong points: the pool, the free transfer to the port, the location, the free deckchairs on the beach.
• Hotel Senia: Located 200m away from the centre of Naoussa, on the seaside. The rooms and suites with private balconies and amazing view are starting from 105€, with breakfast included. What I loved: the 2 pools, the free parking, the great breakfast. It’s the best value for money in Naoussa!
• Paliomylos Spa Hotel: Located 800m away from Naoussa. The bright and large double rooms are starting from 110€ per night, including breakfast. Strong points: the pool, the spa with massages, the decoration, the complete and varied breakfast.
• Villa Bellonia: Located 12 minutes away from the beach and 1km from Naoussa. The lovely rooms with balcony or private terrace are starting from 120€ per night, with breakfast included. What I loved: The pool, the comfort, the amazing breakfast. It’s the best choice for a romantic gateway in Paros!
• Saint Andrea Resort Hotel: Located 1.5km away from Naoussa, this hotel offers luxurious accomodation with private terrace and view of the garden and the sea, starting from 200€ per night. Strong points: the location in front of the sea, the kind staff, the big pool. It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay in Paros!

This 3 weeks itinerary in Greece is already over! It’s now time to fly back home.

From Paros, the fastest way is to return to Santorini, then directly fly back home. The ferry trip takes 2 hours.

You can also go back to Athens. In that case, it will take you 3 hours by ferry boat.

Depending on your flight’s departure time, you can also leave Paros at the end of the day before.

For a 20 days itinerary in Greece, you just have to remove a day on one of the islands.

For a 22 days trip to Greece, you can add a day in Athens and book a 1-day cruise to the Saronic islands.   You can also  add a day in Santorini or in another Greek island.

Now you know how to spend 3 weeks in Greece! If you have any questions about planning your 20, 21 or 22 days itinerary in Greece, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section.

On Voyagetips.com , I give you all my best tips and itineraries to plan your trip to Greece by yourself. (Click here to read all my articles about Greece)

However, if you prefer to book a Greece tour with a travel agency , I recommend you to check the 10 best Greece tours by clicking the button below:

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your trip to Greece, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental.

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Greece? 😊

Greece travel guides

• Buy the Lonely Planet Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
• Buy the DK Eyewitness Greece guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

You’re traveling to Greece ? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Greece : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Greece are listed there.

• The 20 Best Things to do in Greece – The Ultimate Bucket list!
• The 15 Best Things to do in Peloponnese – All the must-see attractions
• Athens: The 20 Best Things to do and see
• Thessaloniki: The 12 best places to visit
• The 15 Best Cyclades Islands to visit – With all the must-see attractions
• Itinerary: 1 week in Greek islands – How to visit the Cyclades in 6, 7 or 8 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Greek islands – The definitive guide to visit the Cyclades in 10 days!
• Itinerary: Greek Island Hopping routes – The best 2 weeks itinerary to visit the Cyclades
• Amorgos: The 8 best places to see
• Andros: The 7 must-see attractions and activities
• Naxos: Top 10 things to do
• Paros: The 10 best places to visit
• Santorini: The definitive guide
• Tinos: The 10 best things to do
• Rhodes: Top 12 best places to visit

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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3 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

2 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

4 Days in Athens: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Discussion 6 comments.

Would the last 3 weeks in March be OK for a 21 day visit to Greece? Using inexpensive car rentals ., meals andhotels what would your suggested holiday cost for two people? Approximately?

Hello David,

For your trip, the part in continental Greece will be ok at the end of March. For the islands however, the ferries service is reduced from October to April (low season), so you will need to check on FerriesinGreece.com if the schedules are ok for you.

About the budget, you should check according to your dates, it’s the easiest. I don’t give a budget in the article as it depends on too many factors: the dates of the trip, the number of people, the type accommodation needed (for some people, “cheap” is a 10 euros dormitory, for others a 50 euros hotel room), the price of the car rentals at that time of the year, the price of the ferries tickets, the exact number of activities you will do, if you eat sandwiches, skip lunch etc…

About food price, you can usually eat a Gyros sandwich for about 3-4 euros, and at the restaurant get a main course for around 10 euros.

Fore the rest, I prefer to give you links to check by yourself, so you can see how much it would cost exactly for your trip!

– You can have a look at the hotels prices at your dates by clicking on the links in the article for every destination, in the “Where to stay in….” sections it’s very simple! Of course, you can then book another accommodation on the website if the ones I talk about don’t suit your needs. – You can see the car rentals prices on Booking.com Cars – And the ferries tickets on FerriesinGreece.com , as mentioned above.

Enjoy your trip to Greece, and if you have other questions, don’t hesitate!

Good morning, afternoon or evening, I do not know where you live! Your presentation is excellent!

I am very interested in your 3 weeks tour in Greece! Is there a way you could send me that itinerary With the suggestions of hotel! To print is a dreadful 30 +/- with half blank pages, adds, etc. I think we would probably spend less time on the islands, which one would you consider avoiding! We are great fans of history and for example spend 2 or 3 nights in places like meteora. My wife worked for many years for the IOC and would off course spend more time near Olympia if needed!

Hello Christian,

Thank you very much! I’m glad that my 3-week itinerary in Greece is helping you to prepare your trip.

Regarding the itinerary, I’m sorry but it’s not possible to send it to you in another format, as I simply don’t have it. It’s only available online. And yes I know about the printing problem, but with this type of blog it’s not really possible. It’s really not meant to be printed but to be viewed in a browser.

If you print it, you won’t be able to access the links for hotel, tour, activity and car bookings. For hotels, just click on the name of the hotel (in orange in the article) you are interested in and you can see the rates for your travel dates and book it.

And what you can do it you want to access this page without internet on your phone, you can save it for offline use.

On Android for example, click on the 3 vertical dots on the top right of your browser window to access the menu. Then click on the little arrow pointing down icon to save an offline version of the page. You will thus be able to access it even if you don’t have internet!

If you want to spend more time in mainland Greece and less on the islands, you can remove either Amorgos or Paros (depending on interests).

Enjoy you 3-week trip to Greece and don’t hesitate if you have any other questions.

Hi I really like this suggested 21 day trip to Greece. Is it possible to do this without renting a car meaning bus or trains? I really don’t like the idea of driving. Would like to enjoy the scenery and sights on a bus or train. We are looking to go end of June 2024 for 3 weeks. Many thanks.

Thank you! I’m glad that my 3-week itinerary in Greece helped you plan your trip.

Car hire is essential for visiting the whole of mainland Greece (from Mycenae to Thessaloniki). If you want to do it by bus (the train is even more complicated) you won’t be able to see everything and you’ll have to cut out a lot of visits.

On the other hand, you don’t need a car to visit Athens, and you can do without one on the Cycladic islands. However, you should bear in mind that the buses do not reach all the beaches for example, and that there is usually only one bus per hour.

Enjoy your (future) stay in Greece!

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3 Weeks in Greece Itinerary

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

Vacationing in Greece is like stepping into a mix of amazing beaches, ancient ruins, and super tasty food. Expect to see incredible places like the Acropolis in Athens, and get ready to be wowed by the beautiful islands, like Santorini with its famous sunsets.

Greek food will be a highlight, with yummy dishes like gyros and fresh seafood. People are friendly and love sharing their culture. The weather’s usually sunny and perfect for exploring or just chilling by the sea.

If you’ve been dreaming of seeing the place where civilisation was born and love history, Athens has so much to offer. It’s where you’ll see the Parthenon standing over. You’ll also get to enjoy the serene sunsets of Santorini and the stunning island of Crete.

The first time I went to Greece was a stopover during my European cruise. I also spent two days there, I fell in love right away and I knew I had to come back.

Spending 3 weeks in Greece means you can see its historical sites around Athens and make your way north and explore Meteora and Thessaloniki. Finally, finish your itinerary by visiting every stunning beach and island down the Mediterranean and Argean Sea.

Greece is one of South Europe’s famous destinations that you must visit at least once. If you want to see many places in a single trip, our 3 weeks in Europe itinerary and 3 weeks in Eastern Europe might be able to help you, especially if you’re on a budget.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO GREECE

It’s not easy to plan a trip to a place you’ve never been. Perhaps the travel information below will help you visualise and start planning and creating an itinerary for your upcoming Greek holiday.

When is the best time to go to Greece

The best time to visit Greece depends on what you seek. Peak season runs from July to August , when the weather is warmest and sun-soaked beaches beckon, but expect crowded attractions and higher prices.

For a blend of pleasant weather and fewer tourists, the shoulder seasons — late April to June and September to early October — is the best time to travel to Greece . During these months, you can enjoy milder temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower accommodation rates.

The r ainy season usually spans from December to February , with colder temperatures and occasional showers, especially on the mainland. While this period sees fewer visitors, it offers a unique perspective of Greece’s landscapes, softer hues, and a calmness contrasting the summer bustle.

Are 3 weeks enough for Greece

Yes, three weeks is a substantial amount of time to explore Greece. While you can’t cover every nook and cranny, it’s sufficient to experience the major highlights: Athens’ historical sites, famous islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete, and some off-the-beaten-path destinations.

The most important thing to remember when planning and writing your 3-week itinerary is to not plan to see more than 5-6 cities. Creating a busy travel plan will be exhausting in real time , and you won’t be able to relax or enjoy your trip.

What to pack

For a trip to Greece, pack lightweight clothing, a swimsuit, sunblock, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, a power adapter, and a small daypack for sightseeing.

There will be lots of walking, especially around Athens, so make sure your walking shoes or sandals are very comfortable. Apart from that, pack your basic items for a 3-week trip . We have a packing list for a summer trip as well.

How to get around

Due to its geography, transportation around Greece combines various options. Getting around Greece offers a blend of modern and traditional transportation methods:

Most Comfortable: Domestic flights and high-speed ferries are comfortable choices for hopping between islands and major cities. For land travel, renting a car gives you the flexibility and comfort to explore at your own pace, especially on the mainland.

Most Affordable: Buses (KTEL) are the most budget-friendly way to travel between towns and regions. Standard ferries can be more affordable than high-speed ones for short island hops.

Around the cities: In cities like Athens, the metro and bus systems are popular for local commutes. Taxis, although more expensive, are also commonly used, especially in areas not serviced by public transport. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Beat are popular to use within the cities of Greece.

Regardless of your preference, Greece offers a range of transportation options that cater to diverse travel needs, ensuring that the country’s treasures are always within reach.

Language and currency

The main language in Greece is Greek . However, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Many Greeks, particularly the younger generation and those working in the tourism industry, have a good grasp of English.

The main currency in Greece is the Euro (€) . While some tourist-oriented businesses might accept USD, it’s not commonly accepted for everyday transactions. Visitors are advised to use Euros for hassle-free payments.

Both cash and bank card payments are popular in Greece . Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and popular tourist destinations. However, carrying some cash in smaller towns or remote islands is advisable as card facilities might be limited.

Average travel cost for 3 weeks in Greece

The average cost per person of vacation for 20 days in Greece is around €2,000, that’s around €100 a day . If you’re visiting during the peak season (summer and winter), accommodation and flight costs are much higher.

Travel costs in Greece can vary widely based on your preferences:

Affordable:

• Accommodation: Budget hostels or guesthouses: €20-40/night.
• Food: Local tavernas or street food: €10-20/day.
• Activities & Transport: Using local buses, free or low-cost attractions: €15-30/day.
• Total: Approximately €45-90/day or €945-1,890 for 3 weeks.
• Accommodation: 3-star hotels or boutique guesthouses: €50-100/night.
• Food: Mix of tavernas, cafes, and occasional dining out: €25-50/day.
• Activities & Transport: Some organized tours, ferries, car rentals: €40-80/day.
• Total: Approximately €115-230/day or €2,415-4,830 for 3 weeks.
• Accommodation: 5-star hotels or luxury villas: €150-400/night.
• Food: Fine dining experiences: €80-150/day.
• Activities & Transport: Private tours, high-speed ferries, domestic flights: €100-300/day.
• Total: Approximately €330-850/day or €6,930-17,850 for 3 weeks.

Remember, these are ballpark figures; actual expenses can vary based on choices and unexpected costs. You should also remember that the price of flying to Greece and back home are not included in these estimated costs.

Greece is a member of the EU and executes the Schengen State visa policy . This means that passport holders in the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, South Korea, Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Argentina, and many places in Latin America, can enter and travel around Greece for 90 days.

EU passport holders have freedom of movement in Greece. At the same time, the nationalities not mentioned above must apply for a Schengen visa at the nearest Greek embassy or consulate.

Other travel tips

When booking your travel arrangements, these travel sites may help you find the best accommodation and most affordable flights and tours for Greece. I sure love these travel services when booking my own travel needs.

PINNED MAP OF MUST-SEE PLACES IN GREECE

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

3 WEEKS IN GREECE ITINERARY

When visiting Greece, this means you have the chance to explore one of the oldest sites in the world. Learn about the birthplace of democracy, the Olympics, Western philosophy, and even alarm clocks and umbrellas.

Once you’re ready to relax and enjoy the beach, go to the south, where many islands are waiting for you for some fun water adventure.

You’ll start your trip in Athens, but it also ends here. But you have 20 days in Greece to enjoy all its pristine islands and historical sites.

If you feel like 3 weeks in Greece is too much time, you can plan a 3-week Southern Europe itinerary instead, where you can visit other countries including Greece.

Package tour

Consider in booking a package tour if you want to skip all the travel planning and arranging. These types of tours also include transportation, food, activities, tickets, accommodations, and sometimes food on the total price.

Day-to-day overview

• Day 1 : Land in Athens, book an airport transfer , get a local sim card (or an esim ), and local currency if needed or pick up your car rental
• Day 2-4: Explore Athens, especially the Acropolis
• Day 5 : Travel from Athens to Metero by bus or driving or book a day trip to Meteora instead
• Day 6-7 : Visit the Meteora monastery
• Day 8 : Get to Thessaloniki from Meteora by bus or driving
• Day 9-10 : Discover Thessaloniki
• Day 11 : Fly to Santorini or Paros from Thessaloniki
• Day 12-13 : Enjoy Santorini or Paros
• Day 14 : Take the ferry to Naxos or Mykonos from Santorini or Paros
• Day 15-16 : Explore Naxos or Mykonos
• Day 17 : Get to Crete from Naxos or Mykonos by air or sea
• Day 18-19 : Discover Crete
• Day 20 : Catch a flight back home, might need to fly back to Athens from Crete

Athens for 5 days

Athens, the birthplace of Western civilization, offers a chance to travel back in time. It’s where ancient landmarks like the Parthenon and the Acropolis stand as a testament to the city’s glorious past.

The streets are full of life, with cool markets, yummy street food, and cafes where you can chill. If you’re looking to buy souvenirs, there are plenty of flea markets to visit. As the heart of Greek philosophy, politics, and arts, Athens provides a deep dive into human heritage.

For hiking enthusiasts, the surrounding hills and mountains, including Mount Hymettus and Philopappou Hill , present trails that lead to panoramic vistas of Athens, juxtaposing the urban landscape with nature’s grandeur.

Athens is the perfect city to start your 3 weeks in Greece trip. Most international flights land here, plus an extensive train, bus, ferry, and plane network leaves Athens.

Things to do in Athens

• Ancient Agora
• Explore Athens via a hop-on, hop-off red bus or yellow bus or an e-bike tour or hop-on or a half-day tour or a full-day tour or the Mythological tour or a biblical tour
• Monastiraki Flea Market
• Temple of Olympian Zeus
• Acropolis – book an afternoon walking tour or Acropolis tour combo with 6 other archaelogical sites
• Mount Lycabettus
• National Archaeological Museum
• Syntagma Square
• Panathenaic Stadium
• Ermou Street
• Go on a cruise – 3 islands featuring Agistri, Moni, and Aegina with lunch and drinks, see the price first
• Monastiraki Square
• The Prison of Socrates
• Lycabettus Hill Funicular
• Day trip – to Delphi or Delphi and Arachova or Cape Sounion and Temple of Poseidon or to Meteora by train
• Philopappos Monument
• Areopagus Hill
• Hellenic Cosmos Cultural Center
• Discover Greek cuisine through a food tour or gourmet walking food tour or this food-tasting tour
• Erechtheion
• Hike to Veikou Grove
• Attend a show at Petra’s Theater
• Statue of Athena
• Hadrian’s Library
• Technopolis City of Athens

Accommodations in Athens

• Affordable: When in Athens Hostel or Athens Quinta or Bedbox Hostel or Mosaikon Glostel or Athens Raise Acropolis Project
• Mid-range: Still Athens or Attalos Hotel or Ederlezi Boutique Hotel
• Luxury: B4B Athens Signature Hotel or Belle Epoque Suites or The Athens Gate Hotel or Colors Hotel Athens

Meteora for 3 days

Meteora, a UNESCO World Heritage site , is a stunning fusion of nature and spirituality. It’s famed for its gravity-defying monasteries perched atop towering rock pillars.

The incredible landscape, formed over millions of years looks like a picture out of painting. As you hike or drive through, the sight of monastic settlements with unique rocks offers an experience that is unique to Meteora.

Kalabaka is the town where Meteora Monastery is located, not many accommodations there. B ut you can also consider Theopetra as your main base when looking for accommodation during your stay.

To reach Meteora, you can take the train from Athens . The journey time is 5 hr and 45 minutes. The bus is more affordable but will take around 6 hours. If you’re driving, it’s a 4-hour drive.

Things to do in Meteora

• Monastery of Great Meteoron
• Varlaam Monastery
• Rousanou Monastery
• St. Stephen’s Monastery
• Holy Trinity Monastery
• St. Nicholas Anapafsas Monastery
• Meteora Rock Climbing
• Kastraki Village
• Meteora Nunneries
• Sunset at Meteora viewpoints
• Hiking the Meteora trails
• Meteora Natural History Museum
• Meteora Mushroom Museum

Accommodations in Meteora

• Affordable: The Holy Rock Hostel or Meteora Central Hostel or Panos House
• Mid-range: Guesthouse Bloutsos Rooms or Guesthouse Kastelia or Rooms Batalogianni or Zosimas House
• Luxury: Alsos House or Hotel Doupiani House or Tsikeli Boutique Hotel

Thessaloniki for 3 days

Thessaloniki is great in Northern Greece, where you can take a break from the tourist trail. As you walk its streets, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman legacies come alive in monuments and churches . The city’s lively waterfront, interesting markets, and art scene make it an awesome place to end your day of exploration.

You can reach Thessaloniki from Meteora by land . The drive will take around 3 hours. You can also take the bus (4 hours) or the train (3 hours).

Things to do in Thessaloniki

• Aristotelous Square
• Thessaloniki City Tour – get a hop-on, hop-off bus pass or a walking tour
• Arch of Galerius
• Ano Poli (Upper Town)
• Thessaloniki Science Center and Technology Museum
• Archaeological Museum of Thessaloniki
• OTE Tower – get your admission ticket with a light meal
• White Tower of Thessaloniki
• Go Sailing – to Shipwreck Bay or to Blue Lagoon
• Thessaloniki Concert Hall
• War Museum of Thessaloniki
• Day trip to Meteora – see the itinerary
• Museum of Byzantine Culture and the The Byzantine Walls
• Church of Agios Dimitrios
• Atatürk’s House
• Day trip to Mount Olympus – with Canyoning trip or with Dion combo
• Lazaristes Monastery
• Day trip to Pozar Thermal Baths and Edessa – read the reviews
• Kalochori Lagoon
• Day trip to Kerkini Lake – check the cost
• Mount Chortiatis
• Olympic Museum Thessaloniki
• Day trip to Vergina and Pella – book the tour
• Modiano Market
• Church of Saint Sophia
• Thessaloniki Waterfront
• Join a food tour – gastronomy and cultural tour or How Greeks Eat tour
• Pasha’s Gardens

Accommodations in Thessaloniki

• Affordable: Zeus is Loose Hostel or Luxury Aristotelous or Nea Metropolis
• Mid-range: V1 Boutique Rooms or Hotel Ilisia
• Luxury: Plaza Hotel and Resorts or Luxury Living Apartments and Spa or Mandrino Hotel

Santorini or Paros for 3 days

These two islands offer very different experiences, but I recommend you choose between them to save some time.

Santorini is ideal for those seeking dramatic landscapes, iconic sunsets, and luxury accommodations. It’s famous for its caldera views, unique volcanic beaches, and romantic ambience. However, it’s often more crowded and touristy. If you’re looking for the “traditional white stone houses”, it’s in Santorini.

On the other hand, Paros is a more laid-back alternative, offering beautiful beaches, traditional villages, and vibrant nightlife . It’s less commercial than Santorini and provides a more authentic Greek island experience.

Choose Santorini if you desire postcard-perfect views, and don’t mind the crowds. Visit one of the best black beaches in Santorini if you’re looking for something unique yet worth a visit.

Paros is a top choice for a relaxed atmosphere with a blend of beach and culture. If you choose Paros, you can also explore the nearby island of Naxos.

Both destinations have direct flights from Thessaloniki. The trip will take around 1hr and 20 minutes.

Things to do in Santorini

• Fira (capital town) – Hike the Fira to Oia Walk
• Travel around Santorini – via a bus tour with Oia sunset or Blue Shade tour or a 6-hour sightseeing tour
• Akrotiri Archaeological Site
• Skaros Rock
• Volcanic Islands – cruise with a hotspring visit or Caldera half-day tour
• Firostefani’s Blue Dome Church
• Pyrgos village
• Volcano and hot springs boat tour
• Catamaran cruise – with a meal and open bar or BBQ and drinks or all-inclusive luxury cruise or cruise with meal, drinks, and transfers
• Megalochori Village
• Castle of Oia
• Fira Theotokopoulos Main Square
• Santorini Old Harbor
• Go scuba diving – dive at Volcanic Caldera
• Fira Scenic Spot
• The Heart of Santorini
• Lost Atlantis Experience – Interactive Museum
• Castello Veneziano
• Do a wine-tasting – wine and tapas or highlights tour with wine-tasting and sunset in Oia
• Caldera Beach
• Akrotiri and Akrotiri Lighthouse
• Attend a Greek Wedding show – get your entry ticket in advance
• Ancient Thera
• Perissa Beach
• Kamari Beach
• Open Air Cinema Kamari
• Santorini Caldera

Things to do in Paros

• Parikia Old Town
• Explore Paros with a bus tour
• Panagia Ekatontapiliani Church
• Naoussa Village
• Kolymbithres Beach
• Kayak and Snorkelling – book the trip with a snack or picnic
• Paros Archaeological Museum
• Book a traditional cooking class or a pasta-making class
• Lefkes Village
• Golden Beach (Chrysi Akti)
• Boat Rental with Self-drive – check the cost
• Valley of the Butterflies
• Horseback riding – there’s an evening tour
• Ancient Marble Quarries
• Boat tour covering Paros, Antiparos, and Despotiko – read the reviews
• Frankish Castle
• Antiparos Island and Cave
• Day trip on a boat to Delos Island and Mykonos from Paros – see the price
• Aliki Beach
• Marble workshop or a watercolor workshop – a perfect way to make a unique souvenir
• Marathi Marble Quarries
• Sailing trip from Antiparos – book the trip with lunch and drinks

Accommodations in Santorini

• Affordable: Gianna Suites or Unique Galini Oia (adults only) or Cyclades Hotel or Kamari Beach Hotel
• Mid-range: Irene City Villas or Alleys All-Suites Hotel & Spa or Caldera Premium Villas
• Luxury: Altana Heritage Suites or Elitoz Suites or The Museum Project Oia or SantAnna Luxury Suites

Accommodations in Paros

• Affordable: Madaky Hotel or Siroco’s Rooms and Studios or Anixis Studios Aliki
• Mid-range: Villa Isabella or Hotel Iris or Apollon Boutique Hotel or Stella Hotel
• Luxury: Hotel Senia or Blue Waves Suites & Apartments or Katerina Mare

Naxos or Mykonos for 3 days

Again, these two islands are ver different. But as mentioned, if you already decided to go to Paros, you can easily get to Naxos from there.

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Santorini or Paros to Naxos or Mykonos. All flights will have to connect through Athens. However, there are many ferries that connect al these islands. So, you probably want to decide based on direct ferries between the islands to make your trip more hassle-free.

Naxos is known for its diverse landscapes . Naxos offers long sandy beaches, ancient ruins, and traditional villages. It’s family-friendly and typically more budget-conscious, providing a genuine Greek island feel.

Mykonos is famed for its vibrant nightlife, cosmopolitan atmosphere, and picturesque town with iconic windmills . It attracts a more upscale, party-centric crowd and is usually pricier.

If you’re after a lively scene with high-end shops and clubs, pick Mykonos. For a more relaxed cultural experience with varied landscapes, opt for Naxos.

