10-Day Itinerary for Exploring Greece

  • Day 1: Athens
    Spend a day exploring the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Athens. The Acropolis is a must-see with its iconic Parthenon temple, as well as the ancient Agora and the Temple of Olympian Zeus. There are also plenty of museums and galleries to visit, like the National Archaeological Museum.
  • Day 2: Delphi
    Take a day trip to Delphi to see the incredible archaeological site dedicated to the god Apollo, including the Temple of Apollo, the Sanctuary of Athena Pronaia, and the Theater. Don't miss the stunning views of the valley and Mount Parnassus.
  • Day 3: Santorini
    Fly to the stunning island of Santorini to explore the white-washed villages, enjoy the famous sunsets, and visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri. Don't forget to indulge in local food and wine, and relax on one of the island's many beaches.
  • Day 4: Mykonos
    Hop on a ferry to the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, known for its vibrant nightlife, luxurious hotels, and stunning beaches. Spend the day exploring the charming town, Little Venice, and the iconic windmills.
  • Day 5: Crete
    Fly to Crete and spend the day soaking up the Greek island culture. Visit the Palace of Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on Crete, explore the scenic coastal towns, and indulge in fresh seafood and local wine.
  • Day 6: Peloponnese
    Rent a car and drive to the Peloponnese region to visit the ancient city of Epidaurus with its famous theater and the ancient citadel of Mycenae, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stop by the picturesque seaport town of Nafplio on the way back.
  • Day 7: Thessaloniki
    Fly to Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city, and explore the Byzantine and Ottoman architecture, visit the Archaeological Museum, and walk along the waterfront promenade. Don't miss the chance to taste traditional regional dishes.
  • Day 8: Meteora
    Take a day trip to Meteora and explore the stunning monasteries perched on top of towering rock formations. The views are truly breathtaking and will leave you speechless.
  • Day 9: Mount Olympus
    Embark on a hike to the mythical home of the Greek gods, Mount Olympus. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a beginner, there are plenty of trails for all levels of fitness. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and snacks.
  • Day 10: Hydra
    Take a ferry to the car-free island of Hydra and explore the charming town, visit the historic mansions-turned-museums, and spend time lounging on the beaches. Enjoy a traditional Greek meal before heading back to Athens.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Acropolis (2 hours, €30)
  • Temple of Apollo (2 hours, €20)
  • Akrotiri (3 hours, €15)
  • Palace of Knossos (2 hours, €20)
  • Mycenae (3 hours, €25)
  • Metora (4 hours, €10)
  • Mount Olympus Hike (6 hours, free)
  • Hydra (4 hours, €20) Total Estimated Costs: €140

    Transportation

    Getting around Greece is easy with a combination of domestic flights, ferries, and car rentals available. Flights between islands can be expensive, but ferries are a more affordable option with frequent departures. Renting a car is a great way to explore the mainland, but be aware of narrow roads and occasional tolls. Expect to spend around €50-100 for domestic flights, €20-30 for ferry trips, and €20-50 per day for car rentals.

    Useful Tips

    If you have more time, consider visiting some of the lesser-known Greek islands like Milos, Naxos, or Paros. If you have less time, consider skipping Santorini or Mykonos, as they can both be quite crowded and expensive during peak season.

    Airports

    Athens International Airport (ATH) is the main airport in Greece and is located approximately 33 km southeast of Athens city center. Thessaloniki Airport "Macedonia" (SKG) is located approximately 14 km southeast of Thessaloniki city center. Both airports offer a variety of domestic and international flights with several airlines.

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