5-Day Itinerary for Greece

1. Day 1: Athens
   Estimated time and distance from the previous location: 30 minutes (21.5km) from Athens Airport

   Explore the ancient Acropolis and its breathtaking Parthenon. Discover the rich history of Athens by visiting the Acropolis Museum, Temple of Olympian Zeus, National Archaeological Museum, Plaka District, and Ancient Agora. Finish off the day with delicious Greek cuisine at a local taverna.

2. Day 2: Mykonos
   Estimated time and distance from the previous location: 2 hours (178km) by ferry from Athens

   Stroll around the scenic town of Mykonos with its white-painted houses and vibrant nightlife. Swim at the popular beaches like Paradise and Super Paradise. Head to Little Venice for romantic sunset views, and enjoy a night out at world-famous clubs like Cavo Paradiso and Jackie O' Beach Club.

3. Day 3: Santorini
   Estimated time and distance from the previous location: 3 hours (150km) by ferry from Mykonos

   Experience the stunning beauty of Santorini, famous for its volcanic beaches, blue-domed churches, and picturesque sunsets. Visit Oia, the most popular town with stunning views of the caldera. Check out the Akrotiri archaeological site, hike the trail from Fira to Oia, or relax at the Red Beach. Finish the day with local cuisine like tomato fritters and fresh seafood.

4. Day 4: Crete
   Estimated time and distance from the previous location: 2 hours and 45 minutes (150km) by ferry from Santorini

   Visit Europe's oldest city, Knossos, and explore its ancient Minoan palace complex. Learn about the island's history at the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, Rethymnon Old Town, and Venetian Fortezza. Relax at some of the best beaches in Greece, like Balos, Elafonisi, or Falassarna. Savor Cretan cuisine like Dakos, grilled meats, and loukoumades.

5. Day 5: Thessaloniki
   Estimated time and distance from the previous location: 5 hours (503km) by ferry from Crete or 1 hour and 15 minutes (654km) by plane from Heraklion

   Experience the cultural hub of Northern Greece, Thessaloniki, with its charming old town, famous food markets, and Byzantine churches. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Paleochristian and Byzantine Monuments of Thessaloniki, Aristotelous Square, and the White Tower. Try traditional dishes like Souvlaki, moussaka, and bougatsa. Finish the night by enjoying some of the city's famous nightlife.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Acropolis Museum (1-2 hours, €10): The museum displays unique artifacts and information on the Acropolis of Athens.
• Parthenon (1-2 hours, €20): Marvel at the iconic ancient temple dedicated to Athena.
• National Archaeological Museum (2-3 hours, €15): The museum contains the largest collection of Greek antiquities in the world.
• Mykonos Beaches (half-day, free): Paradise and Super Paradise beaches are the most popular, and offer good settings for swimming and sunbathing.
• Oia Town (2-3 hours, free): This picturesque town has breathtaking views of the caldera’s turquoise waters and painted houses.
• Knossos (2-3 hours, €15): Marvel at the ancient ruins of the Minoan palace complex of the mythical King Minos.
• Heraklion Archaeological Museum (2-3 hours, €10): Learn about the history of ancient Crete and the Minoan civilization.
• Thessaloniki White Tower (1-2 hours, €4): A Byzantine and Ottoman-era building that offers panoramic views of the city.
• Dinner in a local taverna (€15-25): Taste the delicious Greek cuisine of Athens, Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Thessaloniki.
Total Estimated Costs: €99-123

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can visit other Greek islands such as Paros, Corfu, or Rhodes. You can also take a day trip to Delphi, Meteora, or Epidaurus from Athens. If you have less time, consider doing a shorter itinerary of Athens and Santorini. To save money on food, try local street food or visit restaurants slightly outside the main tourist areas. Be sure to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.