Things to do in Naxos

• Amitis Beach
• City tour – full-day bus tour or bus tour with swim stop at Apollonas or Greek Mythology sunset tour or a sunset city walk
• Portara (Temple of Apollo)
• Naxos Old Town (Chora)
• Agios Prokopios Beach
• Sailing Cruise with lunch – read the reviews or a Catamaran Cruise with snorkelling and food/drinks or a Cyclades sailing cruise
• Temple of Demeter
• Kouros Statues
• Agia Anna Beach
• Hike to Cyclades Mount Zas – check the price
• Panagia Drossiani Church
• Halki Village
• Do a marble carving – look at the itinerary
• Melanes Olive Presses and Ancient Quarries
• Venetian Castle of Naxos
• Temple of Apollo – Portara
• Join a cooking class or food tour – half-day at Basiliko Family Tavern or a cultural food tour
• Agios Georgios Beach
• Temple of Dionysus, Yria
• Maragkas Beach
• Mikri Vigla Beach
• Go wine-tasting – a food tour with wine or wine-tasting at Saint Anna
• Zeus’ Childhood Cave
• Alyko Beach
• Tower of Ayia

Things to do in Mykonos

• Mykonos Town (Chora)
• Explore Mykonos’ main attractions through a – sightseeing-guided tour or this one with a local guide or Old Town walking tour or a half-day tour
• Windmills of Kato Mili
• Paraportiani Church
• Super Paradise Beach
• Delos Island Archaeological Site – read the tour reviews or an evening guided tour or just pay for the transfer only
• Panagia Paraportiani
• Matoyianni Street
• Cavo Paradiso Club
• Ano Mera Monastery
• Mykonos Folklore Museum
• Rhenia Island – book a combo Delos Island and Rhenia boat tour or this one
• Agios Sostis Beach
• Armenistis Lighthouse
• Discover Greek food and wine – check this wine-tasting tour or Souvlaki cooking class with a local
• Boni’s Windmill
• Paralia Ftelias
• Agios Stefanos Beach
• Go on a cruise – a sunset cruise with drinks
• Fokos Beach
• Paralia Kalo Livadi
• Paradise Beach
• Gyzi Castle
• View of Alefkandra (Little Venice)

Accommodations in Naxos

• Affordable: Iliovasilema or Infinity Apartments or Burgos Barrio
• Mid-range: Naxos Illusion Nikos Verikokos or Anatoli Hotel or Ippokampos Beachfront or Annio Studios
• Luxury: Portara Seaside Luxury Suites or Argo Boutique Hotel or Hotel Grotta

Accommodations in Mykonos

• Affordable: Island Mykonos Suites or Pension Alexandra or Elena Hotel or Villa Varnali Boutique
• Mid-range: Sunset Paraportiani Rooms or Mykonos View Hotel or Hotel Adonis
• Luxury: Semeli Hotel or Yalos Hotel or Harmony Boutique Hotel

Crete 3 days

3 weeks in Greece must include the beautiful island of Crete. It’s the largest Greek island , where beautiful beaches, mountains, ancient history such as the Minoan ruins, and delicious food come together.

Its diverse landscapes range from the pink sands of Elafonissi to the rocky Samaria Gorge. Exploring ancient ruins like the Palace of Knossos takes you back to the times of Greek myths and legends.

Crete is also a fantastic way to end your trip because you can simply relax on the beach or do watersports you enjoy. From here, there are plenty of direct flights to Athens if you’re catching your flight home from there.

There are three airports in Crete ; Heraklion, Chania, and Sitia. Heraklion and Chani are the two most popular, but neither has direct flights from Mykonos, Paros, or Santorini. However, there are direct ferries to reach Crete.

Things to do in Crete

• Balos Lagoon
• Chania Old Harbor
• Phaistos Minoan Palace
• Discover Crete wineries and olive farms through this food tour or this cooking class
• Spinalonga Island
• Vai Palm Beach
• Arkadi Monastery
• Enjoy Crete and go sightseeing with – this full-day tour
• Lake Kournas
• Preveli Beach and Monastery
• Old Venetian Port of Chania
• White Mountains Forest Preserve
• Knossos – visit the museums with audio guides
• Museum Of Typography
• Dia Island Cruise from Heraklion – either this sailing tour or this cruise
• Heraklion Archaeological Museum
• Heraklion Lighthouse – get a hop-on, hop-off bus pass for Heraklion
• Natural History Museum of Crete
• Samaria George – join a day hike from Chania or from Rethymno
• Elafonissi Beach
• Day trip to Santorini or Day trip to Elafonisi Island from Chania
• Rethymnon Old Town
• Boat trip to Spinalonga from Agios Nikolaos – read the reviews
• Dive in the Matala Caves
• Quad-bike safari trip from Rethymno – look at the price first or this one that picks up from other parts of Crete

Accommodations in Crete

• Affordable: So Young Hostel or Intra Muros Hostel or Alexis Hotel or Corinna Mare
• Mid-range: Notus Chania Crete or Hyperion City Hotel & Spa or Spilia Village Hotel & Villas
• Luxury: Seaside A Lifestyle Resort (adults only) or Creta Maris Resort or Manili Boutique Suites & Villas or Peninsula Resort & Spa

MUST-TRY GREEK DISHES AND DRINKS

Greek cuisine is easily one of the best and healthiest in the world. For this reason alone, you must try at least 4-5 dishes during your visit (recommend more!). See which one you like the most, and maybe you’ll even bring a Greek brand or wine back home.

• Moussaka: Layered eggplant, potato, and minced meat topped with béchamel sauce.
• Souvlaki: Skewered and grilled meat, often served with pita bread.
• Horiatiki: Traditional Greek salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, feta cheese, and olive oil.
• Spanakopita: Spinach pie made with phyllo dough, spinach, and feta cheese.
• Dolmades: Stuffed grape leaves, usually filled with rice and herbs.
• Pastitsio: Greek pasta baked with layered pasta, minced meat, and creamy béchamel sauce.
• Tzatziki: Creamy yoghurt-based dip with cucumbers, garlic, and dill.
• Baklava: Sweet pastry made of layers of phyllo, filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with syrup or honey.
• Galaktoboureko: Custard-filled phyllo pastry soaked in syrup.
• Loukoumades: Golden fried dough balls drizzled with honey and cinnamon.
• Kadaifi: Shredded wheat dessert soaked in syrup, often with nuts.
• Ouzo: Anise-flavored aperitif, often diluted with water.
• Retsina: Resinated wine with a distinctive pine flavour.
• Metaxa: Greek brandy, smooth and fruity.

SUMMARY OF 3 WEEKS IN GREECE ITINERARY

Three weeks in Greece is a voyage through time, flavours, and breathtaking landscapes. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the cerulean waters of the islands, every moment is etched with wonder. When creating your itinerary, do not overload it and design one that is relaxing for you.

This 3 weeks in Greece trip is not just a vacation. It’s a soulful experience, a harmonious blend of past and present, tradition and innovation. I hope that this itinerary has helped you visualise what a holiday in Greece looks like.

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3 Weeks in Greece: Ultimate 20-21 Day Itinerary

3 weeks in Greece: What to do and see?

Do you want   to visit  Greece  in three weeks ? Excellent choice of destination!

In order to help you organize your stay, I have prepared a  3-week Greece itinerary for you to give you a complete tour of the archaeological sites, the Greek islands and the  must-see places of interest  in the country.

Starting from  mainland Greece , discover  Athens , Peloponnese ,  Meteora   and  Thessaloniki . Then, for the second part of your vacation, fly to  the Cyclades  with a circuit to  Santorini ,    Amorgos ,   Naxos  and  Paros .

In addition to things to do, also find our  selection of the best accommodation according to your budget  for each stage of your trip.

Thanks to our  advice and tips, organizing your 20-21-22 day Greece itinerary will be super easy!

So,  what to do and see in Greece in 3 weeks?

Table of Contents

Day 1-2: Athens

To  start your 20 or 21 days Greece itinerary, you will land at Athens  airport .

Visiting Athens is very good on foot,  but you will necessarily have to  rent a car from the next stage . It’s up to you whether you prefer to  rent it as soon as you arrive,  or  pick it up at the airport  when you leave Athens for the Peloponnese.

Then reach your hotel in Athens , either  by car  (for those who have rented it directly) or:

• By taxi  : €40
• By bus:  line X95 to reach the central square of Athens, Syntagma Square. But watch out for traffic jams!
• By metro:  line 3 (the blue one). Fastest option to reach the city center.
• By shuttle , if your hotel offers this service.

On the program for this first day in Athens (in order of visit):

• The Acropolis Museum  to discover the history of the most famous place in the city –  Skip the line ticket to buy here! 
• The Acropolis of Athens , listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the essential visit during this three-week stay in Greece.
• The Plaka district,  for its picturesque side
• The Ancient Agora  and its museum
• The Monastiraki district,   nicknamed the “souk” of Athens for its many shops selling everything and nothing
• The hill of Philopappos  to admire the sunset
• And if you like to party, go to the  Gazi district.

Spend the night in Athens.

The next day, continue this 20-21 day itinerary in Greece, with a  stroll through Athens   to visit the other monuments.

To do and see on this second day:

• The Panatheian Stadium  which hosted sporting events long before our modern Olympics
• Hadrian’s Gate
• The Temple of Zeus
• The Zappéion park and the national garden
• Syntagma Square  where the changing of the guard takes place every hour
• Ermou Street,  ideal for shopping
• The National Archaeological Museum of Athens
• Lycabettus Hill,  the perfect vantage point from which to admire the sunset over the Acropolis.

Spend another night in Athens.

All the details on the places not to be missed in Athens are in our article:  What to visit in Athens?

Tips for your Greece itinerary:

A combined ticket at 30€  allows you to  visit the Acropolis, the Ancient Agora  as well as several other sites: the Library of Hadrian, the Temple of Zeus, the Roman Agora and the Lykeion.

It is possible to buy it in advance on the internet in order to  avoid queuing at the entrance to each of the sites  mentioned above. It is also  valid for 5 days.

Click to buy this Acropolis + archaeological sites combined skip-the-line ticket.

And to make the most of your visit to Athens, I recommend that you  opt for the all-in-one pass: the Athens City Pass!

It includes:

• The aforementioned  combined Acropolis ticket
• Skip-the-line entrance ticket to the Acropolis Museum
• An audio guide for your visit to Athens
• A 10% discount on all other attractions in Athens

To book it, it’s here.

Want to know everything about the Acropolis? In this case, I recommend that you  opt for a guided tour , which also allows you to skip the line.

Accommodation in Athens

• Bedbox Hostel:   Hostel located 300 meters from Monastiraki Square and 700 meters from the Acropolis. Bed in dormitory from 18€ per night. Most: the location, the super friendly staff, the cleanliness.
• Evripides Hotel:   Located 400 meters from Ermou Street and 500 from Monastiraki. Room with a simple and comfortable decor from €70 per night, breakfast included. The pluses: the magnificent view of the Acropolis from the rooftop, the location for visiting Athens on foot, the welcome.  It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio. 
• Amalia Hotel:   Located on Syntagma Square, just opposite the National Garden. Modern and spacious double room, some with a balcony overlooking the garden, from €155, breakfast included. Most: the comfort, the very hearty breakfast, the geographical location in the center.
• Wyndham Grand Athens:   5 star hotel located 1 km from Ermou Street and 1.5 km from the Acropolis. Design and elegant double room from €200, breakfast at €16. Most: the swimming pool on the roof, the panoramic view of the Acropolis, the Spa, the metro station just opposite.
• Electra Metropolis:    5 star hotel located just 200 meters from Syntagma Square and 600 from the Acropolis. Spacious and comfortable double room from €270, breakfast included. The pluses: the ideal geographical location, the view of the Acropolis from the roof terrace, the quality of the meals, the swimming pool.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Athens. 

Day 3: Mycenae / Epidaurus / Nafplion

A three-week Greece itinerary  would not be complete without a part dedicated to the  discovery of the Peloponnese .

For this first day in the region, I suggest you visit 3 places:

• The Corinth Canal , 1 hour from Athens. Small photo stop necessary to admire this channel dug in the rock in order to avoid the boats a detour of nearly 400 km. If you are lucky enough that a boat passes at this time, you will see that it is very narrow and the maneuver is delicate.
• Mycenae,  40 minutes from the canal. Former home of King Agamemnon, it is one of the oldest sites in Greece. To do if you like to wander among the old stones because there is not much left of the royal palace or the tombs. Otherwise, go directly to the next site.
• Epidaurus,  45 minutes by car from Mycenae. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ancient theatre, whose acoustics are exceptional. It is one of the major sites of the Peloponnese.

At the end of the day, reach your last stop:  the pretty town of Nauplia,  by the sea. Allow about  30 minutes from Epidaurus. 

Stroll through  the old town , climb to  the fortress of Acronauplia  for the view, and finish with a swim at  the pebble beach of Arvanitia.

Spend the night in Nafplio.

And for an exceptional experience during your stay in Greece, you can also  go bungee jumping at the Corinth Canal! 

Accommodation in Nafplio

• Agamemnon Hotel:  Located in the old town of Nafplion, opposite the Bourdzi fortress. Double room, some with a balcony overlooking the sea from €55, breakfast included. Most: the location, the view, the warm welcome.
• Amymone and Adiandi Hotel:   Located 5 minutes from the beach, in the old town. Elegant and tastefully decorated double room from €75, breakfast included. Most: the delicious breakfast, the location on a pedestrian street, the original and nice decor.  It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio in Nafplio!
• Amalia Nafplio Hotel:  Located on the outskirts of the city, about 2 km from the centre. Luxurious and comfortable double room from €110, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the free private parking, the calm, the varied breakfast.
• Nafplia Palace Hotel & Villas:  This 5-star hotel welcomes you 5 minutes walk from the beach and 15 minutes walk from the center. The establishment offers spacious and modern rooms with balcony overlooking the fort and the sea from 260€. For the luxury version, you can also sleep in a villa with a private pool from €570. Most: the swimming pool, the view, the quality of the restaurant and the breakfast.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Nafplio!

Day 4: Fortress of Palamidi / Monemvasia

Today, continuation of this trip of three weeks in Greece and   in the Peloponnese,   by the visit of  the fortress of Palamidi.

You can  reach it by car from Nafplion . The fortress is really big and  well laid out . You can enjoy many  views of the city and the sea .  Allow 2 hours  to go around.

Then get back in the car to go to   Monemvasia   (3 hours drive).

Built on the sides of cliffs  and invisible from the outside thanks to its surrounding wall, the village actually hides pretty  cobbled streets  lined with  shops and restaurants . The central square also houses  a church  and  a cathedral.

From there, you can  take the path that leads to the very top of the mountain , to the fortress. The panorama is definitely worth the little effort!

After Monemvassia,  take the road back to Mistra  (about 1h30). It’s quite a journey during the day but it’s the best for the next day’s program.

Tips for your Greece itinerary: To visit Monemvasia, park your car in the  car park after the dyke  and  take the shuttle  (€1) to reach the entrance to the village.

Accommodation in Mistra

• Byzantion Hotel  :  Located next to the main square of Mistra. Comfortable room with a view of the archaeological site from €55, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the view, the private car park.
• Mazaraki Guesthouse:  Located very close to the Mistra site in the heart of nature. Spacious and warm suite with balcony from €115, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the setting, the neat decor, the breakfast served in the room.
• Arxontiko Taygeti:  This guest house is located just 5 km from the city center of Mistras. Duplex suite with kitchenette, lounge area and balcony with view of the mountains and the Mistra site from €160, breakfast included. Most: the calm, the excellent welcome, the environment, the fridge filled for breakfast.
• Mystras Grand Palace Resort:  This 5-star hotel is located 5 minutes from Mistra by car. The brand new establishment offers rooms with stone walls and exposed beams with terrace, from €180, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the jacuzzi, the sauna, the comfort of the rooms, the tranquillity.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Mistra.

Day 5: Mistra / Olympia

During the fourth stage  of this twenty-day stay in Greece, I suggest that you start the day by visiting the   site of Mistra  (or Mystras).

Former capital of the Byzantine Empire , listed as a  UNESCO World Heritage Site , you can admire  several churches, monasteries and convents  as well as  a fortress   in Mistra  .

Divided into 2,  an upper part and a lower part , at the entrance of which there is a parking lot, you can  choose to start on one side or the other . The less tiring is all the same to  park at the top  to visit the place where the fortress is, then to  go down by car  and to  visit the second part.

Remember to  keep your entrance ticket,  you will be asked for it.

Mistra is, in my opinion, one of the   most beautiful places to see in the Peloponnese,  during your 3-week road trip in Greece. Count about  3 hours of visit.

Then join the other mythical site of the day:   Olympia  (2 hours away).

The best is to  visit Mistra early in the morning , to  arrive towards Olympia around 3/4 p.m.  and have time to  visit the museum and the archaeological site.

Start with the museum  to discover the objects and statues found in Olympia then  continue with the visit of the site  itself. The 2 are side by side.

Olympia having served to  host the Olympic Games  between the year 776 and the year 393 BC, you can walk through  the foundations of the temples, the sports facilities and the gymnasium.

If it’s not too late at the end of your visit to Olympia, be sure to drop by the  Historical Museum of the Olympic Games . You will learn all the details of the  tests practiced during the games and their history . It would be a shame not to go there,  the entrance is included in the ticket for the Olympia site  (price: 12€).

Spent the night in Olympia.

Accommodation in Olympia

• Leonidaion Guesthouse:  Located 10 minutes walk from the site of Olympia. Spacious and comfortable double room from €55 per night, breakfast included. Most: free private parking, walking access to the site, location in a street above the main so quiet.  It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio in Olympia!
• Amalia Hotel Olympia:  Located at the entrance to the city. Spacious and bright room with bay window and balcony or terrace from €80, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the very good and varied breakfast, the welcoming staff, fruit basket and water offered.
• Arty Grand Hotel:   Located on top of a hill overlooking the city. This 5-star hotel offers modern double rooms with lounge area and balcony from €95 per night, breakfast included. Most: the huge outdoor pool, the indoor pool, the setting.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Olympia.

Day 6: Delphi

Continuation of this three-week itinerary in Greece. Today,  after these 3 days in the Peloponnese, I suggest you  go to Delphi.

Count no less than 3h15 by car  from Olympia, but fortunately the landscapes and the towns crossed are quite nice.

I recommend you stop at:

• Kalogria Sandhill:  a large sandy beach surrounded by dunes and pine forest. There is a nice walk to do.
• Gianiskari Beach,  a pretty sandy beach which is reached by a track. Not touristy and quite quiet.
• Nafpaktos:  a pretty town by the sea with 2 large beaches, bars and a small port. Ideal for the lunch break. There is also a castle at the top of the city which offers a beautiful view of the bay and up to the Charilaos Trikoupio bridge (entrance at 2€).
• Galadixi  is another small village by the sea with a walk to do along the port and also in the pine forest. There are cafes and restaurants.
• Between Nafpaktos and Galidaxi,  you will see that the seaside road is really pretty and there are several beaches for swimming.

Delphi is famous because it was there that people came to consult  the famous oracles delivered by the Pythia . These, whether correctly interpreted or not, have strongly influenced the destiny of the country. At the time  Delphi was considered the center of the world.

You can now  visit the archaeological site and the museum  located next to it for 12€. Discover the  Temple of Apollo, the theatre, the stadium  and above all admire  the view of the mountains and the surrounding area. 

Visiting Delphi is truly one of the  must-do’s of this 3 week Greece itinerary.

I recommend that you  visit the archaeological site of Delphi at the end of the day , the light is really magnificent, and that gives you time to stop on the road.

For dinner, head to Taverna Vakhos .   With a slightly different and more upscale menu than the other restaurants, for the same price, this place stands out. Remember to book.

Accommodation in Delphi

• Fedriades Delphi Hotel:  Located 10 minutes walk from the ancient site of Delphi. Modern and warm double room with balcony from €55, breakfast at €8. Most: the panoramic view, the quality of the bedding, the warm welcome.
• Kastalia Boutique Hotel:  Located just 5 minutes from the city of Delphi. Spacious and modern double room from €62, breakfast included. Most: the terrace for breakfast, the excellent welcome, the location.  It is our favorite for its price / performance ratio in Delphi. 
• Nidimos Hotel:  Located 1 km from the archaeological site. Bright and comfortable double room with balcony from €65, breakfast €10. Most: the rich and varied breakfast, the free parking under the hotel, the beautiful view.
• Amalia Hotel Delphi  :  Located 800 meters from the archaeological site. Modern and bright double room with large bay windows offering a view of the sea from €90, breakfast included. Most: the large swimming pool, the view, the setting.

Day 7: Meteora

And we continue this 3-week Greece itinerary, by the place that I preferred to see:  Meteora .

Right in the center of Greece , it is located  quite far from Athens  (5 hours) or  Thessaloniki  (2h40) but you will not regret for a moment having integrated it into your itinerary!

I advise you to  leave fairly early from Delphi  to arrive at Meteora around noon. You can  stop for lunch in Kalambaka  and take the opportunity to  go to the tourist office of the city  to get the map of the monasteries.

Meteora  is a  unique geological site  with huge rock formations. And because that was not enough,  monasteries were built on top  of these rocks!

At the time, the monks who lived there had to borrow cages  drawn above the void  to join them. Today I assure you, you can  visit 6 of them  by taking stairs!

Admission for each costs 3€ . If you only have to see one from the inside,  choose the Great Meteor Monastery , it is the largest and most impressive.

I found  the place really splendid  and it is the perfect place for lovers of beautiful photos.

Spend the night in one of the hotels that I suggest below.

Accommodation in Meteora

• Pyrgos Adrachti:  Located in the village of Kastraki, 5 minutes drive from the monasteries. Double room with a view of Meteora from €60, breakfast €7.50. Most: the magnificent view, the calm, the hearty breakfast.
• Meteora Hotel at Kastraki:  Located in Kastraki. Modern and bright double room from €80 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the location in the countryside, the spectacular view.  It is the ideal hotel where to rest during your 3 week stay in Greece.
• Hotel Meteoritis:   Located in Kastraki. Spacious and comfortable double room with bacon overlooking Meteora, from 125€, breakfast included. Most: the location, the pleasant staff, the private parking, the varied and hearty breakfast.

Day 8: Thessaloniki

For this stage, I suggest you  join Thessaloniki .

It’s not the most interesting program of this three-week tour in Greece, but it will allow you to  fly to Santorini , avoiding having to return to Athens.

From Meteora, you will take   about 2h40.

Depending on the time of your flight to Santorini, you may have time for  a short stopover in Thessaloniki.

In this case, I invite you to read my article dedicated to the city. You will find an  example of an itinerary on foot, to follow  to see the main places of interest:  Visit Thessaloniki in 1 day .  

Then head to the airport  to drop off your rental car and  embark on the second part of your three-week  Greece itinerary.

Flying  from Thessaloniki to Santorini  saves you time. Flights do n’t necessarily cost more than from Athens , nor a ferry ride (which will take you much longer!).

Day 9-11: Santorini

For the next stage of your 3-week stay in Greece, I suggest you visit  the Cyclades islands.  And what better than to start with the most famous of all:  Santorini.

Arrived by plane from Thessaloniki, pick up your  rental car for 3 days  and then head to your hotel.

Here is my sample  itinerary for visiting the island.

The first day , stroll to   Fira  and  Oia , the  2 “postcard” villages of Santorini.

To be done in this order:

• Visit of Fira  in the morning.
• Possibility to do  a very nice hike from Fira to Oia  in the early afternoon (about 1h30-2h, you can also go to Oia by car)
• Visit Oia  in the late afternoon and be there  for the sunset.

On the second day , opt for a  boat trip  to discover  the still active volcano of Néa Kaméni  and  bathe in the hot springs .

And for  the luxury and romantic version on a catamaran , it’s here.

For the third day , I propose a road trip around the island:

• Go see the other villages of   Pyrgos, Megalohori and Emporio.
• Travel through  2 archaeological sites: Akrotiri  (often compared to Pompeii,  Italy  ) and   Ancient Thera.
• Wine lovers can also  book a small-group wine tour  of Santorini’s estates with tasting included.  Book here!
• End of the day relaxing on one of the beaches . The  Red Beach  or the  Black Beach  are the most famous and popular.  Monolithos beach  is more family friendly.

For  the complete guide to the island of Santorini , it’s in our article:  What to see in Santorini in 3 days.  

Accommodation in Santorini

Top hotels in oia.

