10 Day Itinerary - Best Islands to Explore and Best Scenery in Greece

  • Day 1: Arrival in Santorini
    Estimated Time and Distance from Airport/Port to Hotel

    Begin your trip in the beautiful island of Santorini. Known for its picturesque towns, beautiful sunsets, and iconic white-washed buildings, Santorini is the perfect first stop for your city experiences journey.

  • Day 2: Exploring Oia and Fira
    45 minutes (11 miles) from Hotel to Oia

    Start your day early and head to Oia to enjoy some breathtaking views of the caldera. Walk around the town's narrow streets, visit some art galleries, and enjoy some authentic Greek cuisine. In the afternoon, explore Fira, the vibrant capital of Santorini. Visit the Archeological Museum of Santorini or check some souvenir stores for some local products.

  • Day 3: Akrotiri Archeological Site
    25 minutes (5 miles) from Hotel to Akrotiri

    On day three, visit the Akrotiri Archeological Site. It's a great place to learn about Minoan civilization and the history of the Greek islands. Some important structures to visit are the Bronze Age settlement and the Akrotiri Lighthouse, both well-preserved.

  • Day 4: Ferry to Mykonos
    2 hours and 45 minutes (93 miles) from Santorini to Mykonos

    Take an early morning ferry to Mykonos, the second destination on your itinerary. Known for its iconic windmills, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos is the perfect place for partying and relaxing at the same time.

  • Day 5: Little Venice and Paraportiani Church
    10 minutes (0.5 miles) from Hotel to Little Venice

    Explore Little Venice's colorful houses and narrow streets. This neighborhood offers a beautiful view of the Mykonos sunset. Visit Paraportiani Church, one of the most photographed churches in Mykonos, right by the sea.

  • Day 6: Delos Island Day Trip
    1 hour (2.5 miles) from Mykonos to Delos Island

    Take a day trip to Delos Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the ruins of ancient Delos, including the impressive Terrace of Lion and the Agora of the Competaliasts. Spend the rest of the day exploring the island's diverse flora and fauna and take stunning photos of the remnants of Ancient Greece.

  • Day 7: Ferry to Athens
    2 hours and 45 minutes (94 miles) from Mykonos to Athens

    Depart from Mykonos and head to Athens, the capital of Greece. Athens is full of vibrant culture and history, making it the perfect place for sightseeing and getting to know Greece's heritage. Head to your hotel and prepare for exploring the city.

  • Day 8: Acropolis and Parthenon
    15 minutes (2 miles) from Hotel to Acropolis

    Visit the Acropolis, an ancient citadel situated on a rocky hill above Athens. It includes the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. Get knowledgeable insights into one of the most significant sites of Greece's ancient history, and make some unforgettable memories.

  • Day 9: Monastiraki Flea Market and Plaka District
    15 minutes (2 miles) from Hotel to Monastiraki

    Experience Monastiraki's bazaar atmosphere, where you can find everything from handmade sandals, antiques, to traditional food. The Plaka district is the oldest neighborhood in Athens, full of cafes, souvenir shops, and noteworthy architecture - an ideal way to experience the vibrant Athenian lifestyle firsthand.

  • Day 10: National Archaeological Museum and Departure
    25 minutes (2.5 miles) from Hotel to the National Archaeological Museum

    Visit the National Archaeological Museum, one of the most significant museums in Athens. Included in its collection are prehistoric artifacts, treasures from Mycenae and the Cycladic Islands, and exhibits from the Greek Bronze Age. Afterward, head to the airport for your flight back home, taking with you fond memories of Greece's unique city experiences.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Oia (2 hours, Free)
  • Fira (2 hours, Free)
  • Akrotiri Archeological Site (3 hours, 10 €)
  • Little Venice (1 hour, Free)
  • Paraportiani Church (1 hour, Free)
  • Delos Island Day Trip (6 hours, 20 € Ferry Ticket + 12 € Entrance Fee)
  • Acropolis and Parthenon (2 hours, 30 € Entrance Fee)
  • Monastiraki Flea Market and Plaka District (2 hours, Free)
  • National Archaeological Museum (3 hours, 15 €)
  • Total Estimated Costs: 107 €

Transportation

Transportation in and between islands is primarily by ferry, while Athens has an extensive public transportation system, including metro, bus, and tram. Athens's primary airport is the Athens International Airport (ATH), 20 kilometers from the city center, and can be accessed by metro, suburban rail, or bus, costing around 10€ and taking approximately 45 minutes. Buses and taxis are easily accessible on all islands and can be hired at affordable rates for short distances. Car rental is also available, however, it's relatively expensive.

Useful tips

If you have more time in Greece, consider adding Mykonos day trip to Tinos Island, a 40-minute ferry ride from Mykonos. You could also add a visit to the ancient Corinth Canal or day trip to the neighboring island of Naxos. For fewer days, consider visiting only two locations, Santorini and Athens or Mykonos and Athens.

Airports

Athens International Airport (ATH), located in the city of Spata, is Greece's busiest airport and the primary airport for most travelers flying to Greece. Located approximately 20 kilometers to the east of Athens, the airport is easily accessible via public transportation or car, with frequent trains, buses, and taxis all available from the airport.

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