• Aethrio Aparthotel:   Located in Oia, just a few steps from the main square. Double room, studios or apartments with balcony for the most part, from €160, breakfast included. Most: the large swimming pool, the spacious rooms, the roof terrace to admire the sunset.  It is one of the cheapest establishments in Oia and its price/performance ratio is excellent!
• Caldera Premium Villas:    Located in the center of Oia. The establishment offers troglodyte suites with sea and caldera views from €290 per night, breakfast included. Most: the pool, the decor, the view, the location.
• Theodora Suites Apartment:   Located in the heart of Oia. Studio with kitchenette, fridge, private terrace and outdoor or indoor jacuzzi from €350, breakfast included. Most: the jacuzzi, the breathtaking view, the friendliness of the staff.
• Andronis Boutique Hotel:   5 star hotel located in Oia. You will be welcomed in suites with a view of the Caldera, private balcony and jacuzzi or private swimming pool, from 800€, breakfast included. Most: the idyllic setting, the calm.  This is our recommendation for a 3 week romantic trip to Greece!
• Katikies Hotel – The Leading Hotels of the World:   Luxury hotel in Oia, the establishment offers rooms and suites with a view and spa bath from €1,000, breakfast included. The pluses: the swimming pools, the jacuzzis, the splendid view, the catering.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Santorini!

Top hotels in Fira

• Galatia Villas:   Located 10 minutes from Fira town center. Fairly basic but pleasant double room from 80€ per night. Most: the jacuzzi on the roof, the warm welcome, the price/performance ratio for Santorini.
• Lilium Santorini Villa:   Located at the edge of the caldera. Elegant and modern room with sea view from €315, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the exceptional location, the warm welcome.
• Cosmopolitan Suites – Small Luxury Hotels of the World:    Located in the heart of Fira. Charming room decorated in the style of the Cyclades with private balcony from 550€, breakfast included. The pluses: the infinity pool overlooking the cliff, the services of a luxury hotel.  This is the perfect hotel for a romantic getaway in Santorini.
• Aria Suites:   Located in Fira, this high standard hotel offers only 6 luxury suites and villas fully equipped with CD player, DVD and laptop, from 700€. Most: the beautiful location, the pool, the availability of staff.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay with complete privacy in Fira!

The other best accommodations on the island of Santorini

• Memories Beach Hotel:    Located next to Monolithos beach. Comfortable and modern room from €65 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the calm, the lovely staff.
• Rose Suites:   Located in Vourvoulos, 4 km from Fira. Very well equipped and tastefully decorated studios and apartments, furnished with kitchenette and private terrace from €75 per night. Most: the swimming pool, the calm, the equipment, the decor, the fridge filled with everything you need for breakfast.  It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio!
• Hippocampus Hotel:   Located in Kamari, 50 meters from the beach. Room with balcony overlooking the pool or garden from €85 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the proximity to the beach, the setting and the friendly staff.
• Meltemi Village Hotel:    Located in Perissa, 5 minutes from the black beach. Rooms and suites with jacuzzi from €100 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pools, the fitness center, the good breakfast.  An excellent choice where to sleep by the sea during your 20-21-22 day trip to Greece.

Day 12-14: Amorgos

During this holiday in Greece, you will also have  time to visit other islands of the Cyclades.

I suggest you start with Amorgos, just 1 hour by ferry from Santorini.

Attention, Amorogs has  2 ports, in Katapola and Aegiali . Check where you are coming from and where you are leaving from.

As you  cannot cross from Santorini with your rental car  (it is forbidden), you will have to  rent a new one on each island.  Amorgos being a small island, you will not be able to reserve your car in advance and will have to rent it on site.

For this first day,  discover part of the island by car:

• Katapola , le port principal
• The capital  Hora  and its mills
• Lunch break in one of the typical taverns of the village
• The   Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa
• The cove of Agia Ana,   near the monastery
• Kalotaritissa,  a great beach for a swimming break. Before or after, go see  the wreck of the Big Blue.

For the next 2 days , go  hiking  on the many marked paths of the island. They are listed on  the official Amorgos website.

Amorgos is  really the perfect place  to practice this activity! Most routes will also allow you to spend some  time at the beach.

Read our article on Amorgos to know all the visits to do:  Visiting Amorgos: the ultimate guide.  

Accommodation in Amorgos

To visit Amorgos, I advise you to sleep in one of the 2 main towns:  Katapola or Aegiali.  I recommend you choose between the 2  depending on your departure port  when you leave Amorgos.

To help you, I have prepared a  selection of the best hotels to sleep in Amorgos.

The best hotels in Katapola

• Amorgion Hotel:  Located 1 km from the port of Katapola and 8 minutes walk from the beach. Double room with private balcony and some views of the Aegean Sea from €50 per night, breakfast €8. Most: the swimming pool, the free private car park, the warm welcome.  This is the only hotel with a swimming pool in Katapola! 
• Pension Barbara:  Located 5 minutes from the beach and right next to the port of Katapola. Studio equipped with sink and fridge and having a balcony from 55€. Most: cleanliness, calm, very nice owner.
• Diasino Studios Apartment:    Located near the port. Modern and recent studio or apartment with terrace or balcony from €60, breakfast €5. Most: the calm, the situation, all the restaurants nearby.  It is our favorite for its price/performance ratio.
• Hotel Landeris:  Located 3 minutes from the beach and a few meters from the port. Rustic style room, studio or apartment with wooden furniture, from €60, breakfast included. The pluses: the friendly owners who speak perfect French, the delicious breakfast, the good advice.
• Hotel Minoa:  Located 100 meters from the beach and next to the port. Bright and spacious room with balcony from €80 per night, breakfast included. Most: the friendliness of the staff, the exceptional breakfast.

Best hotels in Aegiali

• Pelagos:  Located 3 minutes from the beach and 100 meters from the port of Aegiali. Double room with balcony overlooking the sea from €35, breakfast €5. Most: the view, the reception at the boat, the hearty breakfast.
• Aelia Studios Apartment:  Located right by the beach. Modern and warm studio with kitchenette with oven and hotplates from €60 per night. Most: the decoration, the charm of the establishment, the location.  It is our favorite for its price-performance ratio in Aegiali.
• Vigla Hotel:  Located 10 minutes from the beach, in the village above Aegiali, in Tholaria. Modern, bright and spacious room from €110, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the hearty breakfast, the comfort, the calm, the good restaurant.  If you are looking for a nice hotel with a swimming pool to sleep in Amorgos, the Vigla is an excellent choice!
• Aegialis Hotel & Spa:   Located on the heights of Aegiali. This 5-star hotel (the only one on the island) offers comfortable rooms with balcony from €140 per night. Most: the huge swimming pool, the magnificent view of Aegiali and the sea, the Spa, the tranquility of the place.

Day 15-17: Naxos

To visit Greece in 3 weeks,  now head to Naxos , 1h15 from Amorgos by ferry.

For Naxos, as it is a big island, I strongly recommend that you  book a rental car in advance.

You will arrive in  Hora, the capital  and will be able to discover  the Portara  and the  Kastro district . In the afternoon, take advantage  of one of the beaches on the west coast  to relax.

The second day , a short drive to visit the mountain villages of the island:  Halki, Filoti and Apiranthos  are on the program!

If you like hiking , I advise you to do the one  starting from the sources of Aria,  towards Filoti. It allows  to reach the summit of Mount Zeus , the highest peak of the Cyclades.

Then join Moutsouna  by car to enjoy one of the  beaches on the east coast.

On the last day in Naxos , take a   cruise around the island with swimming stops . Diving equipment is even included in the price.

You want to know more about Naxos, it’s in our article:  The complete guide to the island of Naxos.

Accommodation in Naxos

The most practical way to visit Naxos is to sleep in Hora or in the surrounding area.

• Anatoli Hotel:  Located 10 minutes walk from the center of Naxos and the beach. Modern double room with balcony and view of the garden or swimming pool from €45, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the sauna, the jacuzzi, free transfer from or to the port and the airport.
• The Saint Vlassis:  Located 700 meters from the town center and 500 meters from the beach of Agios Georgios. Comfortable and spacious double room with for some an outdoor jacuzzi from 60€ per night, breakfast included. Most: the warm welcome, the good breakfast, the free parking.  It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio in Naxos.
• Xenia Hotel:   Located in the center of Naxos. Modern and well-equipped double room from €70, breakfast at €8. Most: the location in the heart of the city, convenient for taking the ferry, the friendliness of the staff, the comfortable bed.
• Hotel Grotta:  Located just 700 meters from the Portara and 15 minutes from the beach. Pleasant and bright double room with balcony from €90, breakfast included. The pluses: the swimming pool, the view of the city, the comfort, the breakfast with local and homemade products, the Spa area.  An excellent choice where to sleep in Naxos as a couple.
• Nissaki Beach Hotel:  Located on the edge of Agios Georgios beach, the closest to Naxos. Warm and tastefully decorated double room with balcony, from €220 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the geographical location next to the beach, the excellent breakfast, the professional person.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Naxos.

Day 18-20: Paros

Continue this 3-week tour of Greece via  Paros,  just  40 minutes by ferry from Naxos.

On this first day,  focus on the northern part of the island,  with the program:

• Parikia , the capital and its old town where  the basilica of Panagia Ekatontapyliani  is located .
• The park of Paros   to take a nice walk along 3 marked trails (about 2 hours walk)
• After the walk, cool off on the beach next to the park
• Naoussa , the chic seaside resort of Paros with its trendy shops and restaurants
• End of the day at the beach. Choose between   Siparos Beach, Stefano Beach, Lageri Beach, Santa Maria Beach or Kolymbithres.

The next day , it left for  the    south side of the island.

Get in the car  and reach  the 3 picturesque and authentic villages  of the island:   Lefkes, Prodromos and Marpissa.  Or if you prefer to walk,  go to Lefkes first , then take  the Byzantine path  that connects them.

For lunch , I recommend that you go to the  port of Pisso Livadi , whose restaurants are renowned for their  grilled fresh fish dish.

In the afternoon,  you can test  one of the nearby beaches  such as  Golden Beach,  Logaras Beach  or  Faragas Beach.

For the last day in Paros, I suggest a  boat trip around the island and Antiparos.

Half day or full day,  the choice is yours. Between 40 to 100€ depending on the duration and the type of boat.

For all the details on visiting Paros in 3 days, find the information in our article:  What to do and see in Paros?

Accommodation in Paros

In Paros, accommodation is mainly  concentrated around Parikia  (practical because this is where the ferries arrive and depart)  or Naoussa,  the island’s main seaside resort.

I have therefore prepared a  selection of the best accommodation for you to sleep in Paros  according to these 2 cities.

The best hotels in Parikia

• Margarita:   Located 300 meters from the Basilica of Parikia and 400 meters from the beach. Double room with balcony from €37. Most: the kindness and the advice of the managers, the warm atmosphere.
• Nostos Studios Apartment:  Located 1 minute walk from the beach and 1 km from the port. Studio that can accommodate up to people and with a view of the sea from 70€. Most: the roof terrace to admire the sunset, the family hotel, the warm welcome.
• Sunset View Hotel  :  Located less than 10 minutes walk from the port. Comfortable room with balcony overlooking the sea from €80, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the free shuttle from or to the port, the free private car park.  It is our favorite for its price / performance ratio in Paros. 
• Akrotiri Hotel:  Located 2 km from the port of Parikia. Clean and comfortable double room with sea view from €100 per night, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the view, the good breakfast, the caring staff.

The best hotels in Naoussa

• Surfing Beach Village Paros:   Located directly on the beach of Santa Maria, 5 minutes drive from Naoussa. Very nice bungalow in the Cycladic style from 30€ per night, breakfast included. The pluses: the swimming pool, the free transfer to the port, the setting, the free deckchairs on the beach.
• Hotel Senia:  Located 200 meters from the center of Naoussa, by the sea. Room and suite with private balcony and stunning views from €105, breakfast included. The pluses: the 2 swimming pools, the free parking, the very good breakfast.  It is our favorite for its performance / price ratio.
• Paliomylos Spa Hotel:  Located 800 meters from Naoussa. Spacious and bright double room from €110 per night, breakfast included. The pluses: the swimming pool, the Spa and the massages, the decor, the full and varied breakfast.
• Villa Bellonia:   12 minutes from the beach and 1 km from Naoussa. Tastefully decorated room with private balcony or terrace from €120, breakfast included. Most: the swimming pool, the comfort, the excellent breakfast.  The best choice for a romantic getaway on Paros Island!
• Saint Andrea Resort Hotel:  1.5 km from Naoussa, the hotel offers luxurious accommodation with private covered terrace and garden or sea view from 200€ per night. Most: the location facing the sea, the pleasant staff, the large swimming pool.  This is our recommendation for a luxury stay in Paros. 

Day 21: Return to Santorini or Athens

You have arrived at the  end of this three-week stay in Greece , you will have to think about  taking your return flight.

From Paros , the quickest way is to  return to Santorini  and fly from there. The ferry trip takes 2 hours.

You can also  return to Athens . Allow 3 hours by ferry to Paros-Athens.

Depending on the time of your flight, you can also leave Paros the day before, at the end of the day.

For a  20-day  Greece itinerary,  remove a day on one of the islands.

For a  22-day tour in Greece , you can  add a day in Athens to take a  cruise to the Saronic Islands,  for example, or  add a day in Santorini or another Greek island.

Do not hesitate to give us your opinion and suggestions on our 20-21-22 day itinerary in Greece!

Are you going to Greece?  Read also

Discover all our articles on Greece : all articles on Greece are listed here.

• Itinerary: 3 or 4 days in Greece  – Guide to visit Athens, Peloponnese and Delphi!
• Itinerary: 6, 7 or 8 days in Greece  – The guide to visiting Athens and the Peloponnese in one week
• Itinerary: One month in Greece  – Guide to visit mainland Greece, Cyclades and Rhodes in 1 month!
• Itinerary: 4-5 days in Crete   – Itinerary to prepare a short stay in East or West Crete
• Itinerary: A week in Crete  – The perfect itinerary to visit West Crete
• Itinerary: 7 days in Crete  – The itinerary to visit East Crete in 1 week
• 3 Days in Athens: Itinerary with Top 18 Things to Do
• 3 Days in Santorini  – The best 72h itinerary on the island!
• Paros: Top 10 things to do and see

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3 Week Greece Itinerary + Greek Island Travel Tips

June 27, 2023 by Ashley Mayes Leave a Comment

Need tips for planning a Greece itinerary? I'm sharing our three-week-long Greece itinerary plus general Greek island travel tips that you should know.

I shared quite a bit of our Greece trip over on Instagram as we were traveling and got so many questions from how to plan, to what to expect, what we thought and what we would do differently. I wanted to round up those questions and give tips in today's post.

Let's start with the Greece itinerary first. After the itinerary and budget, I'm sharing ways to save money on your Greek island trip and also travel tips that you'll want to bookmark.

We traveled for 23 total days; so a few days over 3 weeks. The trip went great but I would make a few changes to the itinerary so I wanted to give you those changes first before I get to the nitty gritty details.

*When I booked our trip, I split exploring Athens into one day at the beginning (after we flew in) and two days at the end of our trip (before we flew back the states). I will say that we were exhausted at the end of our trip and I'm going to write the Greece itinerary for you that includes what we would do if we did it again (have three days in Athens at the beginning) and just a hotel stay at the end by the airport to be able to grab your flight home. I will also say that we did the islands in the reverse order but I'd recommend going off the itinerary below.

In my Milos trip post, I explain in detail why I'd save Milos for the last stop. Make sure to check that post out for all the great Milos Greece must-do's!

3 Weeks Greece Itinerary

A 3 week Greece itinerary, including the mainland and a few Greek islands

• Days 1 -3: Explore Athens
• Day 4: Ferry to Mykonos
• Days 5-8: Explore Mykonos
• Day 9: Ferry to Santorini
• Days 10-12: Explore Santorini
• Day 13: Ferry to Milos
• Days 14-21: Explore Milos
• Day 22: Ferry to Athens
• Day 23: Fly home

3 Days in Athens

We had some partial days and one full day in Athens to explore. The best thing we did was pre-book the private guided tour of the Acropolis and Museum . It was GREAT! I'd highly recommend booking this exact one. We did the tour in the evening too, which was nice because the cruise ships had left for the day and it was cooler. I read reviews on that being a good time to book and it really was.

The other thing that we really liked (it was really hot though, so always have a hat with you in Athens during the summer) was visiting the Panathenaic stadium . This is the stadium of the first modern Olympic Games. You can get a headset when you enter and the self-paced tour lasts about an hour. It was cool to see the stadium and to hear about the history of the Olympics. You can get entry tickets on site and it was easy. It'd recommend fitting this in when you are near the Acropolis, as it's like a twenty minute walk from that area.

Athens to Mykonos Ferry

Have a taxi or Uber driver drop you off at the Athens port (let them know which port you are headed to because there are two of them). They can drop you off at the actual ferry dock (they are numbered so it makes it easy). The Athens port is the biggest of all the ports but the process is simple. We used etickets and followed the check-in instructions sent by the ferry 24 hours in advance. I'd recommend using Ferryhopper to book your tickets and I'd also recommend upgrading to the fast ferries so you can get plenty of time to explore on your ferry days.

We pre-booked a car for Mykonos through Anemos and they were at the port waiting for us with a sign with our name on it (this is very common).

5 Days in Mykonos

There's a ton of beaches to check out in Mykonos but we didn't see many of them because Luke and Greyson spent four days taking kitesurfing lessons at Kite Mykonos . Your Greece itinerary will look a lot different from ours in Mykonos if you aren't kitesurfing.

I'm not doing a Mykonos must-do post because most of our time was spent at the kiteboarding beach, but I wanted to share a few things that we did.

We stayed in an airbnb in Mykonos town right on the cutest street. Every day we walked the streets and soaked in the beauty. It was so beautiful. We shopped and ate and explored and had a great time. We got baked goods and coffee every day from this great little bakery called il forno di Gerasimo (a 3 min walk from our rental).

Kiki's Tavern and swimming at the beach below were fun. The tavern had great hospitality and the little beach below was so picturesque.

On one of my daily strolls while getting lost on the streets of Mykonos, I found a mosaic studio. The artist was in and I was so excited to be able to book and take a mosaic class . It's something that I've always wanted to do. Would highly recommend doing this there if you get the chance. Luke and I did it without Greyson but it would have been great with kids, too.

We did take the ferry to Delos and do a tour there. Honestly, it wasn't a highlight for us but maybe we were having an off day. Lots of people seem to really love it.

There were a lot of other beaches to explore and tours you could take, but we kept it simple on Mykonos.

Mykonos to Santorini Ferry

The fast ferry between Mykonos and Santorini was under three hours. Santorini definitely has the most stressful port situation because of the location of being at sea level when everything else is at the top of the caldera. Two ferries came in at once when we were there which caused a MAJOR traffic jam and would have been VERY stressful as a non-local driver. We were glad that we pre-arranged a driver with our airbnb in Santorini.

Getting rental cars outside of the port was easy, so I'd recommend a pre-booked transfer in Santorini and then I would let your hotel or host help you with the rental car (you can even have this planned with them in advance) if you want a rental.

4 Days in Santorini

At first look, Santorini was beautiful, but also busy. It took a bit for us to warm up to it and find the times that we could explore Oia without people. I came to really love it and shared what we did, would recommend, where we stayed and more in the Oia, Santorini blog post .

Definitely read my longer post on Santorini, but honestly, we felt like four days was the perfect amount of time on that island. If you aren't planning on doing added activities like we did, then your Greece itinerary for Santorini should probably be a bit shorter.

Santorini to Milos Ferry

The fast ferry between Santorini and Milos was under three hours as well. The port is nice in Milos and there are rental cars that you can walk to. I talked more about this and who we went with in my Milos post.

9 Days in Milos

We absolutely loved our time in Milos. For some people, nine days would be a lot, but I think it all depends on what you are wanting out of a vacation. Check out my Milos travel post for where we stayed, what we did and what we'd recommend.

Milos to Athens Ferry

Athens to Milos ferry was also about three hours but it was really windy. Not sure if this is common, but this was by far our roughest ferry ride. Most others were really nice.

Upon arrival in the Athens port, there were taxi lines that you could just jump in and grab a taxi. It wasn't super clearly defined but there seemed to be enough taxi's for everyone. You could call a taxi or Uber here, too. I wouldn't go to the effort of arranging a pickup here, just figure it out when you get to the Athens port. Have Euro's though as some Taxi's don't take credit card payments. And, if you are headed into Athens downtown, you'll probably need about 70 euros to get there.

How much does a Greece trip cost?

I had lots of questions about how much this trip was and how to budget for it. There's a few things that I want to share before I share numbers.

One thing is that we splurge on accommodations. I prefer accommodations that have two bedrooms and are willing to splurge on ones that are lovely or have a unique feature. If you are more flexible in your accommodations, you could DEFINITELY cut the cost of the trip in the accommodations section in half, at least (and still have amazing lodging options).

The second thing is that we live in the middle of the US with a tiny airport so airline fees for our specific location are always insanely high. I'm sure you can find flights for much cheaper. The flights were the biggest expense for us.

The third thing is that we save a bit of money here and there by watching our food expenses. I'll talk more about that in a bit.

Budget for 3 Weeks In Greece for 3 People

• 4 Ferries for 3 people: $1214 (I did upgrade ferry seats to business class on two transfers)
• Car Rentals: $900
• Airfare: *Depends on where you are flying from
• Mykonos Airbnb for 5 nights: $1669
• Milos Hotel and Airbnb: $4200
• Santorini Airbnb for 4 nights: $3637
• Athens lodging for 3 nights: $1k
• Meals : Approximately $75 per day.*
• Other expenses (bottled water, tipping, taxi, etc.): $20 per day
• Excursions: Not going to tally.**

*To save money on meals, we went to the grocery store when we arrived in each location. Most of the time, we ate dinner at home because dinner was the most expensive meal to buy out. Each host also provided quite a few items for breakfast/snacks (and also wine/beer) so we made use of that as well.

**I'm not going to tally the price of excursions because the ones we choose were so particular to us. Spending 4 days kitesurfing in Mykonos was VERY expensive. Doing the olive oil tour in Santorini was cheap especially since it included a decent amount of food. Anyways, I'll share the excursions that we loved and you can go from there.

What I'd do differently to save money if I wanted to...

Book different lodging for santorini.

If I wanted to do this exact trip but save money on it, I'd choose to stay somewhere different in Santorini. The airbnb we stayed at was nice and we enjoyed the view but it was really expensive. Also, Oia is quite picturesque but you are on the main tourism/cruise path if you stay there.

This airbnb looks nice and is under $200 per night. You'd need a car for this one because it's located near our favorite village but it's further away from the main tourists cities (still just 15 minutes drive from them).

Book different lodging for Athens

We stayed at two places in Athens. Both were fine, but the last place was a resort on the beach, and I'd just go for a no frills place next time. You can usually find really affordable but nice hotels in bigger cities, so this would be another place I'd save money.

This airbnb is just over $100 per night and looks to be in an incredible location as well as gets great reviews.

Rent a car for less days

You definitely don't have to have a car for Santorini (you can do the bus system) but we chose one because of our scuba and horse excursion. We did save money by only getting 24 hour rentals there (this is really easy to do in non-peak season and is readily available near the tourist locations). We could have saved more money by not booking a car for the entirety of the Milos trip. In Pollonia, there are car rentals so you could get away with booking for a few days and then plan on hanging out around town for a day or two.

Greece Travel Tips + Other Things to Know

Transportation in athens and on the islands.

We found transportation to be pretty straightforward in Greece.

To do a trip similar to ours, you are going to be using:

• Taxi, Uber and FREENOW
• Ferry Service

Taxi, Uber and FREENOW used in Athens

In Athens, we used Uber mostly but they also have a similar platform to Uber called FREENOW which we also used. The hotels will arrange pickups/transfers for you as well, if needed. But, I'd just plan on using Uber while you are there.

Tips for renting a car on the Greek islands

Driving on the islands didn't require an international drivers license (which Luke got just in case). We just had to show a US drivers license to get the car. Most cars are standards. So, if you want/need an automatic, then you'll want to reserve in advance. You'll be parallel parking often so you'll definitely need to be comfortable with that.

Roads are very narrow so I'd recommend going for a tiny vehicle. And, on the islands, there isn't a lot of following "rules" for driving. It can make things confusing for sure, but just do your best. There were two helpful driving tips that we picked up on the islands. One is that you need to know that the person in a roundabout doesn't have the right away. That's unusual compared to anywhere else we've been. The second is that if you are at an intersection with no signs (this happened all the time), the person on your right has the right away. Driving on the islands could definitely be stressful at times but just take it slow and you'll be able to do it.

Prebook Ferries using Ferryhopper

I'd recommend using Ferryhopper to book your tickets and I'd also recommend upgrading to the fast ferries so you can get plenty of time to explore on your ferry days. Getting on and off the ferries didn't require security and it feels like a mad rush because they are trying to MOVE the ferries in/out fast but it wasn't stressful. Be about 20 minutes early so you know where you are going and have your tickets downloaded to your phone. Other than that, you are good.

How to pay in Greece

Visa and Mastercard are both widely accepted. We had trouble using our American Express anywhere. There are lots of ATM's. I'd recommend getting money out at the airport as not all taxis have credit card capabilities (that's why we love using a ride share app like Uber). You can have the option of letting the ATM or your bank set the exchange fee and it's generally best to have your personal bank do this.

When you want to tip, you have to let the person who is running your credit card know BEFORE they run it. In Greece, you don't have the option to write in a tip afterwards so just ask "can I add a tip on the card?" before you run the card.

Best time to travel to Greece

We heard a few times that the best time to visit Greece was in late September. Apparently the tourist season has died down then, the weather is slightly cooler and the water temperature has warmed throughout the summer.

We visited in late May / mid-June and had a good time. The water temperature was chilly but, other than that, the weather was nice and the tourist season hadn't picked up completely yet.

The busiest months to visit Greece are apparently late June to end of August.

Soak in Greek culture

Each island has it's own vibe. Read about Milos and Santorini for more details on those. Mykonos is considered the "party town" and I just caught glimpses of that but could see it. The restaurants are BEAUITFUL at night and the women and men working at them wear club/formal clothes in a lot of them. If you plan to enjoy that island, then I'd recommend taking some nice dresses and skimpy clothing definitely works! Ha. You could also just take sundresses too but, honestly, it looked fun to dress up and enjoy the ambiance.

On another note, it was consistent that shops and restaurants closed during the hottest parts of the day (2-4). Learn to be more Greek and take a break during these times. Dinner is served really late, so you have time to relax before you go out.

It was also consistent to see Greek people engage and want to engage with you if you were open and welcoming towards it. People aren't on their phones. There seemed to be a welcoming and opening spirit that I felt over and over again.

Island water and bathroom situation

Water is scarce on the islands and they try to conserve it. It's easily found and enjoyed through bottled water but you can't drink the tap water. Everywhere serves bottled water and it's typically like 1-2 euros for a large bottle at the mini markets, etc.

We typically take reusable water bottles when we travel but I'd save some luggage space and only take one because you'll be buying water all the time. Everyone just carries the large plastic water bottles around as they explore.

The plumbing is pickier on the islands as well and you can't flush any toilet paper. I had never experienced this before so it was a tad weird to me the first day or two but it was fine. In every place we were at there was a trash can (typically with a foot pedal) right next to the toilet for the paper.

Eating in Greece

Foods to try.

Of course, you'll need to try all the gyros but, honestly, we loved other foods better than those. The appetizers won the show for us in most locations. Order the toasted or fried feta and bread, we loved that. Especially if they had sesame crusted feta with honey. Yum! Also, dakos (not all are created equal), kataifi (basically, similar to baklava but has "hairy" phyllo shreds and it's amazing), watermelon pie (only at Alestra in Milos), Greek salad (order this everywhere), cappuccino freddo (cold coffee with fresh whipped milk on top - ask for it sweet as it's not very sweet when they serve it sweet), fresh fish, etc.

Restaurant tips for Greece

Dinner typically doesn't really start until 8 and lasts pretty late. You'll want to make reservations everywhere if you want to eat dinner out (at a fashionable time). Restaurants typically only take one reservation per table per night because it's a slower meal that's meant to be enjoyed. You can find restaurants that start to serve around 6pm but they are the minority. You can always find street food earlier.

Expect nicer restaurants to set bread on the table but just FYI, if you eat it, you will be charged for a bread basket. We ate it every time, but it's not free of charge.

Also, often restaurants will bring out a "tasting" dessert free of charge at the end of the meal.

Lastly, you'll have to ask for the bill. Eating is a slower event in Greece, so expect that with service and paying. It's not them being rude, it's a cultural difference.

Beaches in Greece

Greece beaches are way different than what we are used to (we typically go to Hawaii). Because it's the sea, you don't have to worry about tides but you also don't have a ton of sealife.

From what we experienced, people tend to sunbathe and relax on the beach more than play in the water.

The sea is colder than the oceans we've been to and way saltier. We had never experienced a sea before so I wanted to share some about this.

What to pack for Greece

Here's a quick list on what to pack for Greece.

• Linen everything
• Nicer "date night" outfits for dinner.*
• Jacket or sweater for the cool breeze at night
• Clothesline and soap to wash your clothing
• Swimsuits and coverups
• Keen shoes (if exploring/hiking in Milos, you'll enjoy these because the lava rock is the sharpest stuff I've ever seen)

*I packed one summer black dress and Luke wore some trouser shorts and linen shirts when we went to dinner. We didn't plan on eating at any place that was nicer and we chose to eat most of our dinners at home BUT if we wanted to go out, I would have wanted nicer clothing (especially in Mykonos and Santorini).

Greece Itinerary recap

Whew, that was a lot of information. I hope it was helpful!

As people have asked me our thoughts, I've tried to really reflect on them and share honestly. I will say that I adored the Greek culture and people. I loved getting to experience the streets, shops, restaurants and just the visual of some these places.

The sea was the most beautiful color and I loved seeing that change depending on the light. The beaches (to me) weren't as pretty or as enjoyable as the ocean, but the culture of the beach scene was so fascinating and enjoyable on it's own.

Overall, we had a lovely time in Greece and, although we probably won't ever go back (it's just too far and there are too many other places to visit in the world), I know I'll carry some of the experiences with me forever.

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Ultimate 3-Week Greece Itinerary

• Acropolis of Athens
• Corinth Canal
• Cyclade Islands
• Ionian Islands

Greece is a destination for everyone: backpackers, jetsetters, families, couples, honeymooners, retirees… everyone! Another amazing thing about visiting Greece is that you can have the more diverse trip of your life! You can visit ruins in the morning, relax on a black sand beach in the afternoon, then have the best dining of your life to finish with a night of party and fun. Can you ask for more? Yes! You could do all of this at one of the cheapest cost in Europe.

Since Greece has a large number of islands, with more than 1,400, Greece has more coastline than any other country in Europe and it is one of the best place in the world to go island-hopping. You can choose from the semitropical lushness of the Ionian and Northeastern Aegean Islands to the bare, sunbaked rocks of the Cyclades. You can get your own sailboat cruise, or you can travel by ferry. Every island has a ferry service of some sort, ranging from the giant ‘superferries’ that work the major routes to the small, ageing open ferries that chug around the backwaters.

Or why not island-hop swimming! The sea is idyllic – aquamarine and flat as a pancake – making it perfect for long distance swimming. The Cyclades are a good place to start: densely packed so crossings are not too arduous, yet little visited.

The best island for parties? Mykonos, with Paradise Beach and Super Paradise Beach is the party hotspot full of travellers and backpackers. You’re more on the romantic or relaxation side? Santorini is the perfect destination. With its red and black sand beaches, its domed blue roofs, and the most stunning sunsets at Oia.

I have to admit though that the most beautiful beaches we have seen on our trip were on Rhodes. Lindos Beach is breathtaking, and Anthony Quinn Beach with its small bay with refreshing crystal green waters is awesome.

Now if it’s shopping and fashion you look for, besides the obvious Athens, Thessaloniki, Greece’s second city, has style, with plenty of fashionable shops and salons, and has also great nightlife.

For the epicurean inside you, Greece is an exceptional destination. You can share delicious mezedhes (starters) with a glass of ouzo on the rocks. Or you can enjoy a novel selection of dishes made from local produce in a delightful ambience. I traveled in Greece for 3 weeks, ate constantly and didn’t even put on weight! Their cuisine is so healthy… please indulge!

And then there are the sites that make Greece a travel destination that cannot be overlooked, since it has such a long history. Much of Western philosophy finds its basis in the thoughts and teachings of Greek philosophers as Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle.

You HAVE to visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon! Athens exists because of the Acropolis, one of the most important ancient monument in Europe. It’s visible from almost everywhere in the city, and it is so impressive!

Another unique site in the world is Meteora with its monasteries, precariously perched atop the sheer natural sandstone rock pillars, are spectacular to behold. Once used successfully as a refuge by hermit monks seeking a retreat from expanding Turkish occupation, they now open their doors to travellers – and James Bond in the 007 movie For Your Eyes Only.

You could also ascent Mount Olympus, the home of the Greek gods, in a 2 day trek to reach the 2917m Mytikas peak, through verdant forests and past striking views!

Other impressive historical sites are worth the journey, such as Olympia, home of the ancient Olympic Games. Delphi, navel of the gods and home to the famous oracle, influenced Alexander the Great. Epidaurus’ theatre is known for its exceptional acoustics: you can easily hear from anywhere in the theatre the sound of a match struck at center-stage.

From my travel through Greece, I learned tons of interesting things that made me grow as an individual. A lot of our culture and history come from that astonishing country! And, seriously, who could resist such island charm?

Here’s my ultimate 3-week Greece itinerary, as an inspiration for your next vacation!

ULTIMATE 3-WEEK GREECE ITINERARY

• Day 1 to 3: Visit of the Acropole and the Parthenon; walk around Plaka (the old historical neighborhood of Athens, clustered around the northern and eastern slopes of the Acropolis, and incorporating labyrinthine streets and neoclassical architecture); Lonely Planet walking tour of Athens.
• Day 4 to 7: Tour of classical historic sites of Greece: Corinth, Epidaurus, Nafplion, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphi, Meteora.
• Day 8 to 11: Ferry from Piraeus (port of Athens) to Mykonos; we explored the island of Mykonos by scooter: Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach, shopping, eating delicious greek cuisine…
• Day 12 to 16: Ferry to Santorini; we explored the island of Santorini by scooter: watching the sunset in Oia, Red Beach with its red sand, Kamari Beach, Perivolos Beach with its black sand, fine dining, good white wine, donkey rides…
• Day 17 to 21: Overnight ferry to Rhodes; we explored the island of Rhodes by scooter: Rhodes’ Old town, Rhodes port with huge yachts, Lindos and its Acropolis, Lindos Beach, Anthony Quinn Beach, shooting photos in the clearest aquamarine water we have ever seen, still eating exquisite meals… hhmmm I miss the best Mediterranean cuisine I have ever tasted!
• Day 22: Back to Athens, and then back home. Snif snif… it’s over!

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3 Weeks Greek Island Hopping Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: September 1, 2023

Planning a Greece island hopping itinerary? While many people might plan a 10 or 14 day Greece itinerary, if you have time I would really recommend spending longer to get the most out of your Greek island hopping trip.

Although there are many popular Greek island hopping routes, spending longer on your trip means you can visit some of the quieter, less popular islands such as Paxos or Naxos which are so beautiful and with a much more relaxing pace than islands like Mykonos or Santorini.

So here is my 3 week Greece island-hopping guide to plan a Greece trip to remember!

The ultimate island hopping Greece itinerary:

Week 1:Cyclades Islands

Day 1-3: Mykonos

Day 3-6: Santorini

Day 6-7: Naxos

Week 2:Dodecanese Islands

Day 8-11: Rhodes

Day 11-13: Kos

Day 13-14: Symi

Week 3: Ionian Islands

Day 15-17: Corfu

Day 17-18: Paxos

Day 18-21: Kefalonia

Of course, this Greek Island hopping itinerary is a guide and you will find when you travel to the Greek islands that the ferries can be unpredictable, so allow space in your itinerary for being flexible!

Did You Get Travel Insurance Yet? The Insurance companies I recommend are  Hey Mondo and Safety Wing Hey Mondo  is great if you are looking for a great value flexible policy. They offer single-trip cover, annual multi-trip cover, and long-term travel cover. Safety Wing  is great value, with monthly coverage starting at $45.08. It’s super easy to use, and it just renews each month. I currently use them as they offer me free cover for my son as part of my policy. Read my full  travel insurance post  here, where I go into detail about all companies. 

Arriving in Greece

To start your Greek island hopping holidays, I suggest you fly into Athens and take a ferry to the first island, Mykonos.  Athens is an international airport with flights and connections all over the world and the city also has several ports, making it the easiest starting point to get to the Greek islands.

Using the Greek Islands Pass

There is a Greek Islands pass provided by Interrail that allows you to book your ferries around the Greek islands using one ticket and it also includes the ferry from Italy to Greece if that’s how you choose to start your trip.

The pass has two options:

• 4 travel days within one month – £77
• 6 travel days within one month – £163

This 3 week Greece itinerary takes 8 ferries, so a Greece island pass wouldn’t cover them all, however it does make things easier by just having one ticket, so if you’re planning a 10 day Greece itinerary or 14 days, it could work well. Just bear in mind that it can only be used for Attica Group ferries – which could be restrictive depending on the islands you choose to visit.

Greece island hopping itinerary: 3 weeks

Week 1: cyclades islands, day 1-3 island hopping greece – mykonos.

After arriving in Athens , take a taxi or bus to Rafina port where the Mykonos ferry departs several times a day. One way tickets cost around €38 and the ferry ride takes 4-5 hours, or 3 hours if you take the high speed ferry which costs more.

At the start of your Greece trip , spend three days exploring Mykonos . With charming streets, beautiful beaches and plenty of restaurants and nightlife, there’s a reason this island is so popular.

Chora, aka Mykonos Town, is one of the best preserved historic towns on the Greek islands and it’s perfect for photography lovers or a romantic getaway. Don’t miss the iconic white windmills of Mykonos and enjoy a cocktail right on the water in the charming Little Venice area which is full of bars and restaurants. 

Although Mykonos isn’t the nearest island to Santorini , the high speed ferries run between Mykonos and Santorini several times a day for the next leg of your island hopping Greece itinerary.

Day 3-6 – Travel from Mykonos to Santorini

4 days on Santorini is a great amount of time to see the stunning Caldera views, visit the beaches and wineries and do some shopping in the labyrinth of charming streets in Thira and Oia .

See the blue domes of Thira, visit the famous Red Sand Beach, and see the “Greek Pompeii” Akrotiri village. Don’t miss one of the famous vineyards and wineries on the island, Sigalas winery or Argyros vineyard are both boutique wineries with grapevines dating back centuries. There are also plenty of charming villages on the island to explore if you’d like to escape the crowds in Oia.

Day 6-7: Hop over to Naxos

One of the easiest Greece islands hopping routes: simply take a short 40 minute ferry to nearby Naxos island and spend two days soaking in the island’s beaches and historic sites.

The ancient ruins at the Temple of Apollo offer spectacular views of the island. After exploring Naxos old town, relax on the white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters at Agios Prokopios Beach or Mikri Vigla Beach.

Week 2: Dodecanese Islands

Day 8-11: spend 4 days in rhodes.

Ferries from Naxos to Rhodes can take up to 12 hours so you might also want to check flight availability depending on your schedule.

Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese Islands, so allow four days to arrive and explore the island which is full of ancient ruins, as well as the historic Old Town area. The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, Lindos Acropolis and the Acropolis of Rhodes are all must-visit sites. 

Tsambika Beach and Pefkos Beac h are some of the nicest sandy beaches on the island, while Traganou and Jordan Beach are beautiful but are pebble beaches – so don’t forget your water shoes !

Day 11-13: See the ancient ruins of Kos

Ferries from Rhodes to Kos take around 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the ancient sites, beaches and thermal springs in Kos for three days.

Kos Town is packed full of ancient ruins and historic Greek and Roman landmarks. Neratzia Castle, the Roman Odeon of Kos , the Agora ruins and Cara Romana are all worth visiting. But don’t miss the hot springs at Therma Beach and Agios Fokas for a unique experience!

Day 13-14: Go off the beaten track to Symi island

Hop over from Kos to Symi island and enjoy the colourful harbour town of Symi backed by rolling hills. Panormitis Monastery and the surrounding beaches close to Symi town are the best way to spend your 2 days on Symi.

Day 15-17: Fly to Corfu

Take a flight to Corfu and spend three days there. Corfu’s architecture and heritage are Venetian, so you’ll see Venetian influences in the stunning Old Town, the two town fortresses and many villages across the island. 

With fortresses, palaces and museums to explore, there’s also plenty for outdoor lovers from famous beaches like Porto Timoni to hiking trails, including the popular Mount Stravros loop.

Many Greek islands allow you to rent a boat without needing a licence, so why not hire a boat to cruise around the island at your own pace, swim in bays and see the beautiful villages from the water.

You’ll also find lots of foodie opportunities in Corfu , from olive oil tasting and honey bee tours to food tours of the best foodie spots in old town Corfu.

Day 17-18: Relax in Paxos for 2 days

Ferries from Corfu to Paxos take 2.5 hours and give you plenty of time to slow down and enjoy a slower pace on the laidback island of Paxos, one of a tiny group of islands south of Corfu.

Explore the main town of Gaios, see the Tripitos Arch, go out on a boat trip or just enjoy the beaches at Erimitis Bay and Kipiadi Beach.

Day 18-21: 4 days in Kefalonia

Take a ferry to the biggest of the Ionian Islands – Kefalonia and spend your last four days exploring the spectacular rugged landscapes, beautiful beaches and historic attractions. 

The natural landscape is one of the biggest draws to Kefalonia and you can visit caves on the island: Drogarati Cave and Melissani Cave. But don’t miss the stunning beaches with vibrant blue bays and white sand. Myrtos Beach , Antisamos Beach , Avithos Beach and Makris Gialos Beach are just some of the spectacular beaches in Kefalonia.

Kefalonia is also great for hiking, with mountain trails like the Ridge and Summit trails of Mount Ainos or Mount Enos summit hike.

Greece itinerary: 14 days

If you’re only planning a 2 weeks in Greece itinerary, I recommend picking two of the 3 weeks’ Greece itinerary I’ve outlined here and focus on the Ionian and Cyclades islands or the Cyclades and Dodecanese Islands rather than trying to cram three weeks in Greece into two.

Greece 7-10 day itinerary

For a shorter trip, like a 7 day Greece itinerary or a Greece 10 days itinerary, I suggest picking one week from the itinerary above to focus on. The Ionian Islands of Corfu and Kefalonia are the biggest and have a lot more to do so you could easily extend your stay.

Or enjoy a slower pace in the Cyclades and spend longer in famous spots like Santorini and Mykonos .

Looking for hotel s to stay? Check out these options!

Cyclades islands.

Cyclades Hotel

Agapi Villas

Albatros Hotel

Dodecanese Islands

Pefki Islands

Eagles Nest

Stella View Studios

Ionian Islands

Philarmonic Orchestra Apartment by Konnect

Mythos apts rentit

Final thoughts: island hopping Greece routes

Planning island hopping holidays to Greece can feel overwhelming with the number of ferry journeys to coordinate but it’s so worth the time you spend planning it and I hope you enjoy your Greece island hopping as much as I did!

Pin For Later

Saturday 30th of September 2023

Where do you fly to Corfu from? If you’re in Symi do you get the ferry back to Athen?

© 2023 Claire’s Itchy Feet  

Enchanting Three Week Island Tour of Greece

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• Trip Overview

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This 3-week Greek Islands tour captures the allure and romance for which this region is known. From Santorini and Mykonos, to Milos and Naxos, experience some of the most idyllic island havens the world has to offer. Enjoy a cycling tour through the countryside, venture on a scuba diving excursion, and sail along the southern coast of Mykonos.

Customizable Itinerary

Santorini – hike, sail, and sightsee.

When you land on Santorini, a private driver will greet and escort you to your luxurious accommodation. Upon your arrival, you will have some time to relax and settle in to your new surroundings after your long flight. When you are ready, your private guide will lead you on an evening hike along Santorini’s caldera rim. The following day will find you setting sail for the Cyclades Islands, where you will sightsee, swim, snorkel. A kayaking excursion will begin your next day and will be followed by a food tour.

What's Included:

Santorini – Oceanside Yoga

This morning, you can take it as slow as you want. You can choose to have breakfast before or after your seaside yoga session this morning. Afterward, your guide will lead you on an e-bike tour through Santorini’s countryside. Your tour will conclude with an incredible sunset. Your final day in Santorini will be spent on a private yacht. The day will be yours to curate, and you will have a private captain and crew at your service.

Naxos – Naxos’ Island Treasures

After breakfast this morning, you will make your way to Naxos. Here, you will visit a marble rock quarry to learn about how this ancient natural material is collected and refined into a precious commodity. You will also partake in a marble sculpting class. The next day, you will sail to Delos to traverse the island’s preserved ruins. Afterward, you can spend the rest of the day on Delos before returning to Naxos. The following day, you will sail along the shores of Naxos on a catamaran. This sail will allow you to visit Koufonisia, Schoinousa, and Iraklia.

Day  9 - 11

Paros – Paros, Parikia, and Lefkes

This morning, you will venture to Paros, where you will have some time to settle in to your new surroundings before embarking on a walking tour of Naoussa. After your tour, you will have the remainder of the day at your leisure, and your guide can provide you with excellent dining recommendations. The next morning, your guide will lead you on a tour of the island’s most noteworthy sites. Again, the day will be at your leisure after your tour. For your final day in Paros, you will begin with a kayaking session and end with a private cooking class with a master chef.

Day  12 - 13

Mykonos – Scuba Dive and Couples Massage

After breakfast, you will make your way to the lively island of Mykonos. After settling in to your new accommodation, you will indulge in a relaxing couples massage. After a day of traveling, this massage will be the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind. Following your massage, your guide will provide you with dining options. The next morning, you will venture on a scuba diving expedition with an expert. If you do not have your certification, you will get certified before taking to the ocean with your guide. This activity will consume the majority of your day.

Day  14 - 15

Mykonos – The Mystique of Mykonos

After breakfast this morning, your guide will lead you on a tour of the island’s highlights. Your tour will include the village of Ano Mera, the island’s windmills, and Little Venice. After your tour, you will have the rest of the evening for some self-exploration. The following morning, you will have breakfast and a few hours before your guide leads you on a wine tasting adventure. Your sommelier guide will introduce you to a variety of excellent local wines. You can even take a bottle home with you if you like it enough.

Day  16 - 18

Mykonos –Delicious Island Fare

You will have most of the morning to spend at your leisure this morning, meaning that you can have a relaxing breakfast and lay in bed for a few hours. Around midday, your guide will lead you on a culinary tour of the island that will introduce you to some of the island’s fare that you have not yet had a chance to taste. The following day, you will explore the island’s southern coastline of the island. Your final day in Mykonos will be spent on a private yacht. During this experience, you will be the designer of the itinerary.

Day  19 - 20

Milos – The Kleftiko Caves

This morning, you will say farewell to Mykonos and transfer to the island of Milos. Here, you will spend your first evening on a sunset dinner sail that can be complete with a local wine pairing. The following day will have you partaking in a morning kayaking excursion that will also provide you with a glimpse of some of the local wildlife. After your kayaking adventure, you will sail to the Kleftiko Caves before spending the rest of the afternoon on a catamaran. Upon returning to Milos, your guide can provide you with great places to dine.

Milos – Departure

After breakfast, your private driver will transfer you to your accommodation for your flight home.

Trip Highlights

• Witness the wonders of Santorini and embark on an evening caldera hike
• Sail to the Cyclades Islands to sightsee, swim, snorkel and bask in the sunshine
• Explore Delos, traverse its ruins, and learn about Greek mythology
• Partake in a private seaside yoga session in Santorini
• Enjoy a e-bike tour that will lead you through Santorini’s countryside
• Indulge in a culinary tour in Mykonos of the island’s tasty delicacies
• Discover the Kleftiko Caves and stop for a picnic at sunset
• Scuba dive and sail into the sunset in Mykonos
• Spend a day snorkeling and sailing along the southern coast of Mykonos

Detailed Description

Your handcrafted romantic Greek Island vacation starts in Santorini with a sunset caldera hike that will leave you breathless from witnessing such stunning beauty. You will spend the following day sailing to the Small Cyclades Islands with a private guide. An exhilarating sea kayak excursion and a gourmet food tour fill your third day in Santorini, and on day four, you will be treated to a morning couple’s yoga session by the sea before wheeling around the island countryside on a scenic bike tour. Your final day in Santorini finds the two of you escaping on a private yacht to while away your remaining hours together, simply relaxing and enjoying each other’s company.

You will make your way to Naxos on day six and spend your first evening visiting a marble quarry and learning how to sculpt marble from a local master. A day trip to Delos awaits on day seven, followed by a private luxury cruise to the outer islands on day eight.

Departing Naxos on day nine, you will journey to Paros and be led on a lovely walking tour of charming Naoussa town. The following day, you will be introduced the the highlights of the island, including the picturesque locales of Parikia and Lefkes before embarking on a bike ride in the idyllic countryside. Your final day in Paros starts with a sea kayak excursion, followed by a private cooking class taught by a local master chef.

Mykonos awaits your arrival on day twelve, and after checking in to your luxury accommodations, you will enjoy a couple’s massage and candlelit dinner in your suite. Scuba diving and sailing into the sunset are on the agenda for day thirteen, followed by a Mykonos highlights tour and a private wine tasting excursion. A gourmet food tour fills your day sixteen, before you are swept away to sail and snorkel along the stunning South Coast. Your final day in Mykonos will be spent just the two of you on a luxury private yacht, relaxing and basking in one another’s presence in paradise.

Day nineteen finds you journeying to Milos and enjoying a romantic sunset dinner sail, before spending your final hours in this heavenly haven paddling through the pristine seas on a kayak and indulging in a gourmet picnic at sunset after witnessing the Kleftiko Caves.

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The Perfect Greece Itinerary for 2024 – Written by a Local

Planning a Greece itinerary? It sounds like the perfect Mediterranean escape to me!

Greece is a travel destination that offers blue skies, sunny climes, and charming culture all year round.

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Your curiosity and love for travel are what drive us, and we can’t wait to share our world with you. Here’s to countless adventures and unforgettable memories!

Stay curious, stay adventurous!

This article features a Greece travel itinerary to suit every taste. There is something for you here, whether you want to simply lounge around on the pristine beaches of idyllic islands, or you are eager for adventure and exploration.

Greece Itinerary Highlights

• Visiting Athens , the birthplace of modern civilisation
• Sampling mouthwatering Greek delicacies and learning how to make them
• Visiting mysterious cliff-top monasteries and traversing along scenic hiking trails in Meteora and Central Greece.
• Lounging on the pristine sandy beaches, and wandering through the narrow streets of quaint old towns on beautiful Greek islands.
• Discovering forgotten Byzantine settlements in Lakonia and the Peloponnese
• Falling in love with the charming neighbourhoods of Thessaloniki
• Conquering scenic hiking trails through Zagorahoria, and Northern Greece

When to Travel to Greece

Many people associate Greece with being a summer travel destination. However, the country is a wonderful year-round destination. The best time for you to travel will vary depending on your specific interests.

Spring (March to May)

Spring and Autumn are the shoulder seasons for travelling in Greece. The temperatures are warm and pleasant. They typically range between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius during this time.

Weather conditions in Spring are perfect for hiking in Greece . Travelling to Greek cities at this time gives you the chance to experience their historical and archaeological highlights without the crowds.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Greece is swelteringly hot. Temperatures often soar as high as 35-40 degrees Celsius in July and August.

The conditions may be perfect for Greek island hopping and lazing on paradisical beaches. However, hiking and extended outdoor exploration can be unbearable in the heat and humidity.

Most people tend to plan their Greece vacations for July and August. Consequently, everywhere is more crowded and you should try and reserve your hotels, tours, and ferry tickets in advance where you can.

Autumn (September to November)

Conditions in Greece in Autumn are similar to the Spring months. Temperatures linger around the late twenties (in terms of degrees Celsius) and the humidity subsides.

Shops, restaurants, and businesses around many of the islands close for the season at the end of September. However, in many places, the waters remain pleasant enough for swimming well into October .

Winter (December to February)

Winters in Greece can become bitter cold. Snow is not unheard of in Central and Northern Greece , and boats from the islands to the mainland run at a much more limited schedule. You can expect temperatures of 10 degrees and below if you are visiting Athens in winter .

Greece Travel Itinerary Budget

Beautiful Greece is generally a very affordable country to travel in. However, establishing an appropriate budget for your trip depends on where you are travelling to.

For example, Santorini and Mykonos are quite pricey. Conversely, Athens and mainland Greece typically do not break the bank.

Opting to travel outside the peak summer months will save you some money. Prices skyrocket during July and August. Come September, you will find that they have dropped by more than 50%.

Getting Around Greece  

Public transport in Greece is both affordable and reliable . It is also possible to rent a car . Driving in Greece is not as daunting as you may imagine.

Renting a Car in Greece

Opting to embark on your 10 day Greece itinerary with your own transport gives you a lot more freedom and flexibility. There are many charming villages, towns, and monasteries around the country that are tricky to get to unless you have a car.

Anyone between the ages of 21 and 70 can rent a car in Greece. Driving in Greece is not as intimidating as it may sound.

If you are an EU citizen, you must present an EU license. Non EU citizens need to display both their driving license and an International Driving Permit.

Various reputable rental companies operate in Greece. Sixt, Avis, and Hertz have branches across the country. Most offer pickup from major Greek airports.

Explore Greece by Rail

Greece’s rail network is not extensive. The main routes connect Athens to Thessaloniki , Kalambaka, and Patra. Some major cities (e.g. Ioannina ) are not serviced by rail at all.

OSE is the Greek rail network that manages the national trains. You can purchase tickets online, or in person at the train station.

Major renovation efforts have taken place in recent years to improve the service offering of Greek trains. Most services are clean, comfortable, fast, and efficient.

Explore Greece by Bus

KTEL buses are an intercity bus network that connects most major towns and cities in Greece. Small, regional operators service the routes to smaller villages.

KTEL buses are modern and comfortable. However, confusingly, there is not one centralised website to book tickets and review timetables from.

Instead, each region has its own KTEL website. For instance, KTEL Attikis services the Athens region.

Meanwhile, KTEL Chalkidikis services Halkidiki , and KTEL Macedonia covers Thessaloniki. If in doubt, your hotel can advise you where to search for tickets.

Ferries in Greece and the Islands

There are more than 6,000 Greek islands, split across several different Greek island groups . Only a small handful of Greek islands like Naxos and Paros have their own airports. . If you want to go island hopping in Greece, it typically makes sense to fly into Athens first for the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, and the Saronic islands. If you are going to be visiting the Ionian, you can fly into Corfu .

Skiathos island is serviced by a lot of European charter flights for travel to the Sporades during the summer months. You will need to depart from different ports and use different ferry operators depending on which area you are travelling to.

Most boats bound for the Saronic islands and the Cyclades depart from Athens’ Piraeus port. Sporades-bound boats depart from Agios Konstantinos and Volos ports.

Meanwhile, Igoumenitsa is the main departure point for Kerkyra and the Ionian. You can use ferryscanner to check routes and fares for ferries in Greece.

Greece Itineraries for Every Travel Style

Two different Greece itineraries have been drafted below which offer something to suit everyone.

Each proposed Greece itinerary lasts 10 days. However, you have the option to chop and change as you see fit.  

• Greece for Culture Vultures (Athens, Meteora, Delphi, Thessaloniki)
• Athens & the Cyclades (Athens, Santorini, Koufonisia, Mykonos)

10 Day Greece Itinerary: Greece for Culture Vultures

Best time to travel: Autumn and Spring

Greece has plenty to offer those with an interest in world cultures and history. Indeed, this gorgeous Mediterranean country is widely regarded as being the birthplace of civilisation. The cities and settlements here are among the oldest in the world.

In Athens, travellers can walk in the footsteps of Socrates and Aristotle as they meander through the Ancient Agora , and past the sunbleached ruins of temples and shrines that are thousands of years old.

Days One to Four: Athens

It makes sense to start your Greece itinerary in Athens. After all, the country’s main international airport is situated here, making the city a convenient entrypoint for most visitors.

Despite being far from being one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Athens is rich in ancient sites. However, it certainly has its charm.

Behind the gritty outer exterior, Athens boasts a plethora of quirky neighbourhoods, cute tavernas, and quirky coffee shops. You just have to know where to look.

The Greek capital is teeming with history. Its ramshackle streets date back over 5000 years. This makes it one of the oldest cities in the world.

Things to do in Athens

I’ve spent the last three and a half years living here in Athens. This Athens itinerary helps you cross off all of the most important sites in the city. Additionally, it enables you to beneath the surface and explore some of the more “ off the beaten path” areas.

Some of Athens’ main highlights are summarised below.

Athens Highlights

• Admire the Cycladic architecture of Anafiotika
• Visit the Acropolis
• Do a victory lap around the Panathenaic stadium
• Hike to the top of Lycabettus hill
• Sip tsipouo and ouzo in the tavernas of Plaka
• Venture off the beaten path

Get a Sampler of Island Life in Anafiotika

Anafiotika is one of the most charming spots in Athens. The best part? Very few people actually know about it.

Anafiotika is a charming little village whose houses are decorated in quintessential Greek island style. Envisage quaint whitewashed structures with blue roofs. The neighbourhood cascades down the slopes of Acropolis hill.

To get to Anafiotika, you can follow an unsuspecting path that leads upwards from Plaka. The area was created in the 18th century by residents of the Greek island Anafi who relocated to Athens.

They designed their houses in a style reminiscent of their island homes. As such, the architectural style here is more reminiscent of the Cyclades than what you may expect to see in the Greek capital.

Be a Tourist at the Acropolis

The Acropolis is visible from virtually all corners of Athens . It sits perched precariously atop a craggy, rocky hilltop from where it watches protectively over the city.

This is one of the most important historical monuments in Greece and the western world. Indeed, the Acropolis was almost designated as being one of the “new” seven wonders of the world.

The shimmering marble structure of the Parthenon is a magnificent remnant of the grand city of Pericles that was constructed at the site thousands of years ago. The site is more expansive than many realise.

The Parthenon may be the Acropolis’ “piece de resistance”. However, there are also numerous other important buildings in the area that should not be missed.

This includes the Temple of Athena Nike, the sanctuaries of Pandroseion and Erechtheion, and the well-preserved Herodes Atticus Roman Amphitheatre. Admission to the Acropolis also includes entry to the worthwhile Acropolis museum.

You should dedicate at least a couple of hours to exploring the ruins and the exhibitions. It is advisable to purchase your tickets online in advance, to save time queuing on arrival.

Do a Victory Lap at the Panathenaic Stadium

Athens’ Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro) is the world’s only marble stadium. Dating way back to 566 BC, it was renovated in the 18th century. Later it became the location of the first modern Olympic games.

Today, musical and sporting events are often hosted at the Panathenaic Stadium. Admission to the stadium and its adjoining Olympic history museum is €4.

The latter displays Olympic torches and memorabilia from across the globe. You will often see people jogging around the track in the morning

Hike up Lycabettus Hill

Lycabettus Hill is a slice of tranquility in an otherwise hectic and chaotic city. It towers above the treelined streets of upscale Kolonaki .

Enjoy a pleasant, leisurely stroll through the woodlands and fragrant flower gardens as you ascend the hill. The quaint, whitewashed Orthodox church of Agios Georgios awaits at the top and contains several interesting icons and frescoes inside.

From up here, you have excellent panoramas across Athens and over to the Acropolis. The views are particularly special when the sun begins to set.

At this time, the historical monuments of Athens are illuminated with beautiful twinkling lights. On a clear day, you can see all the way out to Piraeus and the islands of Hydra , Agistri, etc.

Sip Tsipouro in Charming Plaka

Picturesque Plaka is one of the oldest parts of Athens. This is the heart of the city’s tourist district, sure. However, Plaka is so charming that it is quickly forgiven. Even Athenians often come here for an evening tipple or a spot of lunch.

Plaka boasts a labyrinth-like network of winding alleyways, crumbling Greco-Roman ruins, and eccentric markets and boutiques. Look out for the Roman Agora, the Bathhouse of the Winds, and the Ancient Agora while you’re here.

Grab Food in Plaka

Try to avoid the tourist trap restaurants on the steps of Plaka and nearby Thissio where toots are trying to lure visitors inside. Psaras Fisherman’s Tavern (Erechtheos 16) is one of the oldest restaurants in Athens.

It serves up fresh, mouthwatering seafood dishes with fish sourced from the nearby Aegean. To Kafeneio (Epicharmou 1) is another local favourite.

It has somehow escaped the attention of most visitors to Athens, despite being so centrally located. Sample the marinated country sausages and the meze specialties from Northern Greece .

Venture Off the Beaten Path

Athenian districts like artsy Pagrati and chic Kifissia are far more charming and personable than the central areas of Syntagma and Monastiraki . Each Athens neighbourhood has its own personality and town centre.

For instance, Exarchia and Metaxourgeio are known for their street art and emerging creative scenes. Meanwhile, underrated Kypseli is where a lot of foreign immigrants move to in Athens, and thus is home to vibrant international markets and eclectic stores.

You may wish to consider taking a walking tour of these parts of the city with a local. That way, you can really get beneath the surface of what the Greek capital has to offer and discover places that you may not have otherwise considered.

Where to Stay in Athens

Opting to stay in Syntagma, Koukaki , Psiri or Makriyianni will put you in the heart of the action. Here, you are just a short walk away from the main Athenian attractions.

However, venturing a little further afield gives a better insight into local life and culture. This guide on where to stay in Athens discusses the various Athenian neighbourhoods and gives a runthrough of the best possible options.

Day Five: Delphi

The ancient city of Delphi is one of 18 UNESCO world heritage sites in Greece . It is a must-visit for those interested in Greek history and mythology .

Legend has it that Zeus sent two eagles on a quest to find the central point of the universe. They flew to Delphi, and so, the city was built here.

There are several notable sites and ruins at Delphi. These include the temple of Apollo, an ancient amphitheater, and a fascinating museum displaying various artifacts recovered from the region.

Delphi is easily accessible by bus from Athens. It also places you just a short drive away from the next stop on this cultural 10 day Greece itinerary: Meteora.

Days Six and Seven: Meteora

The monasteries at Meteora are a breathtaking sight to behold. The name translates to meaning “suspended in the air”. Quite a fitting name.

This is the second-largest monastic community in Europe. It is second only to Mount Athos in Halkidiki .

The first monks arrived here around the 14th century and crafted 24 stunning Orthodox monasteries on the edges of the craggy cliffs. Today, only six of the original structures remain.

However, it is possible to venture inside, and their interiors are every bit as breathtaking as the exteriors. The scenic hiking trails that wind between the sites, and the stunning natural scenery make Meteora a highlight of any 10-day Greece itinerary.

Many beautiful hotels are located in nearby Kalambaka. Most of these offer impressive views over the monasteries for sunrise and sunset.   

The various monasteries of Meteora are open at different times. You can check the specifics with your hotel.

Keep in mind that conservative dress is required for entering most monasteries. This means keeping your legs and shoulders covered.

Days Eight to Ten: Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a city of remarkable history, sumptuous cuisine, and incredible sea views, a must-see on your week in Greece. This is Greece’s second city.

The streets and promenades of Thessaloniki are always teeming with life and activity. During the days of the Ottoman Empire, Thessaloniki was a city of major importance.

Start your Thessaloniki itinerary by stopping by the White Tower. This is the city’s most notable landmark.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll alongside the seafront as you enjoy the views over the Thermaic Gulf. When the sun sets, check out the vibrant tavernas and restaurants at the Ladadika district .

For drinks, head to the upscale bars that overlook the sunken gardens of Agios Ioannis. Ano Poli is one of the oldest parts of town and consists of quaint, colourful, Ottoman-era houses, many of which have been converted into charming stores, guesthouses, and eateries.

Thessaloniki airport offers onward flight routes to numerous destinations across Europe. Alternatively, you can find a cheap flight back to Athens with a Greek domestic airline for your return flight onwards.

Greece Itinerary 2: Ancient Civilisations & Beautiful Islands

Best time to travel: Shoulder season months (May, June and September)

The Greek islands are a paradise on earth. With translucent cerulean waters and miles upon miles of pristine sandy white beaches, it is not hard to understand why so many people love them. The islands are the main reason that many people pen Greece into their travel bucket lists in the first place.

This 10 days in Greece itinerary takes you to some of the most beloved Greek island destinations. From the romantic sunsets of Santorini to the glamorous beaches of Mykonos, and the secluded paradise of Koufonisia.

Days One and Two: Athens

A 10 day Greece itinerary that combines visiting the mainland and the islands is perfect. Such a trip enables you to see all sides of what this Mediterranean oasis has to offer.

Spend two days in Athens. This is enough to get a taster of the city’s culture and heritage.

From there, head on to the islands that the country is best known for. From Athens, fly or take the ferry to Santorini .

Days Three to Five: Santorini

Santorini’s reputation precedes it. The Greek isle is instantly recognisable around the world.

It is characterised by its iconic white Cycladic buildings that cascade down cliff faces, its multicoloured cliffs, and its volcanic sand beaches. Santorini is likely the main image that springs to mind at any mention of travelling to Greece.

There may be a lot of hype around Santorini but this is for good reason. Santorini, with its dazzling sunsets and panoramas, is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in Southern Europe.

Things to do in Santorini

You will not be short of things to do in Santorini. A selection of the island highlights is discussed below.

Santorini Highlights

• Conquer the Fira to Oia hike
• Navigate through the labyrinth-like streets of old Fira
• Visit the Akrotiri ruins
• Spend an afternoon in Ammoudi Bay
• Explore the ruins of old Byzantine castles
• Laze on the Red and Black sand beaches

Hike from Fira to Oia

The walk from Fira to Oia is an absolute must on this 10-day Greece itinerary. The 10km volcanic trail is one of the best hikes in Greece . It leads you through stunning volcanic landscapes that look like something from another worldly plane.

Along the route, you pass through the beautiful villages of Fira, Imerovigli, Oia, and Firostefani. The long-distance can be broken up with stops along the way.

Drink locally sourced wine in the tavernas of Imerovigli and take photographs as you admire the views over the caldera. The views are particularly magical as you approach golden hour and sunset.

Browse the Quaint Streets of Fira

The quaint streets of Fira are filled with elegant boutique stores that showcase the creations of local designers. They are the perfect choice for treating yourself to a little retail therapy and purchasing one-of-a-kind pieces that you cannot find elsewhere.

Visit the Akrotiri Ruins

The ancient city of Akrotiri dates back to 1630 BC. This bronze age settlement was sadly destroyed by a volcanic eruption on Santorini.

What remains of the site is somewhat similar to Pompeii. However, Akrotiri predates the Italian ruins. Akrotiri is rumored to have inspired Plato’s story of the lost city of Atlantis.  

Enjoy an Afternoon in Ammoudi Bay

Ammoudi Bay is a charming port filled with red cliffs and whitewashed tavernas. The eateries here serve excellent seafood dishes, and even Santorini residents come here for dinner.

Ammoudi is relatively off the beaten path as far as Santorini travel goes. It is situated 300 steps below Oia. You can board boats bound for Thirassia from the port here.

Meandering along the seafront promenade is charming. However, the highlight of Ammoudi is the secluded swimming spots and rock pools that are tucked away from view.

A weathered path leads you towards Agios Nikolaos rock. This is a favourite among locals for cliff jumping and swimming.

Explore the Byzantine Castle Ruins

The Byzantine castle in Oia was constructed centuries ago. It was built at a time when pirates were a real threat in Greece and locals needed to fortify their defenses.

Exploring the ruins themselves is interesting. However, the panoramas and viewpoints across the island and the sea from up here are second to none.

Visit the Beaches

Santorini is not renowned for its beaches. There are in fact many Greek islands and travel destinations with more beautiful coastlines than Santorini.

That said, the island does boast some unique seaside destinations. The Perissa black sand beach is a nice place to relax and grab lunch.

So too, is Red Beach. The latter was awarded its name on account of the unusual red shade of the volcanic rock here.

Where to Base Yourself in Santorini

Fira and Oia are the most popular towns in Santorini. The best place to stay depends somewhat on your personal preferences. Oia is the classic town that you see in most photographs and postcards of Santorini.

Arguably this is the most picturesque spot and is home to the most famous sunset in the world. however, Fira is the main town of Santorini.

Fira is filled with plentiful bars, restaurants, and entertainment options. Yet the sunset here doesn’t quite compare.

Days Six and Seven: Koufonisia

The appeal of Santorini and Mykonos is indisputable. However, so too is the draw of venturing off the beaten track to quiet Cycladic islands that escape the eyes of most tourists .

The small island of Koufonisia is one such place. It is a perfect spot to escape the crowds.

The island is less than 4km in length. Yet the paradisiacal beaches, inspiring landscapes, and chic hangouts here have won Koufonisia the title of being the “Mykonos of the Mini Cyclades”.

Koufonisia has been attracting trendy Greek locals for several decades. Yet like a lot of the best places to visit in Greece , it remains relatively undiscovered on a more global scale.

Don’t expect beaches lined with taverns, bars, and nightlife here. Koufonisia is the place to escape from all of the buzzes of modern life.

Here you can enjoy secluded coastlines and stretches of sand that you have virtually all to yourself. This is particularly the case if you are travelling during the shoulder season.

Swim and snorkel off the shores of the white sand Pori beach. By nightfall, enjoy home-cooked Greek dishes lovingly prepared in local tavernas that offer views out across to the nearby uninhabited islands.

Days Eight to Ten: Mykonos

The Greek island of Mykonos is synonymous with glitz, glamour, and the idea of living the good life. You could envisage Mykonos as having the elegance of the south of France, with the same party-hard spirit as Ibiza.

That said, you don’t have to be a night owl to appreciate the appeal of the island. The island has some of the most beautiful scenery in the Cyclades and so, Mykonos caters to everyone.

Some of the best activities to enjoy on the glamorous isle of Mykonos are listed below.

Head to Chora to Check Out the Windmills

The windmills at Chora are perhaps the most recognised landmark of Mykonos. They were used for centuries to refine grain, using the high winds that blow across the island.

Though there were originally dozens of windmills, now only seven remain. Some of these have been renovated into quirky residential homes.  

Kato Myloi are the most famous windmills in Chora. They are situated atop a hill that offers incredible views over the sea. The hill is well worth the walk, and this spot is one of the best places on the island to watch the sunset.

Enjoy Dinner and Cocktail Hour at Little Venice

Little Venice consists of colourful, stilted houses that emerge from the sea. Once upon a time, this was a popular hangout spot for pirates!

Today, the stilted houses have been renovated into chic upscale cocktail bars and eateries. Little Venice is one of the best places to enjoy gourmet food with a view during your 10-day Greece itinerary.

Visit Delos, Birthplace of Apollo and Artemis

A day trip to the mysterious island of Delos is one of the most fascinating historical attractions that you could incorporate into your Greece itinerary. This small UNESCO-protected island is considered as being one of the most important archaeological sites in all of Greece!

According to Greek mythology, Delos was the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The island was deemed sacred ground, and no mortal was ever permitted to be born or die on the island.

Ruined temples, sculpture guardians, and colonnaded promenades around the island are remarkably well-preserved. Boats depart daily from Mykonos to Delos.

Stroll Around Mykonos Town Centre and the Old Port

Mykonos’ town centre is comprised of maze-like narrow alleyways and quaint cobbled streets. Enjoy getting lost among the colourful buildings, and browsing through the various boutique stores that are scattered around the town centre.

For dinner and drinks, head to Matogianni. This is the place to see and be seen in Mykonos.

Trendy town centre aside, the old port also brings in its share of charm. This area is filled with beautiful churches and cute coffee shops where locals sip strong Greek coffee and play backgammon. It is a lovely place to walk, take photos and people watch – especially as the sun sets behind the fishing boats.

Go Organic Wine Tasting

Mykonos is home to dozens of vineyards that offer tours and tastings to visitors. You can sample exquisite organic local wines along with fresh, homemade Greek delicacies.

Kopanisti and ladotyri cheeses, charcuterie boards, cold cuts, and horiatiki (Greek salad) are all popular accompaniments. Various tour operators offer Mykonos wine tasting excursions. You can also reach out directly to the vineyards that interest you and organise an independent tasting. If you enquire at your hotel/accommodation, your concierge may be able to assist you in organising a private transfer between the wineries.

Extensions for Your Greece Travel Itinerary

These Greece itineraries have been created with the idea of fitting as much as possible into your vacation time off work without having to hurry from A to B.

There are so many stunning places to visit in Greece that it is hard to just shortlist a few. However, if you have a little longer to spend in this Mediterranean paradise, additional destinations that you could consider are detailed below.

Arachova is a worthy destination to add to your cultural Greece itinerary. This is particularly the case if you are travelling to Greece during the winter . The small mountain village is a popular romantic getaway for Greeks during the Christmas period.

Arachova is famed for its reputation as a ski resort. However, it also boasts fascinating archaeological sites, beautiful nature, and the chance to have a more “local” travel experience. It doesn’t get any cozier than snuggling up by the fire in a log cabin in the Greek mountains.

Nafplio is the former capital of Greece and arguably one of the most underrated travel destinations across the entire country. It is possible to visit Nafplio on a day trip from Athens . The charming old town, with its cocktail bars and charming tavernas effortlessly captures the hearts of those who visit.

The island of Crete is filled with enough scenery, history, and culture to warrant an entire two-week itinerary all of its own. On a limited schedule though, 3-4 days in Heraklion is well worth incorporating into your Greece travel itinerary.

Heraklion’s charismatic harbour boasts plenty of charming guesthouses overlooking the Mediterranean. Using Heraklion as a base, it’s possible to access some of Crete’s most important sites within a few days. This includes the fort at Knossos and the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos.

The Saronic Gulf Islands

The islands of the Saronic Gulf are just a few hours away from Athens’ Piraeus port. They boast beautiful secluded beaches and coves, and quaint fishing villages void of tourists.

Explore the quaint port and narrow shopping streets of Hydra – an adorable island where cars do not exist and people get around by horses and donkeys. Alternatively, revel in the rugged natural beauty of Spetses.

Situated on the western coast of the country, the Ionian island of Lefkada is connected to mainland Greece by several bridges. If you are seeking R&R during your Hellenic travels, there are plenty of Lefkada beaches that you can sink your toes into.

Porto Katsiki, Milos, Kathisma, Agiofili, and Egremni are but a few coastal areas that are beloved among locals. Lefkada also makes a good jumping-off point for taking boats out to the islands of Itaka or Kefalonia for a day.

Final Thoughts

Do you have any questions about these Greece itineraries? I live in Athens and will be happy to answer any questions that you may have about planning your trip to Greece .

Feel free to reach out by email or drop me a comment below if you need anything. Safe travels! Geia sou! Melissa

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13 comments.

Hi Melissa! I will be traveling to Greece for 9 days in May. I fly in and out of Athens and wanted to incorporate Mykonos, Santorini, Crete and Meteora into my trip. Do you think this is plausible? This would mean 2 days in each place. Would you change this in any way? Thank you!

Hey Emily, Thanks for your message. Your itinerary is certainly possible and all of those are lovely places! The only thing to keep in mind is that it would be a bit hurried. One thing, in particular, is that it takes almost four hours to get to Meteora from Athens so it’s a bit of a trek there and back. Crete is also a very large island. I would be tempted to reduce the number of destinations perhaps and save one or two for next time so that you spend less time travelling and have more time to relax and enjoy the lovely beaches and islands but that is personal preference 🙂 Will you spend any time in Athens itself?

Hi Melissa! Im travelling to Greece this summer. Already booked the following: 1. Land at Athens on 15th August evening 2. Flying from Thessaloniki to Eindhoven (Netherlands) on 27th August 3. Free Earth Festival in Halkidiki – 22nd to 26th August. So I have 16th August to 21st August to travel mainland Greece (i think islands would get expensive for me) starting from Athens and ending at Thessaloniki. After reading your article, I was thinking may be 2-3 days Athens, 1 day Delphi, 1 day Meteora and then to Thessaloniki would be best for me. Do i need accomodation at Delphi and Meteora? Do Delphi and Meteora have cheap accomodation available (hostels)? Do i have travel options that go from Athens to Delphi, Delphi to Meteora, Meteora to Thessaloniki? Are there night buses for these routes?

what would you suggest? i definitely like the chills and beaches (island trips) more but it looks difficult. Sorry for too many questions. And THANK YOU!!!

Many many thanks for your truly excellent insights into Greece. You’ve made my decisions much easier after reading your thoughts. And, even better, you are a really interesting writer! Jim

Awesome itineraries and suggestions. When I traveled to Greece, I explored the islands of Milos and Sifnos, which are just spectacular. Your post makes me want to travel back and spend a few nore months in Greece 🙂

Thanks Viktoria! It’s certainly a beautiful country 🙂 I have been living in Greece for the past two years now and never get tired of exploring it!

What do you think about doing the island hopping itinerary end of March? My best friend and business partner are going to come for ten days and bring our daughters as a surprise. (17 and 19 years old) We want to relax mostly, see amazing cultural sites, beach it and just basically see things that the more common tourist might not see. We need your help! Four amazing women coming for the first time. We started our own company a year ago and with our earnings we’ve decided to treat ourselves and daughters to a getaway to Greece! What should we do? We are game for any type of adventure! Kindly, Kim

Hi Melissa; So glad to have found your blog. Me and my dad are thinking of traveling to ONE of these end of November 2021 for 7-10 days: Hydra, Kythnos, (Poros or Tinos) after your recommendations! Think escape tourists, history, traditional pretty villages n good local food, charming, quiet and somewhere budget pref a family run guesthouse. Just super authentic and off beaten track. My dad is 80 yrs old (no car rental over 70? any exceptions?). I have mobility issues..so preferably easy to get to from Athens & the option to get some kind of ride necessary for main part, and not too hilly/stairs for my poor feet..any suggestions? Hot springs wud b icing on the cake! Help!

Hi Melissa, My husband and I are planning a trip to Greece late September. We love hiking and are looking for a challenging hike. We’ve done Patagonia in Chile and Fisherman’s Trail in Portugal more recently. We are looking for an 8 to 9-day hike, we are flexible. I like the sounds of the Corfu Trail. We are looking for an agent to do the booking and maybe do a luggage transfer if available on that trail. We will be celebrating our tenth wedding anniversary so are looking for a little upscale this time. Would appreciate your suggestions. Thank you. Chantal

Hi Melissa, wow you provide fabulous information! Traveling this July, doing itinerary now! looking to go to Crete, Rhodes, Athens, Santorini, Paros and of course teens want Mykonos but not necessary. Looking at 11-12 days. Ferry rides to and from places. Athens two days and the rest is fun, sun, old towns, local spots and affordable places to stay to be on a budget! Would love your input!

Hi Mellisa, I am glad I found your blog. Lots of good information. My family of 4 are planning trip to Greece on November. We want to go Santorini, Meteora, and Athens. We will be flying from USA. I was thinking to travel first to Santorinir then Meteora and Athens at last. Do you think this order is a good idea? I would love your thought on this. Thank you!

Hi Melissa, Loved your blog. It’s very insightful. I am travelling from India to Greece next month with my husband for 10-12 days. We are not the history types and would rather enjoy nature and nightlife.

This may be my only trip to Greece and thus I want to ensure I don’t miss the must do’s.

So if you could suggest the number of days in each destination; would be of great help. Too many choices are confusing for me.

Also, not very sure of covid restrictions there.

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THE PERFECT ITALY AND GREECE ITINERARY

For many people visiting Italy and Greece is a dream come true but it can be a long way to go and often a once in a lifetime trip. If you have never been to either country but have limited vacation time to use then how can you maximise your Italy and Greece itinerary to make the most of your trip?

This 3-week itinerary for Greece and Italy trip covers many of the main highlights for each country as well as a few hidden gems as well.

PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE?

Whether you’ve been before or it’s your first time it can be hard to process all the information out there. Be sure to check out our complete Planning Guide as well as our FREE 13-page downloadable itinerary.

If you are feeling really overwhelmed you might like a Trip Consultation perhaps!?

And come join our private Facebook Group where you can ask questions and get advice from real travellers!

Note: This article may contain affiliate links.

When to visit Italy and Greece

The best times to visit the Mediterranean are April-June and September-October. The weather is mild and the crowds are generally low.

High season is late June to early September, and prices will reflect that as will the crowds, the number of cruise ships and accommodation availability.

Despite being busy summer is still great, especially for beach time and in some of the lesser known spots. The water is warm, there are blue skies every day and a fun holiday atmosphere.

Orthodox Easter is an especially wonderful time to visit Greece as it becomes very festive with parades, parties, and on many islands bonfires , fireworks and other activities and traditions.

In Italy Carnivale in Venice  ends with the Christian celebration of  Lent , forty days before Easter so it occurs usually in February and March while the La Biennial di Venezia, Europe’s premier arts showcase, starts in May.

Christmas in both countries is very special as are the many religious holidays and celebrations. 

Best beach and swimming weather: June to September Best sightseeing weather: March to June and September/October

DAY 1- Athens

Athens is the capital of Greece and home to some of the most iconic and important historical sites and monuments in the world.

There are several ways to get to Athens which cover air, sea, rail, driving and even on foot. Once you’ve arrived it’s easy enough to get into the city centre and having a private driver waiting for you is our favourite way to do it!

With two days in Athens you can see and do a lot and if you can increase it to three or four days you will not be disappointed – there are so many amazing day trips you can do.

Spend your first day in the Athens exploring the ancient centre. Everything is very compact and its easy to get around, in fact most things can be seen easily on foot.

Apart from the many things you can do in Athens including great shopping, incredible food, and all the ancient sites there is also great nightlife with a plethora of bars, tavernas, and clubs to choose from. There are a lot of new hotels and restaurants many with incredible rooftop views , especially of the Acropolis.

The Acropolis Museum is world-class and needs to be enjoyed either before or after you visit the Acropolis so it’s the perfect activity for your second day. Make sure you read our complete guide for lots of great tips including how to beat the crowds!

Where to stay in Athens

For couples : Zillers Hotel has only 10 rooms and some have amazing Acropolis views. There is a lovely rooftop bar and restaurant and it’s right on Mitropolous dining street. Also check out The Foundry Suites in Psiri which is a very cool converted former Foundry with lots of retro elements.

For families and groups : The Pinnacle is a 2 bedroom suite that sleeps 6 or these Twin Lofts can sleep up to 12!

Solo : I love to stay at Ergon House when I’m on my own. Its across from Zillers and part of the famous Ergon House food emporiums. They have a small business centre and very helpful and attentive staff.

Things to do in Athens on Day One

• wander down Ermou Pedestrian Street
• Visit Syntagma Square and see Parliament House and the Changing of the Greek Presidential Guard – the Evzones
• explore Plaka and the many cafes, shops and galleries
• stop by the Monastaraki flea market

DAY 3 – Meteora 

Day 4 – Santorini 

Santorini is a bucket list destination for most people for good reason. It is one of those places that not only meets your expectations but probably exceeds it.

We love to stay in Oia which is considered the most picturesque village, although a lot of people also enjoy Imerovigli which is about a 20-minute walk along the nice flat footpath that runs along the Caldera seam. For a truly authentic Greek experience consider staying in the interior village of Pyrgos.

There are a surprising amount of things to do on Santorini with beaches, wineries, hot springs, great shopping and some of the worlds most iconic and photographed sunsets.

How to get to Santorini

You can travel to Santorini by ferry or by plane from Athens. Return to Athens from Meteora either on your overnight tour, by driving or by train.

The small international airport has several flights to Athens a day as well as regular flights in summer from other European destinations like Rome and England. Check flight schedules HERE.

There are also many ferries each day, year-round. Most service either the Western or Eastern Cyclades Islands and on to Athens whilst some come from Crete.

TIP : Both the port and the airport can be very busy in summer and there can be long waits for the cablecar, taxis and donkeys. It pays to have a private transfer waiting for you!

Where to stay in Santorini

For couples : Ducato Di Oia ( adults only) suites in Oia or Above Blue Suites in Imerovigli for more isolation and at a lower price point.

For families and groups : White Harmony Suites have 2 bedroom suites or Theoxenia Boutique Hotel have squad rooms and are not far from, dare I say it, McDonalds.

Solo : Kivotos in Imerovigli for a splurge or Abelonas Retreat on a budget.

Things to do in Santorini on Day One

• explore the maze of streets in Oia including Panagia Platsani Church
• visit famous Atlantis Books for a unique bookshop experience
• check out the many upmarket boutiques and jewellery shops in Oia
• walk down to Oia Castle

Day 5 – Santorini 

More cool things to do in Santorini 

• a half day tour of the island
• tour the world renowned wineries with a sommelier
• do wine tasting AND a cooking class
• swim at Black Beach, Red Beach and Kamari Beaches
• visit authentic Pyrgos village and see what Santorini is like for long time locals
• attend a ‘traditional’ Greek wedding !
• have a professional photographic session done – hard to beat the backdrop!

Day 6 – Naxos 

Naxos is the largest of the Cyclades Islands and is famous for its lush and fertile valleys, its picturesque, whitewashed villages and towns and beautiful beaches.

Despite being such a large island it has a small local population and there is a surprisingly wide array of things to see and do. It’s a very laid back destination and its easy to see why Naxos is so popular, especially with families .

It’s also a very affordable island and represents great value for money for all types of travellers.

How to get to Naxos 

Most people travel to Naxos from Sanotirini by ferry which takes about 2 hours. There are several ferries each day, year-round. The main town of Chora is also the main port.

It is possible to fly but you will need to connect with another flight back at Athens airport.

Where to stay in Naxos 

For couples : Antony Suites are gorgeous, right near St.George beach and are Adults Only

For families and groups : Ippokampos apartments are in the Chora and can sleep up to 5 while Aegean Land have 2 bedrooms apartments right on the beach at Plaka

Solo : Mystique of Naxos is right near the beach in the Chora and has stunning rooms and a great little rooftop pool and sundeck. You can walk to everything and it’s very affordbale too!

Things to do in Naxos  

• Explore the Chora including the Old Market
• visit the Kastro
• drop into the Bazeos Tower
• spend some time at the Folklore Museum
• Visit the Portara at sunset
• wander down to Saint George Beach for a swim and perhaps stay for dinner

Day 8 – Paros

For many people Paros is the perfect Greek island. It’s not too big nor too small, and there are things to see and do that suit everyone. It’s also a busy ferry stop from Athens to the other popular Cyclades islands being only 30 minutes from Naxos or 60 from Mykonos.

It’s also got a great little neighbour right next door called Anti-Paros which is a wonderful destination in itself.

We like to stay in Naoussa on Paros which many say is like a small, cheaper version of Mykonos with a lively mix of tavernas, bars, and nightclubs as well as lovely whitewashed alleys full of great cafes, bars, beautiful artisan stores and boutiques and gelati shops.

The port town of Parikia is also nice and a little more affordable than Naoussa. Spend your first day on Paros exploring your local town or villages, swimming at the beach and enjoying a long, lazy dinner as the sun goes down.

There’s plenty of time to take in the sights exploring the many things to do on Paros over the next day. Hire a car for at least a day and do a full loop of the island – there’s many wonderful surprises!

How to get to Paros

You can also travel to Paros by ferry from Naxos which takes about 30 minutes.

There are many ferries each day, year-round. The port town is called Parikia and that, or Naoussa are the best options to base yourself.

Where to stay in Paros  

For couples : Lilly Residence is stunning and Adults Only or Senia Hotel is a perennial favourite year round.

For families and groups : Paliomylos Hotel and Spa is where we chose to stay for special birthday celebrations with 38 family and friends and have since returned several times. Chrys and the team are amazing!

Solo : Parian Village Beach Hotel is right across from the beach near the port town of Parikia and have great value single rooms with beautiful sea views and a nice pool.

Further reading: Where to stay on Paros  

Things to do in Paros on your first day

• Explore the villages of Naoussa or Parikia depending on where you are staying.
• Naoussa: don’t miss the Venetian Fort, the old fishing port, Kapopoulos Fine Arts Gallery,  the ducks at the Harbour Bridge and  the Church of the Virgin Mary ( Panayia).
• Parakia: The Church of 100 doors ( and its museum), the Frankish Castle, the Archaic Temple of Athena, the myriad of shops and cafes in the back alleys and the Port.

Lavrio is a town south of Athens on the Greek Mainland. The word Lavrion comes from ‘Lavra’ which means alley or paths and the area is thought to have been inhabited since Neolithic times.

It is a much prettier (and smaller) port than Pireaus and is also closer to the airport which is about 35 minutes’ drive away. Stopping here for a night will give you a feel for the area called the ‘Athenian Riviera” and it’s a very pleasant way to end your time in Greece.

There are not as many ferry connections to Lavrio as there are to Pireaus but there are regular connections from Paros, Mykonos,Syros and Tilos – something only seasoned travellers seem to know about!

The main point of interest in Lavrio is the fishing village itself, the Mineralogical Museum and nearby Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounio, a 15-minute drive away.

Further reading: Best hotels near Athens Airport

How to get to Lavrio

You can travel to Lavrio by ferry from Paros which takes about 3 hours but you may need to connect on Syros or Mykonos. Timetables for this route are often not released until Spring so keep an eye on schedules HERE.

If a ferry is not running at the time you require you can fly to Athens from Paros and catch a taxi to Lavrio.

Where to stay in Lavrio 

Cape Sounio, Grecotel Exclusive Resort  is a sprawling resort on the beachfront and is a great choice for all travellers.

Day 10 – Rome

The ‘Eternal’ city is one of the most iconic cities in the world and a place that’s sure to capture a piece of your heart.

As the capital of Italy, it has the busiest airport in the country and Rome is where many people visit before moving on to explore other areas.

There is a lot to see and do in Rome and many people will tell you even a week is not enough, but the main attractions are very close together and you can see many highlights in a short time ourselves.

Of course you cannot miss a visit to the Pantheon, the Colosseum or St. Peters Basilica and the Vatican – all in close proximity to each other and all incredible.

The Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum and the various Piazza’s are also world-famous and wonderfully trattorias, wine bars, high-end boutiques and beautiful gardens are all not to be missed.

Transport Infrastructure in Italy is good and with few islands, it is easy to get from one place to another quickly.

How to get to Rome from Athens

The easiest way to get to Italy from Greece is to fly. Lavrio is close to Athens airport and within a few short hours, you can be on the ground in Rome.

There are regular daily flights between Athens and Rome with Aegean Airlines and Air Italia, sometimes more in Summer. Other airlines servicing the route usually include Easyjet, RyanAir and Lufthansa.

It is also possible to get to Italy from Greece by sea with regular ferries between Patras and the Ionian Islands and Brindisi and Bari in Italy. You would then need to drive or catch the train to Rome.

If you would prefer not to organise everything yourself in Italy check out this very popular 5 day – Best of Italy tour !

Where to stay in Rome

For couples :   It’s hard to beat J.K. Place Roma with its central proximity to the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon and its incredible roof top bar. Casa del Moro is a very romantic loft with beautiful views from the room balcony and is a very affordable option too.

For families and groups : Hotel Cosmopolita is in a great location near the Trevi Fountain and they have quad rooms. Just around the corner is Filo Black , a stylish 2 bedroom apartment that sleeps 6 and is fully self-contained. We also love Raphel’s Pallette which also sleeps 6, is very spacious and a design lovers dream!

Solo : Apollo Rooms Colosseo is a fairly new establishment with friendly owners and quiet rooms. As the name suggests it is quite close to the Colosseum and well located to see most of the highlights of room on foot or by public transport.

Things to do in Rome on your first day

• Walk down the Spanish Steps. Take in the view at the top and wander down slowly exploring Pincio, Piazza Del Popolo and Santa Maria del Popolo Church
• Stop for a coffee or Spritz at the garden of Hotel du Russie, one of Rome’s best-kept secrets
• Stroll down Via Condotti and see all the high-end fashion brands
• Finish at the Pantheon, one of the most incredible buildings in Europe with the world’s largest unreinforced concrete dome
• do a Foodie Cycling tour with a local Chef
• participate in a Pasta and Tiramisu lovers workshop

Things to do in Rome on your second day

• Start the day with coffee at one of the many cafes on the Borgo Pio
• Beat the crowds and take in an early small-group tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Be sure to add a tour of St Peter’s Basilica as well!
• If time permits and you are up to it climbing the dome will reward you with incredible views
• Walk around St.Peter’s Square. If you are lucky you may get a wave from the Pope!
• Walk back over the Tiber River and over to Palazzo Navona which has so much to see and do
• Take a VIP tour of the Colosseum, Palatine and the Roman Forum
• do a magical Rome-by-night e-bike tour
• explore the creepy hidden Bone Crypts of Ancient Rome

Express entry - Vatican/Sistine Chapel/St Peters

Dont queue with the crowds. Book these tickets in advance for faster than skip-the-line entry!

Day 12 – Amalfi Coast

The stunning Amalfi Coast is located in southern Italy’s Campania region and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Located south of Naples the Amalfi Coast starts just behind Sorrento and continues for 60 kilometres (37 miles) along the coast including the towns of Positano, Ravello, Praiano, Amalfi, Minori and Cetara.

The region is bordered by the dramatic Lattari Mountains on one side and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea on the other.

It is one of the most popular and most photographed destinations in Europe where people come from all over the world to experience the classic ‘la dolce vita’ atmosphere.

How to get to the Amalfi Coast from Rome

The Amalfi Coast does not have an airport, a large port, nor a train station so it is a little tricky to get to. This is probably a good things or visitor numbers would be out of control!

Most people make their way to Naples, either by train or plane and then on to Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast.

You can get the fast train from Rome to Naples very easily but then you do have to change to a local train to get down to Sorrento and then catch a taxi, a bus or book a private driver from there.

The Amalfi Coast is very beautiful but with one narrow coastal road in summer it can be very congested and difficult to get around. There are also a lot of stairs!

Some people choose to stay in Sorrento and explore the coast on day trips . Sorrento is a lovely town and relatively flat with good transport connections to the islands as well as Pompeii and other attractions.

Where to stay on the Amalfi Coast

For couples : Buca Di Bacco has an amazing, much-photographed restaurant with lovely rooms with views over the iconic town. It is located next to much-coveted Le Sirenuse but is much more affordable. Il San Pietro di Positano is our pick for a splurge and is truly a dream to stay at.

For families and groups :  Groups should check out Residence Villa Yiara which is a gorgeous family-run hotel with incredible views and budget-friendly prices. Villa Celentano Apartments Hotel is also a great option as they have well-priced rooms with kitchenettes.

If you would prefer a private villa then check out Claudia’s Fairytale , a simply gorgeous 4 bedroom house that has hosted celebrities and dignitaries such as US Presidents.

Solo : Hotel Dimora Fornillo is a modest small hotel with spacious rooms and beautiful patios that overlook the sea. There is a path right down to the sea and breakfast is included.

Fun things to do on the Amalfi Coast

• Explore the coastline on a luxury cruise
• A private tour of Pompeii and incredible Herculaneum – some say even better than Pompeii
• Join a private walking tour of the hidden alleys high up in Ravello 
• Visit the beautiful,cool and lush Mills Nature Reserve – cool and lush
• Head over to the island of Capri for the day
• A private Wine Tour to Irpinia
• attend a ceramics workshop with a local potter

Tour the Amalfi Coast with a private driver and car

Day 15 – 18 : florence.

Florence is the capital of Tuscany and thought by many to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

Famous for its magnificent Duomo, the Statue of David, the ancient Ponte Vecchio bridge and heaving with works by Michelangelo and other artists it is also the gateway to the beautiful green hills of Tuscany and the many wineries, villages and sun-baked olive groves that call it home.

The Duomo of Santa Maria dell’Assunta in Florence is a perfect example of Roman-Pisan Gothic architecture and is completely made of white marble. It’s designed in the shape of a Latin cross with an interior constructed of black, white, and grey marble.

Lucca is just one hour from Florence so it is really worth a day trip to this charming town, and then head to nearby Pisa as well.

Pisa of course is famous for the leaning Tower of Pisa , the huge cathedral, and the Baptistery. Don’t forget the obligatory selfie holding up the tower!

Other day trips from Tuscany that are worth mentioning are visiting the towns of Sienna or region of Chianti or even a visit to Cinque Terre.

How to get to Florence

Florence is well connected with the rest of Italy and Europe and is easy to get to by air or on the ground.

Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola is the International Airport and is located just 4kms from the city centre. The airport is usually serviced by some of Europe’s best-known airlines including Alitalia, Lufthansa, British Airways and KLM.

Florence is also a key stop on the Italian Rail network . It has good connections with Rome, which is only 90 minutes away and the main cities in the north.

It is also possible to arrive by road. Eurolines has the most extensive bus network and is generally reliable and well priced. If driving then the main road artery, the A1, links the north and south of the country running right past Florence.

To get from the Amalfi Coast to Florence you can either reverse your trip back to Rome and continue from there ( train is the most enjoyable) or fly from Naples.

Where to stay in Florence

For couples: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze is hard to beat and offer the impeccable standards of service and luxury that this brand is famous for. We also love San Firenze Suites and Spa with their wonderful Duomo views or beautiful Palazzo Castri 1874 with their lovely gardens.

For a great budget option check out BandB Firenze 8 Cittadella 8.

For families and groups: Groups love staying at The Legendary Giulia which is a sprawling Villa in the Tuscan countryside that has 4 bedrooms and a swimming pool as well! If you want to stay in the heart of Florence then Nutmeg is a 4 bedroom apartment right near the Arno River or Jacopo has 3 bedrooms with views over the famous Duomo and rooftops of the city.

Solo: Il Diospero B&B have modest rooms in their family palazzo and friendly home cooked meals and personal service. Hotel David is also worth a look with its great views, excellent service and a pretty garden to use as well.

Cool things to do in Florence

• Uffizi Gallery – VIP priority access!
• Enjoy the original Florentine Steak experience – heaps of fun!
• Join a small group walking tour – an Introduction to Florence  
• A private day trip to Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti
• Take a balloon ride over breathtaking Tuscany
• See Florence from the rooftops – get the best,hidden photo locations!
• Do a Chainti Wine and Food Safari
• A full day private tour to Cinque Terre
• do a wonderful Tuscan cooking class and learn to make Italian like Mama!
• go truffle hunting in the Chianti Hills

Day 18 -21 : Venice

Be sure to plan your arrival in Venice on a Vaporetto – a water bus, which is a great way to get a feel for the city and an exhilarating way to start. The boat will lead you down the Grand Canal towards your hotel, or somewhere near it and you will be speechless as you see the city around you.

After you have settled into your hotel head to Piazza San Marco and St Mark’s Square which is one of the most famous squares in the world. The Piazza houses remarkable buildings like St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace.

Head to Rialto Bridge, the oldest and most magical of Venice’s bridges and then simply stroll through the narrow streets around the area, with its many small canals, trattorias, wine bars, small shops and much more.

Be sure to visit Doge’s Palace with its exquisite rooms and decoration, its prison and the famous Bridge of Sighs. Then head to the most important religious edifice in Venice, the Basilica di San Marco.

After the Basilica, explore the Campanile. This structure is one of the most photographed in Venice and the Cathedral’s bell tower and is the symbol of the city.

Cross the Ponte di Rialto to reach the Rialto Market, one of the best in Venice and bustling with vendors selling produce and handicrafts. Some of the best tomatoes you will ever see, or smell!

If you are an art lover then the Gallerie dell’Accademia focuses on pre-nineteenth century art and is one of the largest in the world. Also be sure to visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection and Punta della Dogana.

The next day take a water bus to the Sestiere Cannaregio, which is located north of the Grand Canal. Get off at “Ferrovia” cross the Ponte delle Guglie and walk to the Jewish Ghetto , a fascinating and somewhat sobering area where the Jews were forced to live during the Venetian Republic.

We also recommend exploring Cannaregio with its charming little canals, pretty houses and churches. It is one of the most authentic areas in Venice and very charming. Fondamenta della Misericordia is also worth checking out especially in the evening when it can get very lively.

Of course no trip to Venice is complete without a Gondola ride which are especially romantic as the sunsets of course.

How to get to Venice

Venice is a series of small islands but it is very well connected to the mainland and other nearby islands. Being one of Europes most popular cities it is relatively easy to get to.

It is possible to fly from Florence to Venice but you will likely connect in Rome. Most people do the trip either by train or car.

Venice’s central train station, Venezia Santa Lucia railway station, connects the city with numerous countries and other Italian towns. Many people fly into Rome or Milan and catch the train to Venice from there. It is the easiest and most comfortable way of getting around Italy and a style of travel we highly recommend.

Check Rail Europe and/or Seat61 for timetables and bookings

Only a small part of Venice is accessible to motor vehicles so you have to leave your car in a parking garage such as  Garage San Marco or Garage Autorimessa Comunale , in Piazzale Roma.

Where to stay in Venice

For couples : The Gritti Palace hotel is considered one of the best in the world for good reason and it is also one of the most photographed, with its central location right on the Grand Canal.  For something cheaper, Hotel Antiche Figure is a small boutique hotel in a wonderful canal location with a small restaurant and bar and excellent service.

For families and groups :  Aqua Apartments are great for families as they have small kitchenettes where you can keep supplies and self-cater. Apollonia is a rather extraordinary grand Venetian home filled with Renaissance Art and with a roof terrace – it sleeps up to 7 in 3 bedrooms. For something even bigger check out Repubblica Heights , a huge 5 bedroom apartment that oozes the splendour of the Doge’s era in every room.

Solo : Charming House IQs have beautiful, designer suites in a converted Palazzo in a quiet spot near the Grand Canal. No crimson bedspreads here!

Cool Things to do in Venice

Best of Venice Tour – St. Marks Square, St. Marks Basilica & Campanile & more

Do a Doge’s Palace: Secret itinerariares Tour

Visit the islands of Burano, Murano and Torcello by boat

Sail, swim and cook in the Venetian Lagoon

Take a private class with a renowned glass artist

Relax in the cool gardens of Giardini della Biennale

Ride a Gondola with a Gondolier seranade

Spend a day in the sparkling Prosecco Hills!

Create a Carnivale mask with a master mask maker

With this Italy and Greece itinerary, you will spend 3 glorious weeks exploring two of the most interesting and most beautiful countries on the planet.

Of course, you can adjust it for a slower pace simply by extending a few places by a day or two – perhaps the Cinque Terra in Italy or Crete in Greece?

We guarantee you will have the trip of a lifetime and will cover some of the very best highlights for both countries that are on offer, and more.

 Salute & Yamas!  

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16 days / 15 nights, athens, ioannina, thessaloniki, istanbul, cappadocia.

3 Nights in Athens

Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.

Day 1 - Arrival in Athens

Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Athens

Athens Highlights Mythology Small Group Tour

Discover the myths behind the greatest landmarks in Athens. Learn about Greek gods and heroes, and discover what really hides behind ancient myths. At the same time visit the best landmarks and sites in Athens, such as the Acropolis (Parthenon, theater of Dionysus, temple of Athena Nike, temple of Erechtheion, and the sanctuary of Asclepius), Olympian Zeus’ temple, the Ancient Agora, and the temple of Hephaestus.

Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Athens

Indulge in local cuisine.

Olive oil, vegetables, fish, and feta are key ingredients in Greek cuisine. Fresh vegetables, honey, fish, lamb, and cheese are added to create typically Greek flavors. Tzatziki, souvlaki, gyros, dolmathakia, spanakopita, loukoumades, authentic Greek yogurt, and amygdalota are just a few options to be enjoyed in local cafes and restaurants. We've picked some of the most delicious food tours for you to choose from.

Athens by Night Food and Wine Tasting Private Tour

Seeking an extraordinary Greek culinary experience to tease your senses? Follow an expert food guide on a quest to discover Athens by night, and experience exquisite Athenian delicacies. Enjoy the best views of Athens after dusk and explore sophisticated eateries to devour the finest of authentic Greek cuisine, including the best souvlaki in town! And to top it all off? A wine tasting focused on indigenous local varieties (plus ouzo!)

Delicious Athens Food Small Group Tour

Eat your way through Athens! Discover Greek flavors and their history, with a walk through some of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods, rarely visited by tourists. Taste olive oils, Greek cheeses, tsipouro drink, honey, souvlaki, tapenades, baklava, Greek coffee, sweets, and a variety of Greek tapas.

The Great Eats and Streets Private Tour

Athens came together through a mixture of cultures across the centuries, and there’s still a lot of that history around, in the food as well as in the city's neighborhoods. This tour explores the city's complex heritage, and its effects on contemporary Greek culture and cuisine. 

Day 4 - Traveling to Ioannina by Private Transfer

Today you will leave Athens and travel to Ioannina. A driver will pick you up at your accommodation based on your preferred departure time and take you on a 4-hour journey to Ioannina. Please note this is a non-guided transfer.

3 Nights in Ioannina

Small but charming, Ioannina's history is closely linked to Ali Pasha, the ruthless and divisive provincial leader who made Ioannina into a center of Greek culture in the late 18th century, at great cost. Ioannina's castle, a lakeside Byzantine fortress with earlier elements, was made into a palace by Ali Pasha, with generous green spaces and historical monuments, mosques, and museums covering the town's cosmopolitan past. Ioannina's modern museums cover topics from its Christian, Islamic, and Jewish past, to Byzantine history and art, and the town's famed silversmiths. Lake Pamvotis is home to tiny Ioannina Island, which somehow manages to fit seven monasteries, forming Greece's third largest monastic community. Here, you'll also find the Museum of Ali Pasha, in the monastery where he was assassinated at the end of a failed rebellion against the Ottoman Empire.

Day 4 - Arrival in Ioannina

Upon arrival to Ioannina, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodations.

Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Ioannina

Zagori Sightseeing Private Tour

As the Zagori region and National Park is quite a huge area, hoping into a mini van is a perfect way to see as many places as possible within one day. You will have the chance to learn about this region from your guide and to see the natural wonders and traditional villages of the area.

Day 6 - Your Second Full Day in Ioannina

Pop by the castle and fethiye mosque.

Enrich your visit in Ioannina with a relaxing walk through the Castle, a crossroads of cultures and religions. The castle and Fethiye Mosque are where the Byzantine and Ottoman heritage of the town is the clearest. Enter one of the castle's gates, and explore every corner, taking in signs of Ioannina's time as an intellectual center as you visit its citadels, museums, and tomb.

Day 7 - Traveling to Thessaloniki by Private Transfer

Today your driver will pick you up at your accommodation in Ioannina and take you to Thessaloniki. The direct transfer takes around 3 hours. Please note this is a non guided transfer. For additional fee we can arrange a stop on the way. We highly recommend visiting the village of Metsovo, so called Greek Switzerland, Meteora or Royal Tomb of Phillip II, UNESCO listed site.

3 Nights in Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city, offers urban sophistication and cultural diversity. With its ancient roots, Thessaloniki, also known as Saloniki and Salonica, offers a delightful amalgam of historical, culinary, and cultural activities. Due to its prime location, this city has had many rulers, from the Venetians to the Saracens to the Ottomans. For centuries, Thessaloniki was Byzantium's second largest and wealthiest city, after Constantinople, and it even served as a "co-capital" at times. Thessaloniki was a haven for Sephardic Jews fleeing Spanish persecution, a group that for a time formed most of the city's population, and which is still visible in the city's diverse architecture, music, and cuisine. While compact in size, Thessaloniki is home to 15 UNESCO-listed monuments. The expansive harbor is its heart and soul, offering magnificent views of Thermaikos Bay. This urban waterfront is the center of many of Thessaloniki’s happenings, as well as the location of its iconic landmarks, such as the White Tower and the Monument of Alexander the Great. Its former warehouses now house the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Thessaloniki Museum of Photography, and the Thessaloniki Cinema Museum.

Day 7 - Arrival in Thessaloniki

Upon arrival to Thessaloniki, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodations.

Day 8 - Your First Full Day in Thessaloniki

The nymph of the thermaic gulf.

Cosmopolitan Thessaloniki has been a crossroad of Greek, Jewish, Turkish, and Slavic cultures for millennia (indeed, in the late 19th century, it was even the only European city where Jews were in the majority). Let a local guide show you around, and help you discover why the city was a treasure fought over countless times, as you take in the White Tower, Galerius Arch, Rotunda monument, Old Town, and city walls, where you can take in a memorable view of the city!

Thessaloniki Walking Half Day Private Tour

Thessaloniki Evening Private Tour

Discover vibrant neighborhoods of Thessaloniki, including their lifestyles and culture. Visit a mix of modern and local venues and enjoy interesting stories shared by your local host. Learn how to make a cocktail with local ingredients, and taste unique, specially selected drinks and bites. This experience is perfect for relaxation after a busy day and for those who like exploring the city in the evening.

Day 9 - Your Second Full Day in Thessaloniki

A thousand years of unique architecture.

Thessaloniki offers many religious sights, especially its showy and well-preserved Byzantine churches, from as far back as the 8th century. One of the oldest churches in the country, Thessaloniki's UNESCO-listed Agia Sofia is also the city's largest church. The church of Saint Nicholas Orphanos is beloved for its frescoes, which cover the whole interior. One of the most valuable examples of Byzantine architecture is the church of Panagia Chalkeon, built near the city's ancient agora. During your visit in Thessaloniki, be sure to visit at least one Byzantine temple, to get to know the city's culture and history.

Day 10 - Traveling to Istanbul by Airplane

To get from Thessaloniki to Istanbul, the best option is to book a flight on a low-cost airline. On your day of departure, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and bring you to the airport for your flight. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival: Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. If you prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. Moreover, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

3 Nights in Istanbul

Istanbul is a sprawling city of 15+ million people that contains two continents and a wealth of history. From the Byzantines to the Ottoman Empire to the modern Turkish Republic, Istanbul has seen the churn of history throughout the centuries, and the remains of all these eras live alongside the ever-changing face of contemporary Turkey. The Hagia Sophia, formerly a Byzantine church, an Ottoman mosque, and a Republic-era museum, before reverting recently to a mosque, is Istanbul’s most significant site, located in the heart of Sultanahmet. The hip districts of Beyoglu, Besiktas, and Kadikoy overflow with restaurants and cafes, and the central boulevard Istiklal Caddesi serves as the main artery for shopping, food, and nightlife in this buzzing city.

Day 10 - Arrival in Istanbul

After your flight arrives at Istanbul Airport, a driver will meet you at the airport to bring you to your accommodation. The drive from the airport lasts around 50 minutes.

Day 11 - Your First Full Day in Istanbul

The Best of Istanbul in a Day

Today you are about to delve into the rich history of a city like no other, a city that sits at the crossroads of East and West, the enchanting Istanbul. During this 6-hour tour, you will visit top-rated attractions, such as the Topkapi Palace and Hagia Sophia. Moreover, you will marvel at breathtaking views of the city from some of the best viewpoints in Istanbul. End the tour among locals in one of the world's most famous markets, the colorful and historic Grand Bazaar.

Day 12 - Your Second Full Day in Istanbul

Tasting istanbul.

At the crossroads of East and West, Istanbul is one of the most fascinating and diverse cities. With influences from the many different people that co-existed within the Ottoman Empire for centuries on end, Turkish food is equally diverse. Apart from world-renowned savory and sweet specialties, such as kebabs or baklava, Turkish cuisine features countless other delicious dishes. One of the best ways to get to know Istanbul is through the city's unique tastes during a 5-hour private tour that will take your tastebuds on an unparalleled culinary trip, focusing on the city's unique desserts but also some savory staples. Alternatively, join a small-group cooking class to learn how to prepare some staple Turkish specialties and bring your new skills back home with you, keeping Istanbul in your heart forever in the most delicious way.

Istanbul Small Group Cooking Class

It’s time to roll up your sleeves and tie on a cooking apron. During this 3-hour cooking class, you will learn how to prepare five delicious authentic Turkish recipes and then enjoy them for lunch or dinner in a traditional restaurant with a glass or two of local wine. This is undoubtedly one of the most fulfilling cultural experiences you can enjoy in Istanbul.

Sweet Tooth of Istanbul Private Walking Tour

Explore Istanbul's diverse culinary scene on a tour spanning its various districts, even venturing to the Asian side. Delight in authentic local flavors, particularly the rich variety of desserts. Led by an experienced guide, absorb the city's history, culture, and gastronomy as you stroll through its vibrant streets. Immerse yourself in the city's flavors, stories, and sights on this enriching excursion.

Day 13 - Traveling to Cappadocia by Airplane

To get from Istanbul to Cappadocia, the best option is to take a flight on a low-cost airline. On your day of departure, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and bring you to the airport for your flight. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival: Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. If you prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flight is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

3 Nights in Cappadocia

With a name drawn from the region’s ancient Christian history, Cappadocia combines stunning natural landscapes with a complex and still-visible history. Cave churches throughout the region boast still-colorful frescos and a shady respite from the Cappadocia sunshine. In Kaymakli and Derinkuyu, underground cities twist and turn in a knot of hidden hallways, preserved throughout hundreds of years. Above ground, the volcanic landscape seems to change every few miles, curling into stunning new rock formations and undulating hillsides around every turn. This is a perfect place to be in nature, with the quiet sounds of birdsong and wind filling the big open sky.

Day 13 - Arrival in Cappadocia

Upon your arrival at Kayseri Airport, a driver will be waiting for you to take you to your accommodation. The drive lasts about one hour.

Day 14 - Your First Full Day in Cappadocia

Hot Air Balloon Group Tour

A magical hot air balloon flight is an incredible experience to cherish for life. If you've always dreamt of peacefully gliding over the otherworldly scenery of Cappadocia at sunrise, this group tour is what you need to render your trip to Turkey all the more memorable.

Day 15 - Your Second Full Day in Cappadocia

Going Off-Road in Cappadocia

Exploring the stunning scenery of Cappadocia from an open-top jeep is one of the most fascinating things to do while there, and this is why we recommend booking an off-road jeep safari during your trip to this unique region. With views of dramatic valleys and visits to traditional villages and impressive churches, Cappadocia offers the perfect setting for an off-road experience like no other.

Day 16 - Departure Day

Sadly your time in Turkey draws to a close, but you'll have left on a high note! We'll arrange for a driver to transfer you to Kayseri Airport for the first leg of your journey home.

What's Included

Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes. Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.

Thessaloniki

Package excludes:.

• Flights to and from Europe.
• Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
• Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
• Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
• Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website

A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.

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How to see the best of Greece in 10 days

Sep 12, 2022 • 6 min read

Here's how to make the most of your trip to Greece in 10 days © borchee / Getty Images

You can see a lot of Greece in under two weeks and get a real feel for its history, ruins, beaches, food, late-night revelry and a few of its many iconic islands. Ferries link many of the best places to visit , and lazing away the hours on deck gazing at the passing turquoise water is an irresistible interlude to more storied sights. 

We’ve put together a detailed ten-day itinerary to show you the best Greece has to offer. Don’t have that much time available? Never fear – you can also curate your ideal locations from our picks to plan a blissful long weekend.

Day 1: start in Athens, the nation’s cradle

Don’t delay; climb the hill in the center of Athens to the magnificent Acropolis . Descending back into the land of mortals, wander the ancient Agora neighborhood before joining the merry mobs hopping from one taverna to another in the  Plaka  district . For extra credit, pause at some point at the extraordinary Acropolis Museum .

Go from Athens to Mykonos: Catch one of the many ferries that make the run from Piraeus , the main port of Athens, to Mykonos. The fast times are on speedy hydrofoils, while the slower runs are on traditional boats, with their broad and sunny decks.

How to get around Greece

Day 2: sail the Aegean to Mykonos

Burn off your pre-trip stress on the island of Mykonos . One of Europe’s fabled party destinations (St Tropez and Ibiza are rivals), this small island has just enough to keep you occupied by day. Explore the maze of covered lanes, boutiques and flower-bedecked cafes in the old town of Hora . Head to nearby beaches for your first dip in the ever-blue Aegean. But save some energy for well after dark when the notorious clubs like to party until dawn – or later.

Go from Mykonos to Delos: Boats to Delos make the run in a quick 30 minutes starting in the morning. 

Day 3: walk with the ancient Greeks in Delos

Fight off any after-effects of the night before and catch a morning boat to Delos , the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. The entire island is a sacred shrine – ruins stretch across the sunbaked landscape. Let your imagination run wild as you reconstruct this once magnificent center in your mind. Make the quick return to Mykonos by boat and cool off at a beach. Then get lost in Hora until you stumble upon the perfect seafood dinner.

Go from Mykonos to Paros: Several ferries a day make the run in about one hour.

Day 4: relax on Paros

Something of a ferry hub for the Cyclades, Paros – the group of islands that in many ways defines Greece – literally has something for everyone. Flower-draped tavernas in the port town of Parikia make great post-ferry lunch spots.

Get a rental car and drive the circumference of the island. This can be an all-day adventure and includes plenty of beach access along the east coast. The island is also noted for its produce – especially the tomatoes – so enjoy something delicious in the oh-so-cute mountain village of Lefkes or the locally popular beachside town of Aliki.

Go from Paros to Antiparos: Car ferries link the adjoining islands in under 15 minutes.

Day 5: slow down on Antiparos

Almost touching its much larger neighbor, the diminutive island of Antiparos really is the anti-Paros. Parts of the island qualify as sleepy, and there’s an unhurried vibe across its narrow, windy roads. Take the quick boat ride to Despotiko, a restored ancient sanctuary, then enjoy a seafood feast in Agios Georgios at a waterfront taverna. If you’re feeling sporty, join the windsurfers taking advantage of some of the most reliable winds in Greece.

Go from Paros to Santorini: Ferries take 2–3 hours.

Day 6: join the throngs on Santorini

With its polychromatic cliffs soaring above its drowned caldera, Santorini  is the definition of a ‘Greek island’ for many. Steep and narrow lanes are lined with brilliantly whitewashed houses topped with cerulean domes. Beaches dot the curving coast, and gentle hiking paths follow the island’s spine, offering sweeping views. Sunsets are mesmerizing. Take in the spectacle from tiny hillside Oia , which offers a choice of tavernas serving deeply traditional Greek fare (expect grilled meats, creamy tzatziki and more).

Go from Santorini to Crete: There’s usually one speedy ferry daily, making the two-hour run to Iraklio in Crete.

Day 7: get lost in Greece’s best palace at Knossos

The island of Crete is so big that it almost feels like its own country. The main city of Iraklio is best enjoyed for a quick lunch in a café and as a place to secure a rental car. Then charge south for barely 20 minutes to one of the top ancient sites in a nation of ancient sites. The Palace of Knossos was built by the Minoans and is a vast and somewhat restored ruin that can easily absorb half a day or more. If you have time to take a tour, there are more than a dozen wineries nearby that make the excellent local wines you’ll enjoy with every meal.

Go from Iraklio to Hania: Rental car prices on Crete are competitive, and distances are manageable. The run between the island’s two main cities takes only two hours, although endless stops and diversions to admire incredible views can greatly extend that .

Day 8: revel in the stunning beauty of Crete

Crete’s second city of Hania is really the island’s first city in the hearts of those in the know. The old town and harbor combine the legacies of the Minoans, the ancient Greeks, the Venetians and countless other influences from occupiers and others who just happened to sail by. The food here is extraordinary, and the chefs put Crete’s fabled produce to remarkable use. Two excellent detours are the absorbing ancient port town of Rethymno and the grand and glittery Orthodox churches in the hills, such as Moni Arkadiou .

Go from Hania to Elafonisi: Driving direct will take about two hours, but, as always, detours and myriad excuses to pause and enjoy the scenery will extend that greatly.

Day 9: hit the beaches of Crete

The Samaria Gorge is the most famous of southern Crete’s many gorge walks, which start high in the craggy hills and follow often-lush, stream-fed canyons down to little villages and beaches. If the crowds at Samaria are daunting, consider the Agia Irini Gorge instead. Finish your day at sublime Elafonisi Beach , where the sand has a pinkish hue in a certain light, and the swimming is superb.

Go from Hania to Athens: Frequent flights to Athens take under an hour from Crete’s second-largest airport.

Day 10: stroll around Athens

The Acropolis is never far from view as you stroll the compact and endlessly fascinating center of Athens. Catch the changing of the guard at the center of government (and Athens) in Syntagma Square . Choose from sights such as the antiquity-stuffed Benaki Museum , the lush National Gardens , the ornate Hadrian’s Arch and the grandiose Temple of Olympian Zeus .

Finish your time in Greece with a languid session in the upscale neighborhood of Kolonaki and cafe-lined Plateia Kolonakiou.

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Golf Talk Today: U.S. Open’s fantastic energy, the best PGA Tour players arrive for 3rd major

The year's third major championship finally begins this week as the U.S. Open brings the best players to Pinehurst to compete.

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Share All sharing options for: Golf Talk Today: U.S. Open’s fantastic energy, the best PGA Tour players arrive for 3rd major

Welcome to Playing Through’s new morning ritual — Golf Talk Today.

Each morning will feature a Golf Talk Today, where the crew will discuss various elements throughout the PGA Tour , LPGA, LIV Golf, and more.

In this third installment, let’s discuss the U.S. Open and who will play as we gear up for an exciting week of golf. After Scottie Scheffler owned The Memorial Tournament , what could happen this week at Pinehurst?

So brew a pot of coffee, grab some breakfast, and settle in as we discuss the top stories in professional golf.

Who’s in the 2024 U.S. Open field?

Adam Scott is keeping his historic major championship alive. He will make his 92nd consecutive major start. After The Memorial, the Aussie was one of six players added to complete the field.

He became exempt when the late Grayson Murray was removed to determine the Top 60. Scott finished T9 in 2014 at Pinehurst and T28 in 2005 at this venue.

The 124th U.S. Open field is now complete! — U.S. Open (@usopengolf) June 10, 2024

Robert MacIntyre, who recently won the RBC Canadian Open, became the No. 41 ranked player in the Official World Golf Rankings. It will be his third start.

The remaining four players from final qualifying were added: Sergio Garcia, amateur Brendan Valdes, Otto Black and Maxwell Moldovan.

In total, 156 players are competing in the event.

How much money has Scottie Scheffler won this year?

Scottie Scheffler won his fifth tournament for the 2024 season and his third Signature Event. How much money has World No. 1 earned this season ahead of the U.S. Open ?

Scheffler has won $24,024,553, and the season is only halfway through. The No. 2 player on the money list is Xander Schauffele, with $11,597,071. Scheffler has won $12,427,482 more than Schauffele.

PGA Tour moment to recognize

Adam Hadwin finished solo third behind Collin Morikawa and Scheffler at The Memorial. That third place qualified him for the Open Championship later this summer.

The field continues to take shape. Adam Hadwin earns his ticket to The 152nd Open, courtesy of his third-place finish in the Memorial Tournament presented by Workday. pic.twitter.com/60mwyfyPzg — The Open (@TheOpen) June 9, 2024

Updates from the professional golf world

Linnea Strom fired off a final-round 11-under 60 on Sunday at the ShopRite LPGA Classic at Seaview to win her first LPGA event. She finished at 14-under and defeated Megan Khang and Ayaka Furue by one shot.

Linn Grant came from 11 shots back to win the Volvo Car Scandinavian Mixed event. She defeated Sebastian Soderberg, who held an eight-shot lead coming into the final round. However, he shot a 5-over 77 on Sunday, which opened the door for Grant.

She carded a 7-under 65 with seven birdies. Grant won this event two years ago and became the first woman in DP World Tour history. Now, she has two Scandinavian Mixed titles on her resume.

Ernie Els held off Steve Stricker in a playoff to take down the hometown hero. Stricker missed a 3-foot putt to extend the playoff. This win marks Els' second straight Champions Tour victory.

Carlos Ortiz won his first LIV Golf tournament at LIV Houston. The Torque GC member defeated Cleeks’ Adrian Meronk by one shot after he carded a 5-under 67 to get to 15-under total. However, Meronk and his teammates took home their first team title at 3-under. They won by two strokes.

ICYMI: Other top stories from Playing Through

Check out these stories:

U.S. Open: 3 bold predictions for season’s third major at Pinehurst No. 2

• Payne Stewart Kids Golf Foundation creates fun trivia game as part of U.S. Open fundraising efforts

DP World Tour sees history: Linn Grant wins Sweden event thanks to Sebastian Soderberg collapse

Father’s Day Gift Guide 2024: 10 golf items that we love and Dad will, too

Savannah Leigh Richardson is a golf staff writer for SB Nation’s Playing Through. For more golf coverage, be sure to follow us @_PlayingThrough on all major social platforms. You can also follow her on Twitter @SportsGirlSL and Instagram @savannah_leigh_sports.

Next Up In Golf

• Reigning U.S. Open champion Wyndham Clark gives eye-popping report on Pinehurst’s greens
• PGA Tour legend Padraig Harrington inducted into Hall of Fame; here are his 5 best moments
• Adam Scott among 2024 U.S. Open field, extending impressive major streak to 92 straight
• The Memorial prize money payout for PGA Tour players, Scottie Scheffler wins astonishing $4 million
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Liv Morgan ‘Revenge Tour’ in Full Force

Noelle perry | may 28, 2024.

Here are the highlights from last night’s Raw :

10.) Gunther, Damian Priest, and Drew McIntyre discuss the future of the World Heavyweight Championship

Ludwig Kaiser introduced the new King of the Ring, Gunther, who won the title after beating Randy Orton at this past Saturday’s King and Queen of the Ring.

With this victory, Gunther also earned the opportunity to challenge the World Heavyweight Champion at SummerSlam. He commended the current champion, Damian Priest, for his leadership in The Judgment Day, but complained that the World Heavyweight Championship lacks prestige because Priest won it by taking a shortcut.

Priest would not let that slide. He and his Judgment Day teammates, Finn Balor and JD McDonagh, interrupted the new King immediately to refute his claims.

Priest pointed out the hypocrisy of accusing someone of taking a shortcut when Gunther won the King of the Ring match via pinfall without actually pinning Orton’s shoulders to the mat. Additionally, the “shortcut” in question was cashing in the Money in the Bank contract, which was earned in a ladder match that Priest won cleanly. Priest threatened to teach Gunther a lesson, and Gunther welcomed him to try, as he has not felt challenged by an opponent in a long time. The two alluded to Gunther’s World Heavyweight Championship match at SummerSlam, and were interrupted by Drew McIntyre.

The Scottish Warrior was not happy about Gunther and Priest assuming that Priest would still be champion by SummerSlam. Priest will defend his title against McIntyre at Clash at the Castle next month, and will only face Gunther at SummerSlam if he can first make it past this battle. McIntyre called them out for acting like Priest being champion by SummerSlam was a foregone conclusion, and Gunther took this as his cue to leave. McIntyre addressed the champion directly, explaining that with the Glasgow crowd on his side at Clash at the Castle, and the current disjointed state of The Judgment Day, Priest’s chances of retaining the title were slim. McIntyre’s attempts to get under Priest’s skin were in vain, as Priest saw right through it and turned the tables, successfully getting a reaction out of McIntyre. He continued to poke the bear, but before McIntyre could strike, the conversation was interrupted once again by Braun Strowman.

Strowman had been causing problems for The Judgment Day over the past few weeks, and McDonagh was tasked with fixing the Strowman problem in a one-on-one match. Prior to the beginning of the match, Strowman asserted his dominance by cutting off the leader of The Judgment Day mid-sentence, and stared him down.

9.) Braun Strowman plows through JD McDonagh and The Judgment Day

JD McDonagh was forced to bite off more than he could chew when ordered to take down Braun Strowman.

Throughout the match, Strowman manhandled McDonagh. The Irish Ace struggled to gain any sort of traction, despite the presence of Finn Balor at ringside. Nevertheless, he was resilient enough to keep the match going, something many of Strowman’s opponents have failed to do. McDonagh did finally manage to use Strowman’s momentum against him, diving out of the way and clipping his knee as Strowman charged towards McDonagh in the corner. McDonagh continued targeting Strowman’s knee, but it still wasn’t enough to keep the big man down. Balor attempted to distract the referee, but strowman picked him up and tossed him. Carlito also ran in to help McDonagh, but was quickly neutralized.

Strowman won the match, but Carlito and Balor immediately descended on him and attacked. While Strowman was outnumbered, he was far from outmatched, and effortlessly threw the two off of him. McDonagh attempted to hit Strowman with a chair, but it did not have any effect besides making Strowman angrier. Strowman chased McDonagh backstage, and continued to hunt him down for the rest of the night.

8.) Ricochet barely cleared for Ilja Dragunov rematch

After his conversation with Ilja Dragunov about a rematch was interrupted by a spear from Bron Breakker, Ricochet was finally medically cleared to compete. He told Raw General Manager Adam Pearce that he wanted to face Breakker that night, but Pearce informed him that Breakker was suspended for his actions. However, Ricochet was granted the rematch he requested against Dragunov.

Though Ricochet was medically cleared, his ribs were clearly still in rough shape and held him back. The injury did not stop him from delivering an exciting performance, by any means, and he still put up a great fight against Dragunov. Dragunov had previously beaten Ricochet in an exhilarating match during the first round of the King of the Ring tournament. This was the reason Breakker attacked Ricochet in the first place, as he was upset they were selected for the tournament and he wasn’t. It was also why Breakker ignored his suspension and attacked Ricochet last night, interrupting the match with a spear and causing it to end in disqualification.

Dragunov tried to fight back against Breakker, but received a spear himself. Pearce ran out to reprimand Breakker, but Breakker did not seem to care.

7.) The Final Testament displays their power

The New Day approached World Tag Team Champions Awesome Truth about a title shot, but The Miz and R-Truth denied them and made a speedy exit. Seeing this, Karrion Kross came over to talk to Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston.

Over the last couple of weeks, Kross has been attempting to drive a wedge between The New Day, to no avail. Kingston asked him to quit the mind games and cut to the chase by challenging them to a match, but he incorrectly assumed Kross’s motive. Kross was not trying to fight The New Day, but help Woods step out of Kingston’s shadow. He invited Woods to watch the Authors of Pain in their upcoming match to see how The Final Testament can benefit his career. Woods not only declined, but laughed in his face, and challenged AOP to a match next week.

In their match, the Authors of Pain made short work of The Creed Brothers. Brutus and Julius could barely get any offense in against Akam and Rezar, and one of their few attempts was thwarted by a distraction at ringside. As they set up for the Brutus Ball, Scarlett attacked Ivy Nile, taking their focus away from the match. This ensured the victory for AOP, but they probably could have gotten the job done without any dirty tactics, albeit a tad bit slower.

6.) Sheamus and Ludwig Kaiser come to blows

Sheamus spoke for the first time since his loss to Gunther in the first round of the King of the Ring tournament.

His loss was due in part to interference from Gunther’s crony, Ludwig Kaiser. Sheamus was at peace with the interference, but he was also injured during the match, and Kaiser continued to insult him while he sat at home nursing the injury. This, Sheamus could not stand for, and he could not wait to get his hands on him.

Kaiser popped up on the titantron to argue that Gunther was the only person responsible for Sheamus’s loss. Sheamus ran backstage to hunt down Kaiser, but Kaiser saw him coming and ambushed him. The two brawled from backstage out to the entrance ramp, and it took a team of officials to separate them.

5.) Lyra Valkyria defeats Kairi Sane

Following her devastating loss to Nia Jax in the final round of the Queen of the Ring tournament this past Saturday, Lyra Valkyria took on Kairi Sane, who was accompanied by her Damage CTRL teammate Dakota Kai. Despite being severely banged up, Valkyria still managed to put up a fight. Her ribs were especially vulnerable after being subjected to Jax’s annihilator on Saturday, and Sane took full advantage of the weakness. Valkyria continued to push through the pain, and successfully took down Sane.

Backstage, Sane and Kai approached Iyo Sky with their tails between their legs. Valkyria eliminated Sky from the Queen of the Ring tournament, making this her second victory over Damage CTRL. Sky was enraged, and tore apart the room, smashing everything she could get her hands on.

4.) The Judgment Day support Carlito against LWO

Rey Mysterio took on Carlito after he attacked and injured Mysterio’s LWO teammate, Cruz del Toro, last week. Mysterio was accompanied to the ring by Zelina Vega and Dragon Lee. Carlito entered unaccompanied, and was disappointed that the judgment day did not come out with him. He overpowered Mysterio for much of the match, even without the additional support, but struggled to get the job done. Finn Balor did end up making a surprise appearance once Mysterio gained the upper hand, but it was too late to make a difference.

After Mysterio won the match, he grabbed Balor and laid him out on the announcer’s table, setting him up for the high-flying Dragon Lee. Before Lee could jump, Damian Priest showed up to defend Balor, single handedly taking out both Lee and Mysterio. While he was quick to come to Carlito’s and Balor’s aid, Priest was annoyed that he had to pick up their slack because they could not take care of the problem on their own, a recurring theme for The Judgment Day recently.

3.) Otis punished by Chad Gable

Ahead of Otis’s match against Bronson Reed, Chad Gable chewed out Akira Tozawa for not being at King and Queen of the Ring, where Gable lost the triple threat match for the Intercontinental title against Reed and Champion Sami Zayn. Gable also scolded Otis for causing him to lose the match, and said that this match against Reed was his shot at redemption.

During the match, Gable coached Otis by berating him while he was down. When Otis did begin to pick up momentum, he got Reed in perfect position for the caterpillar, a move which Gable detests. Gable protested from outside the ring, stopping Otis in his tracks. Otis stood as Gable dealt his verbal abuse, giving Reed ample time to collect himself and strike back. Gable’s coaching cost Otis the match, but he blamed Otis for attempting the silly offense in the first place.

After this most recent loss in a string of Alpha Academy disappointments, Gable called the rest of the group out to witness the public shaming of Otis. He took off his belt and instructed Otis to bend over so that he could whip him. Gable raised his arm, but Maxxine Dupri grabbed him, stopping him in his tracks. In response, Gable ejected her from the ring. He forced Tozawa to stay and watch. Before Gable could get back to the matter at hand, Sami Zayn’s music hit. Gable warned Zayn to stay out of Alpha Academy business, but the Intercontinental Champion continued. He called Gable a weak little man, manipulating his way into opportunities but falling short and blaming everyone but himself. Gable dug his heels in, continuing to blame Otis, and raised the belt once again. This time, Zayn intercepted and snatched it away.

Zayn then spoke directly to Otis, telling him once again that he should stop listening to Gable, and start listening to the people in the audience who love and support him. Gable stops Zayn with a barrage of fists. After leaving Zayn beaten in the ring, Gable started to leave. Reluctantly, Tozawa followed, but Otis remained stuck in his place, looking back and forth between his mentor, still hurling insults, and Zayn, who just took a beating in his defense. After contemplating, he slowly followed Gable, but struggled to take his eyes off Zayn.

2.) Sonya Deville tries to help Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark

Cathy Kelley interviewed Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark, the number one contenders for the Women’s Tag Team Championships. Stark suggested inviting the current champions, Jade Cargill and Bianca Belair, to Raw next week so that they could properly introduce themselves ahead of their match. Sonya Deville interrupted to tell them that while they talk as though they’re already champions, they won’t win without her help. Baszler got defensive, but Deville said the issue was not their abilities, but rather that the locker room does not respect them.

They refused to hear anymore and walked away, but were stopped by Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn. Fyre and Dawn pointed out that Baszler and Stark have never beaten them, and made it very clear that they don’t believe they can, proving Deville’s point.

1.) Liv Morgan continues her revenge tour

This past Saturday and King and Queen of the Ring, Liv Morgan challenged Becky Lynch for the Women’s World Championship.

Morgan had previously stated that she was on a revenge tour, seeking to take away everything Rhea Ripley holds dear after Ripley injured her, taking away nine months of Morgan’s career. Morgan had already returned the favor, injuring Ripley’s shoulder in a backstage brawl and forcing her to vacate the Women’s World Championship. However, it was not good enough that Ripley did not hold the title, Morgan needed to have it for herself. Becky Lynch was the woman standing in her way.

In what appeared to be an attempt to avenge his Mami and block Morgan from achieving her goal, Dominik Mysterio interfered in the match on Saturday. He slid a steel chair into the ring towards Lynch, but the challenger took advantage of the weapon instead, and won the match as a result. Lynch was incensed, and invoked her rematch clause immediately. Morgan was fine with this, as she still wanted to prove that she could beat Lynch fair and square, and was deserving of the title.

The rematch was a steel cage match, a stipulation that would limit outside interference like what occurred in the first match. However, this did not stop Mysterio from trying. He opened the door of the steel cage to allow Lynch to escape, which would have won her the match. Finn Balor and JD McDonagh ran out to stop him, but Mysterio insisted that he had to fix the mistake he made on Saturday. Braun Strowman, who had been chasing McDonagh since their match earlier in the night ended, finally caught up to him. He chased McDonagh and Balor around the outside of the cage and out of the arena. In his pursuit, Strowman knocked Mysterio into the door of the steel cage, slamming it shut on an escaping Lynch. The impact of the door to Lynch’s face knocked her out, allowing Morgan to crawl through the door without any hindrance. She retained her championship, once again with Mysterio’s unintentional assist.

In celebration, Morgan grabbed the exasperated Mysterio and planted a forceful kiss on his lips. While he did not appear to reciprocate, Rhea Ripley will still not likely be pleased with the direction Morgan’s revenge tour has taken.

NOELLE PERRY

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Dublin, Ohio • USA

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PGA Tour reports ‘progress’ without details in meeting with Saudi wealth fund leaders

Rory McIlroy, of Northern Ireland, gestures after putting on the 17th green during the first round of the Memorial golf tournament, Thursday, June 6, 2024, in Dublin, Ohio. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)

PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan pauses while speaking about the death of PGA player Grayson Murray during the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament at Colonial Country Club in Fort Worth, Texas, Saturday, May 25, 2024. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

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The PGA Tour reported progress without details from a face-to-face meeting between its negotiating committee and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia as it tries to work toward a deal.

“We want to get this right, and we are approaching discussions with careful consideration for our players, our fans, our partners and the game’s future,” the tour said in a statement released Saturday morning.

The meeting in New York on Friday evening involved the “transaction committee” of PGA Tour Enterprises and Yasir Al-Rumayyan, the governor of the Saudi Arabian sovereign wealth fund that pays for rival LIV Golf.

Rory McIlroy is on the committee and said he was encouraged by the progress. He referred to the three-hour meeting as “very productive, very constructive, very collaborative.”

“Definitely things are heading in the right direction,” McIlroy said after the third round of the Memorial. He participated on a video call. “A lot of progress was made. I can’t really say much more than that, but it was really positive.”

PGA Tour Enterprises is the commercial group that came out of the framework agreement announced a year ago among the PGA Tour, PIF and the European tour.

PGA Tour Enterprises brought on Strategic Sports Group, which invested an initial $1.5 billion earlier this year. Negotiations are ongoing to bring in PIF as a minority investor, and there has been more activity than previously believed.

McIlroy, who joined Tiger Woods and Adam Scott on the transaction committee, said it has been meeting with PIF representatives every Monday, Wednesday and Friday over the last couple of weeks. The tour referred to negotiations as “accelerated” in recent months.

Friday’s meeting was the first in-person discussion since players and board members met with Al-Rumayyan in the Bahamas the day after The Players Championship in March.

The tour said the committee and PIF have been meeting “multiple times weekly to work through potential deal terms and come to a shared vision on the future of professional golf.” It said only that “more progress was made” in New York.

“We remain committed to these negotiations, which require working through complex considerations to best position golf for global growth,” the tour said.

McIlroy said those multiple meetings are more about financials, such as the investment possibilities of PIF and SSG.

“But I think last night was more talking about the future of the game and the vision, and that was where I thought there was a lot of progress that was made,” he said.

Woods and Scott are on the full PGA Tour Enterprises board, along with player directors Jordan Spieth, Webb Simpson, Patrick Cantlay and Peter Malnati.

McIlroy resigned from the PGA Tour board last November, and there was an unsuccessful attempt by Simpson to have McIlroy replace him. McIlroy, the strongest voice who has gone from heavy criticism of LIV to being more willing to compromise, is part of the transaction committee and ultimately does not have a vote.

But he has relationships with both sides of the table. McIlroy had said he would be more in listen mode when the business leaders — Al-Rumayyan and his team at PIF, a PGA Tour Enterprises committee that includes four SSG investors — sorted through details.

“We’re there to maybe give a perspective from player’s point of view,” McIlroy had said Thursday. “But, I mean, this is a negotiation about an investment into PGA Tour Enterprises. This is ‘big boy’ stuff, and I’ll certainly be doing more listening than I will be talking.”

He said Saturday he did weigh in on occasion.

“The mute button was turned off a couple of times to chime in,” he said.

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

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3 Day Greece Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 3 day Greece tour with TourRadar. Choose from 57 trips with 85 customer reviews, that range from one day up to 3 days.

57 Greece 3 day tour packages with 85 reviews

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3 Day Island Tour: Santorini, Mykonos to Explore the Best of Cyclades

"Mykonos was amazing and very laid back, and we loved having time on our own to do what we wanted to do." Carolyn, traveled in May 2023

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural
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3 Day Private Tour in Mycenae, Olympia, Delphi with Foof Tasting in Olympia

"The sites are all must-see! The hotels, both in Arachova and Meteora, were clean and cozy." Vallerie, traveled in August 2019

Discovering the Saronic gulf

"They go above and beyond all expectations. I cannot recommend this Family run Tour Company enough." MrsAspaPucciarelli, traveled in September 2022

• Food & Culinary
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The Peloponnese wine roads (3 days - small group/escorted/cultural/culinary

"The quality of the tour, the variety of wineries and historical sites we visited, and the knowledge they had of the area was simply outstanding." Carey, traveled in September 2022

Three Days Classical Tour from Athens: Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia, Delphi

"This is a great tour to get introduced to Greece. The hotels were nice, with decent food options in good places." Juan, traveled in June 2022

• Mountain Hikes

Peloponnese and Saronic Islands

Highlights of the Mainland: Delphi and Meteora

"Informative guides and spectacular destinations. Well managed despite needing to change groups." Elena, traveled in June 2023

Epidaurus, Mycenae, Olympia and Delphi Three Days Tour from Athens

"We saw heaps of ancient sites. I would recommend this tour accommodation excellent." Lindsay, traveled in July 2023

Prehistoric Tour of Greece - 3 days

"Beautiful views, great tour guide, fun experience. Would recommend trip, very good value" Terry, traveled in October 2023

Delphi and Meteora Three Days Tour from Athens

"Offer menu choices not disgusting buffets. We noticed on part of the tour lunch was at a local eatery." Janet, traveled in October 2019

What people love about 3 Day Greece Tours

The overall experience was nice with having private drivers, however a few things could have been explained a bit better. When arriving at the port, a gate assignment would have helped for the ferry. Maybe a link to the Sea Jet website? The motel in Mykonos was vary dated, with broken furniture, and light fixtures in the room. It was also a very long way from anything if you were walking. It was quite remote, and probably one I would have never considered as the port and restaurants/ shops were all 2.5 miles away.

Our driver George made all the difference in the success of the tour.

One of the best tours I have ever done. I am of Greek heritage but they revealed places to me that were a complete unknown. As a tour company they were unbelievable in their service, generosity of time and knowledge. You cannot find a better tour operator in Greece. Their knowledge of the Pelopponese is unsurpassable. They go above and beyond all expectations. I cannot recommend this Family run Tour Company enough. I thank them from the bottom of my heart for the breathtaking experiences they provided whilst on tour with them.

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2024 U.S. Open fantasy golf rankings, picks, strategy: Back Keegan Bradley, avoid Jon Rahm

Eric cohen locked in his pga tour fantasy golf rankings, picks and lineups for the u.s. open 2024 at pinehurst no. 2.

The year's third major has arrived, with the 2024 U.S. Open beginning on Thursday from Pinehurst No. 2. We're approaching a decade since Rory McIlroy's last major win, but many 2024 U.S. Open fantasy golf lineups will feature the Irishman considering his history at this event. McIlroy has top-10s in his last five starts, including a runner-up to Wyndham Clark last year. McIlroy is one of a trio of golfers at +1000 in the latest 2024 U.S. Open odds alongside Xander Schauffele and Bryson DeChambeau.

They are all looking up to the incomparable Scottie Scheffler (+275). However, while Scheffler has won five of his last eight starts on tour, he has just one victory over his last nine major appearances. Considering his short golf odds, should you fade him in your 2024 U.S. Open fantasy golf picks? Before making any 2024 U.S. Open fantasy golf picks, you have to see the U.S. Open fantasy golf rankings from SportsLine handicapper Eric Cohen .

Cohen is an avid golf bettor who correctly predicted the pre-tournament outright winner of the 2024 Masters (Scottie Scheffler, +350), Players Championship (Scheffler +550), 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic (Rickie Fowler +1400), 2023 PGA Championship (Brooks Koepka +2000), 2023 Honda Classic (Chris Kirk +3500), 2022 Open Championship (Cameron Smith +2200), 2022 U.S. Open (Matt Fitzpatrick +2500), and 2022 Phoenix Open (Scheffler's first career victory at +2800).

Cohen is a contributor to SportsLine's YouTube shows including "Early Edge" and is the host of "The Early Wedge" golf show. Anyone who has followed Cohen's predictions has made positive gains on their golf picks.

Now, Cohen has ranked his top golfers for the 2024 U.S. Open.  Cohen's picks are only available at SportsLine .

2024 U.S. Open expert picks

For the U.S. Open 2024, Cohen is backing a 60-1 shot in Keegan Bradley among his top 10 in the 2024 U.S. Open fantasy golf rankings. The 2011 PGA Champion last had a top-10 at a major at this event in 2022. It was his second top-10 at the U.S. Open, following a fourth-place finish in 2014. That placement is notable because it came the last time that Pinehurst No. 2 hosted the major. Bradley was one of just three golfers in the 156-player field to card three rounds below par for the tournament.

This year, Bradley enters the 2024 U.S. Open in with his best form, recording three top 25s over his last four events. That includes a second-place finish last month at the Charles Schwab, which is Bradley's second runner-up this year. Bradley's game is well-suited for Pinehurst as he ranks among the top 12 on tour in both total driving (94) and total driving efficiency (18), so he should have a field day on the eight holes that play over 450 yards. With his course history and recent success on tour, Bradley shouldn't be overlooked with U.S. Open 2024 fantasy golf picks.

On the other hand, Cohen is fading Jon Rahm, the 2021 U.S. Open champion. Things haven't gone too well for Rahm since he left the PGA Tour in Dec. 2023. He enters the 2024 U.S. Open off his first missed cut at a major since 2019, as he failed to make the weekend at this year's PGA Championship, and he also had a career-worst Masters finish earlier this year, finishing in 45th place. Rahm also withdrew from his event in the week prior to heading to Pinehurst, so he's unlikely to be playing at 100% due to a foot injury.

"The 2021 U.S. Open winner at Torrey Pines has top-25 finishes in six of his eight Opens, so it's conceivable to see him play well this week," Cohen told SportsLine. "But at these odds with how he's fared against the two most competitive fields he's seen this year, I just can't see the value in playing Rahm as an outright at Pinehurst."  See all of Cohen's U.S. Open picks at SportsLine . 

How to set 2024 U.S. Open fantasy golf lineups

For this week, Cohen is backing several underdogs in his 2024 U.S. Open fantasy golf picks, including a staggering 130-1 longshot whose recent U.S. Open record is labeled as "phenomenal."  See who it is, and get all of Cohen's fantasy golf picks, at SportsLine . 

Who wins the 2024 U.S. Open, and who are the top players to target for your PGA fantasy golf picks?  Visit SportsLine now to get Eric Cohen's fantasy golf rankings, all from the fantasy expert who has called eight outright winners since 2022 , and find out.

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